Aston Martin DB5

vs

Triumph Italia 2000

UK vs UK — 1958 vs 1959

Aston Martin DB5 (1958)
Triumph Italia 2000 (1959)
Specifications
DB5 VantageItalia 2000 Vignale
Horsepower325 hp100 hp
Torque280 lb-ft112 lb-ft
Engine Size3,995 cc1,998 cc
0-60 mph7.1 sec11.0 sec
Top Speed145 mph110 mph
¼ Mile15.1 sec17.5 sec
Weight3,312 lbs2,249 lbs
Wheelbase2,489 mm2,337 mm
Length4,572 mm4,267 mm
Units Produced1,023329
Original MSRP$12,950—
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$150,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity7/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1959 Triumph Italia 2000 Vignale counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage and 1959 Triumph Italia 2000 Vignale stand as two of the most notable Grand Tourer cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 100 hp, a 225-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC (Tadek Marek) displacing 3,995 cc, while the Triumph Italia 2000 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage edges ahead at 7.1 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. The Triumph Italia 2000 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1063 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage commands a significant premium over the 1959 Triumph Italia 2000 Vignale, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.