USA vs Italy — 1965 vs 1963
| GT350 R-Model | 2500 GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,467 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 2,094 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,350 mm |
| Units Produced | 562 | 12 |
| Original MSRP | $4,547 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1963 ATS 2500 GT answers with higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between USA and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model versus 1963 ATS 2500 GT is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 245 hp, a 61-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT350 uses a V8 OHV (Ford 289 Hi-Po) displacing 4,736 cc, while the ATS 2500 GT relies on a V8 DOHC with 2,467 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. The ATS 2500 GT carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 706 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 12 units built, the 1963 ATS 2500 GT is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT350's 562 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 ATS 2500 GT commands a significant premium over the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.