From V12 to Hybrid: My First Week with the Ferrari 296 GTB (and McLaren 720S Comparison)

Hi everyone,

Just picked up my 296 GTB on Monday after trading in my GTC4Lusso V12.

I’ll start by saying the V12 sounded absolutely phenomenal — there’s really nothing quite like it, and I do miss that soundtrack. But the 296 is simply a more exciting and engaging car to drive. The handling is on another level, and after living with the Lusso for a while, I’d grown a bit tired of its “grand tourer” feel — beautiful car, but a bit boat-like in the corners.

Now, I’ve added the 296 alongside my McLaren 720S Spider. I know some might say they’re too similar to own at the same time, but honestly, I don’t mind. I love the 720S and was curious how Ferrari’s new generation of mid-engined hybrids stacked up — so I decided to make the jump.

Picked the car up in Minnesota and drove straight home to Chicago. Since Monday, it’s basically been my daily driver — already put about 1,000 miles on it.

My first impression was that the 720S felt leagues ahead — lighter, more visceral, and with a better soundtrack. But as I’ve spent more time in the 296, it’s really grown on me. The build quality and interior are in another league, and the car feels far more solidly put together (to be fair, the McLaren is four years older). The 296 has this perfect blend of refinement and excitement that really makes it special.

At this point, I don’t think I could give up either — they’re different enough to appreciate for what each does best.

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