Fiat 8V

vs

Aston Martin DB2/4

Italy vs UK — 1952 vs 1950

Fiat 8V (1952)
Aston Martin DB2/4 (1950)
Specifications
8V Otto VuDB2/4 Mk III
Horsepower105 hp162 hp
Torque108 lb-ft175 lb-ft
Engine Size1,996 cc2,922 cc
0-60 mph12.0 sec9.3 sec
Top Speed118 mph118 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec17.1 sec
Weight2,315 lbs2,750 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,515 mm
Length3,930 mm4,166 mm
Units Produced114551
Original MSRP$6,500
Value (Excellent)$2,500,000$500,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity10/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1952 Fiat 8V Otto Vu brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III answers with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Italy and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1952 Fiat 8V Otto Vu versus 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 162 hp compared to 105 hp, a 57-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 8V uses a V8 OHV displacing 1,996 cc, while the Aston Martin DB2/4 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 2,922 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III edges ahead at 9.3 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The Fiat 8V carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 435 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 114 units built, the 1952 Fiat 8V Otto Vu is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin DB2/4's 551 examples. On the collector market, the 1952 Fiat 8V Otto Vu commands a significant premium over the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1952 Fiat 8V Otto Vu rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.