Epic Ferrari Showdown: SF90 vs. Purosangue vs. 812 GTS vs. 296 GTB in a Drag Race
Car enthusiasts, get ready for an astonishing matchup! In a thrilling CarWow episode, we witness a spectacular drag race featuring four of Ferrari's finest: the new Ferrari Purosangue, 812 GTS, 296 GTB, and SF90. Hosted by none other than Matt Watson, this high-octane showdown aims to determine which prancing horse reigns supreme over a quarter-mile track. Let's dive into the details!
Meet the Contenders
The excitement kicks off with Matt introducing the lineup, starting with the Ferrari Purosangue. Contrary to its SUV appearance, Ferrari insists it’s not an SUV. However, it packs a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine, churning out 725 horsepower and 716 Nm of torque. It’s a hefty beast, weighing over two tons, and carries a weighty price tag starting at £313,000, with this specific one costing £450,000 due to various options.
Next in line, we have the Ferrari 812 GTS, a rear-wheel-drive roadster powered by another 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12. This one boasts 800 horsepower and 718 Nm of torque. Despite having rear-wheel drive, which makes it challenging to launch, it has a significant performance pedigree. The 812 GTS also weighs around 1.6 tons and starts at £293,000.
The third contender is the Ferrari 296 GTB, replete with modern technology. This car features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine combined with a hybrid system, producing an impressive 830 horsepower and 740 Nm of torque. Weighing in at just under 1.5 tons, it’s lighter and more technologically advanced compared to the other naturally aspirated competitors.
Lastly, we have the formidable Ferrari SF90. Featuring a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a hybrid system, this powerhouse delivers a jaw-dropping 1,000 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. The SF90 also incorporates a hybrid system on the rear axle and two electric motors on the front axle, allowing for advanced torque vectoring and remarkable performance dynamics. Weighing 1,570 kg, this engineering marvel originally costs around £376,000.
Sound Check
Before hitting the track, the drivers perform a sound check. The Purosangue's V12 roars impressively, but the 812 GTS, boasting a Novitec exhaust, steals the show with its glorious symphony. The 296 GTB's V6 doesn’t match the iconic naturally aspirated notes but holds its own. The SF90’s V8, despite its prowess, doesn’t impress as much in the sound department, leaving much to be desired compared to its competitors.
The Drag Race
The anticipation builds as the cars line up for the standing quarter-mile drag race. The first run sees a close finish between the Purosangue and the 812 GTS, with the 296 GTB struggling due to a poor launch. The SF90, living up to its mighty specs, takes the lead. After analyzing the launches, it’s clear that both the Purosangue and SF90’s four-wheel drive offer more stability compared to the 812 and 296’s rear-wheel-drive configurations.
The second run sees a much-improved launch from the 296 GTB, though it’s still edged out by the SF90. Each car shows off its straight-line speed, but once again, the SF90 emerges victorious with blistering speed and superior traction management.
Rolling Race and Brake Test
The showdown continues with a rolling race from 30 mph to half a mile. The 812 and 296, despite having similar power outputs, see the 296 GTB edging out the former due to its advanced hybrid system. However, the SF90 remains unbeatable, with nothing but a slight gap behind it filled by the 296 GTB.
The final competition is a brake test from 100 mph. In this crucial trial, less weight proves beneficial, with the SF90 stopping in the shortest distance followed closely by the 296 GTB and 812 GTS. The Purosangue, being the heaviest, takes longer to halt.
The Verdict
At the end of a thrilling series of high-speed events, the overall winner is the Ferrari SF90, thanks to its hybrid technologies and unmatched performance metrics. The 296 GTB takes a respectable second place, proving that Ferrari’s hybrid future is bright. The 812 GTS and Purosangue follow, showcasing the enduring appeal of Ferrari’s naturally aspirated V12 engines.
For those seeking more automotive excitement, be sure to check out the embedded video to witness this incredible ferrari showdown and much more on the CarWow channel.