Faster than a Viper ACR!
Germany’s renowned Nurburgring is globally recognised as being amidst the toughest motor-racing circuits, with a restless surface, complex plan and its infamous 12.9-mile (20.8-kilometer) stretch granting it recognition through its enduring moniker – “The Green Nightmare”.
It definitely isn’t for the light-hearted, and that’s why the record times achieved on the North Loop (Nordschleife) of Nurburgring carry so much credence when compared to other circuits that are less demanding.
One incredible speed record was created in April by Germany’s Sport Auto magazine, the footage of which has been seen just recently. Under the direction of test driver Christian Gebhardt, a Ferrari 296 GTB emerged as the fastest street-legal Ferrari around the Nordschleife track.
It’s the inaugural Ferrari to record a lap on the Northern path of the Nurburgring in less than seven minutes, as the timing showed 6:58.7 minutes – almost two seconds quicker than the 488 Pista and about three over the Dodge Viper ACR fitted with an Extreme Aero Package who made a 7:01.3.
Mentioning the Ferrari 296 GTB that achieved the record time under 7 minutes is obligatory; clothed with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, forming semi-slicks and fitted additionally with the Assetto Fiorano pack, it’s much better equipped for combatting tracks than its mundane, primary model. This package grants adjustable shocks from Multimatic furthermore certain weight minimization characteristics making it more capable as a race weapon.
As per Ferrari, the 296 GTB has a dry weight of 1,470 kg (3,241 lbs), together with its hybrid system – uniting a mid-rear fitted 3.0-litre V6 and two electrical motors – which creates a total strength of 819 hp and 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque.
In addition, if the idea of gunning the V6 within a highly populated city is not desired, the Ferrari 296 GTB can also offer practicality with its electric-driving mode. Lasting up to 16 miles (25 kilometers), this setting allows for zero-emission travel due to its integrated 7.45 kWh power cell. Recharging can be achieved from an electric vehicle charger, as the vehicle is in fact a hybrid: meaning it can combine the aforementioned battery and the engine.
Once again, we eagerly look forward to recognizing your opinion on the video provided at the beginning of this page. Thus, after seeing it play out, kindly wander over to the comments section below and let us understand your assessment.
Source: Sport Auto (YouTube)
