Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT
Compare the Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT. The Audi RS e-tron GT is £116,000 cheaper. The Ferrari 296 GTB is 0.2s quicker to 60mph. The Audi RS e-tron GT is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Ferrari 296 GTB is priced from £241,000, powered by a 3.0L V6 Hybrid, producing 819 hp, with 740 Nm of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 2.9s, a top speed of 205 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive. The Audi RS e-tron GT is priced from £125,000, powered by a Dual Electric Motors, producing 637 hp, with 830 Nm of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.1s, a top speed of 155 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
The Ferrari 296 GTB offers a 105-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol hybrid, returns around 35 mpg, is covered by a 7yr / unlimited mi warranty. The Audi RS e-tron GT offers a 405-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on electric, returns around 76 mpg, is covered by a 4yr / 50k mi warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Audi RS e-tron GT is £116,000 cheaper than its rival, both require around £0 per year in maintenance, the Audi RS e-tron GT is the more fuel-efficient choice, a full tank costs around £75 for the Ferrari 296 GTB and £15 for the Audi RS e-tron GT.
Driving Character: Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT
The Ferrari 296 GTB redefines mid-engine dynamics by integrating a hybrid system that provides instantaneous torque fill, effectively eliminating turbo lag. The chassis feels remarkably nimble, with the weight added by the battery and electric motor expertly masked by sophisticated suspension tuning. Steering is razor-sharp and communicative, allowing the driver to place the car with immense confidence. While the transition between electric power and the combustion engine is generally seamless, spirited driving reveals a character that demands a precise hand on the throttle to manage the immediate surge of combined hybrid torque.
The RS e-tron GT leverages 637 hp and instant electric torque to deliver breathtaking acceleration, pinning occupants to their seats with brutal efficiency. The low centre of gravity provided by the battery pack ensures the car remains impressively flat through corners, though the sheer weight of 5139 lbs is occasionally felt in tighter, technical transitions. It lacks the raw, emotive soundtrack of a combustion-engined rival, but compensates with a refined, futuristic chassis that makes covering ground effortless. The two-speed rear gearbox provides a unique mechanical feel, bridging the gap between electric immediacy and high-speed stability.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 296 GTB takes our 0-100 driving character grading, 93 against 78. Characteristic of the Ferrari 296 GTB: Sublime hybrid V6 chassis balance, widely rated among the best-handling Ferraris. For the Audi RS e-tron GT: Immense, silent electric acceleration with quattro-assured composure. In outright terms it is 819 hp against 637 — a 182 hp gap — and the Ferrari 296 GTB reaches 60 mph 0.2s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT
The cabin prioritises driver focus through a high-tech, cockpit-style layout. High-quality carbon fibre and premium leather define the interior, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and purposeful. The reliance on digital controls and haptic surfaces represents a significant departure from traditional analogue switchgear, which, while offering a modern and clean aesthetic, may feel less tactile for enthusiasts accustomed to physical buttons. Visibility is typical of a mid-engine exotic, with the digital instrument cluster providing all necessary telemetry without overwhelming the driver, successfully balancing technological advancement with essential driver-focused ergonomics.
The interior is a high-tech sanctuary, dominated by a driver-focused dashboard and the crisp Audi Virtual Cockpit. Sustainable materials are used throughout, reflecting a modern approach to luxury without compromising on build quality or feel. The digital interfaces are intuitive, though the reliance on touch-sensitive controls for certain functions can be less tactile than physical buttons while on the move. Space is ample for four adults, and the dual-screen setup creates a sophisticated, connected environment that feels perfectly suited for a high-performance electric tourer. It is a cabin that successfully blends traditional Audi craftsmanship with progressive, forward-thinking technology.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT takes our 0-100 interior & cabin grading, 78 against 86. Characteristic of the Ferrari 296 GTB: Driver-focused cabin, though haptic controls polarise reviewers. For the Audi RS e-tron GT: Premium, minimalist cabin with excellent tech integration.
Daily Usability: Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT
For a mid-engine supercar, the 296 GTB is surprisingly well-adapted to urban living, thanks in large part to its EV-only mode. Being able to creep silently through residential areas provides a level of refinement rarely found in this segment. The compact dimensions make it relatively easy to place on narrower roads, though the car’s very low ground clearance demands constant vigilance against steep driveways and deep kerbs. While rear visibility is admittedly restricted, the car handles the realities of city traffic with far more grace than its V8-powered predecessors.
Practicality is a strong suit for the RS e-tron GT, offering a 405L boot plus additional storage in the front trunk, making it an excellent daily prospect. The ride is firm in Dynamic mode but remains composed enough for long-distance cruising, absorbing motorway imperfections with ease. Charging is a simple affair, with fast-charging capabilities allowing for 80% replenishment in just over twenty minutes, significantly increasing the vehicle's real-world usability. It is a highly capable machine for routine errands and long-distance touring, provided the driver is aware of the low stance and the necessity of managing battery capacity on longer jaunts.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT takes our 0-100 daily usability grading, 68 against 80. Characteristic of the Ferrari 296 GTB: More usable daily than a 12Cilindri, with some EV-only running. For the Audi RS e-tron GT: Comfortable, quiet, effortless daily EV with real usability. that means 105 litres of boot space against 405, and everyday running costs that favour the Audi RS e-tron GT at the pumps.
Ownership: Ferrari 296 GTB vs Audi RS e-tron GT
Ferrari’s support network ensures that owning a 296 GTB remains a premium, discreet experience. The 7-year warranty and inclusive service plan are critical components that bolster confidence in a powertrain that incorporates significant hybrid complexity. While long-term durability regarding the electrical system remains less battle-tested than that of traditional internal combustion models, the brand's commitment to the longevity of the platform provides peace of mind. Running costs are competitive for the supercar class, and the high-tech appeal ensures it remains a desirable prospect on the secondary market.
Ownership of this EV is relatively straightforward, as the simplicity of the electric drivetrain results in lower annual maintenance costs than its internal combustion rivals. The four-year, 50k mile warranty provides a solid foundation for peace of mind, though long-term battery health remains a key consideration for high-mileage users. The RS e-tron GT benefits from the extensive Audi dealer and charging network, making it one of the most accessible high-performance EVs on the market. While residual values for luxury EVs remain volatile, the model’s performance and build quality help maintain a solid market position among modern, tech-focused buyers.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Audi RS e-tron GT takes our 0-100 ownership grading, 70 against 82. Characteristic of the Ferrari 296 GTB: Strong demand and Ferrari's modern reliability improvements. For the Audi RS e-tron GT: Low running costs typical of an EV, strong warranty coverage. On the wallet the two diverge at £241,000 versus £125,000 — a £116,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £0 against £1,000, and warranty cover of 7yr / unlimited mi versus 4yr / 50k mi.