Italy vs USA — 1968 vs 1963
| Dino 246 GT | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 195 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 167 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,418 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,381 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,340 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 4,235 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,761 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | $14,500 | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
Numbers favor the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Ferrari Dino 246 GT offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Ferrari Dino 246 GT versus 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 195 hp, a 76-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari Dino uses a V6 DOHC 24V displacing 2,418 cc, while the Shelby Cobra 289 relies on a V8 OHV with 4,727 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 7.1 seconds. The Shelby Cobra 289 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 231 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 654 units built, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari Dino's 3,761 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1968 Ferrari Dino 246 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.