Italy vs Italy — 1959 vs 1976
| 250 GT SWB Berlinetta | 512 BB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 202 lb-ft | 333 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 162 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 3,340 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 4,400 mm |
| Units Produced | 176 | 929 |
| Original MSRP | $13,500 | $83,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $12,000,000 | $550,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Ferrari has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta with the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1976 Ferrari 512 BB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 280 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta uses a V12 SOHC displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari 512 BB relies on a Flat-12 DOHC with 4,942 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. The Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1025 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 176 units built, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 512 BB's 929 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta commands a significant premium over the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.