Ferrari 250 GTO

vs

Ferrari 288 GTO

Italy vs Italy — 1962 vs 1984

Ferrari 250 GTO (1962)
Ferrari 288 GTO (1984)
Specifications
250 GTO Series I288 GTO GTO
Horsepower302 hp400 hp
Torque217 lb-ft366 lb-ft
Engine Size2,953 cc2,855 cc
0-60 mph5.8 sec4.9 sec
Top Speed174 mph189 mph
¼ Mile14.1 sec12.8 sec
Weight1,940 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,450 mm
Length4,400 mm4,290 mm
Units Produced36272
Original MSRP$18,000
Value (Excellent)$70,000,000$4,000,000
Collectibility10/105/10
Rarity10/109/10
The Verdict

The 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO GTO emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Within the Ferrari stable, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I and 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO GTO represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Ferrari badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO GTO holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 302 hp, a 98-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GTO uses a V12 SOHC (Colombo) displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari 288 GTO relies on a V8 DOHC 32V Twin-Turbo with 2,855 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO GTO edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 288 GTO's 272 examples. On the collector market, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I commands a significant premium over the 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO GTO, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.