F8 owner who is curious about 296 but….. | FerrariChat

F8 owner who is curious about 296 but…..

Discussion in '296' started by Tupper, Oct 11, 2025 at 9:22 AM.

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  1. Tupper

    Tupper Karting

    Joined:
    Jun 28, 2025
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    71
    Location:
    Chicago area
    I’m an F8 Tributo owner, new to Ferrari, and so far loving my experience.

    I am curious about the 296 GTB and have considered trading out of my F8 for one at some point in the future, but have some hesitation.

    I know the 296 is crazy fast, I did a few track laps in one last year.

    Concerns I have are what I’ve read online and in this very forum. What is the status of these issues:

    1. Battery dying/bricking: that seems to have occured in multiple cars. Is this still a problem?

    2. I watched a Carwow drag race where Mat Watson’s 296 kept having a “hybrid control system error” to his frustration. Do we know what that issue was or was that just a fluke with his car?

    My main concerns are hybrid/battery related issues that would ruin the ownership experience for me because I’d have my car at the shop more often than enjoying it.

    I like the design and really like how it drives. I’m also really enjoying my F8 experience.

    Thanks for anybody’s input
     
    jumpinjohn likes this.
  2. Jo Sta7

    Jo Sta7 F1 Veteran Rossa Subscribed

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    1 data point but I’ve had zero issues
     
    jm2, x z8, of2worlds and 1 other person like this.
  3. Silver007

    Silver007 Karting

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    May 12, 2022
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    Ditto. Zero issues. I love the car!
     
    x z8 likes this.
  4. rbobby

    rbobby Karting

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    Also one data point, no issues except for a parking sensor. I do want to say that as a mclaren owner, I feel like the ferrari ice powertrain is much better built. The little V6 is super efficient and feels light on its feet and not being overly stressed. Car never produces a lot of heat and hardly needs any gas. So I have a feeling that this is great for longevity. I have no idea what the battery side will do over time, but I'll be ready to take it on the chin when the time comes. Hopefully not too bad for a high volume car as technology progresses.
     
    of2worlds and x z8 like this.
  5. x z8

    x z8 Formula 3

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    Jeffrey
    Zero issues. I was nervous because of all the FUD. I am now more nervous with my V12. I bought a 2nd one. It’s that good.
     
    of2worlds and Jo Sta7 like this.
  6. jm2

    jm2 F1 World Champ Lifetime Rossa Owner

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    john
    1500 miles, no issues w/Batteries
     
    of2worlds likes this.
  7. ferrefeh

    ferrefeh Formula Junior Silver Subscribed

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    Feh H
    2200 miles on mine, zero issues
     
    jm2 likes this.
  8. Dcher

    Dcher Rookie

    Joined:
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    Full Name:
    David Cheresh
    3000 miles and absolutely perfect. I love the car more each day. I recommend replacing the stock tires with Cup R2 Michelins. They really help out with traction and cornering. I know they do no last very long but with the HP and suspension this car has it makes total sense to have compatible tires. The F8 is a beautiful car but if driving performance is your priority you will not go wrong with the 296 GTB.
     
    jm2 and Jo Sta7 like this.
  9. gzachary

    gzachary Formula Junior Rossa Subscribed Silver Subscribed

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    I have Pista, had F8, had 296GTB, have 296GTS. Happy I traded out of F8 into the 296 line. ( Keeping Pista. Pista as vehicle is tuned from a suspension and aero as higher performance than the F8 which is more cruising. ).

    zero problems with 296.
     
    rbobby, jm2 and Jo Sta7 like this.
  10. KL runner

    KL runner Formula Junior

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    Not in US

    Thinking the 296 has major battery issues because of a couple of reports is like thinking the world is flat because you are driving through the Great Plains or the Everglades
     
  11. rbobby

    rbobby Karting

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    Do you feel any difference in driving dynamics between gtb and gts? Pretty much same or do you feel the extra weight?
     
  12. mkraft3003

    mkraft3003 Formula 3 Silver Subscribed

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    If you love your F8 why are you thinking of changing? What are you hoping to gain? You can't go wrong with either car and It sounds like you should stick with what makes you happy. Just my .02.
     

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