FYI: Two Indonesian Ferrari enthusiasts transform the Ferrari 296 GTB into bespoke dream machines, tracing back to their roots in Japanese car tuning.
From Doubt to Admiration: The Ferrari 296 GTB Journey
Initially unveiled in 2021, the Ferrari 296 GTB has captivated fans worldwide, including myself, despite initial skepticism about its twin-turbo V6 engine. This engine choice connects back to Ferrari’s storied past, reminiscent of the beloved Dino, which has since gained iconic status despite its early criticisms. Moreover, the 296 GTB is a hybrid, a bold move that may cause purists to hesitate, yet it showcases Ferrari’s adeptness at merging traditional power with modern technology. This article is not just about my fascination with the GTB, but a close-up look at how two Indonesian owners have uniquely customized their Ferraris.
Indonesian Twist: A Tale of Two Ferraris
Both owners, known for their prowess in tuning Japanese legends like the GT-R, Supra, and NSX, have taken their expertise to new levels with the Italian exotic. Each car reflects a fusion of their rich tuning background and the luxurious elegance that Ferrari inherently represents.
The Black Beauty: Track-Ready Transformation
One owner opted for the ‘Assetto Fiorano’ package, transforming his black 296 GTB into a track-focused machine. This package enhances performance through reduced weight and improved aerodynamics, paired with custom touches like BBS LM wheels—beyond the standard 12-inch width to a custom-built 13 inches for maximum road grip. This Ferrari proudly wears wide 335/30ZR20 tires on the rear, marrying power with control. A distinctive nod to JDM culture is the golden Brembo calipers, reflecting aesthetics from the R35 Nissan GT-R.
The Graceful Gray: A Comfortable Cruiser
Meanwhile, Mr. Jedom from JEDM Garage infused a different spirit into his non-Fiorano gray 296 GTB. HRE 521 wheels coupled with Novitec’s aesthetic upgrades such as corner spoilers and carbon fiber accents mark this vehicle’s identity. Opting for comfort and style, this Ferrari retains a poised yet understated appearance, ready for both the daily drive and cross-country journeys.
Interiors: A Study in Contrasts
Inside these cars, the contrasts are striking. The black model is outfitted for the track with carbon fiber bucket seats and four-point harnesses, whereas the gray variant features luxurious vintage-inspired touches, like yellow stitching reminiscent of Daytona seats. Each interior reflects the owner’s vision: one favoring a racing cockpit reminiscent of motorsport, the other a comfy grand tourer.
Under the Hood: Ferrari’s Compact Marvel
Both vehicles share Ferrari’s advanced 296 engine—a compact yet powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. While it may lack the visual drama of older Ferrari engines, this modern marvel is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess, elegantly bolstered by electric assistance.
Which Would You Choose?
Now that you’ve peered into the world of these exceptional Ferraris, the choice boils down to personal preference: the aggressive, JDM-inspired black track monster or the sleek, comfort-driven gray cruiser with Novitec enhancements.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
