Italy vs Italy — 1953 vs 1958
| Aurelia B24 Spider | 250 California Spider LWB/SWB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,451 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,381 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,600 mm |
| Length | 4,370 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 761 | 106 |
| Original MSRP | $5,500 | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $18,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider counters with better value, 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.
Among Grand Tourer enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider and 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 118 hp, a 122-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Aurelia uses a V6 OHV displacing 2,451 cc, while the Ferrari 250 California Spider relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 106 units built, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB is considerably scarcer than the Lancia Aurelia's 761 examples. On the collector market, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB commands a significant premium over the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.