Aston Martin DB7

vs

Ferrari California

UK vs Italy — 1994 vs 2008

Aston Martin DB7 (1994)
Ferrari California (2008)
Specifications
DB7 Vantage V12California
Horsepower420 hp453 hp
Torque400 lb-ft358 lb-ft
Engine Size5,935 cc4,297 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec3.8 sec
Top Speed185 mph193 mph
¼ Mile13.1 sec12.1 sec
Weight3,946 lbs3,825 lbs
Wheelbase2,591 mm2,670 mm
Length4,647 mm4,563 mm
Units Produced7,05214,000
Original MSRP$140,000$195,000
Value (Excellent)$100,000$160,000
Collectibility6/105/10
Rarity5/103/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1994 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage V12 brings stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 2008 Ferrari California answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1994 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage V12 versus 2008 Ferrari California is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2008 Ferrari California holds a clear advantage in raw power with 453 hp compared to 420 hp, a 33-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB7 uses a V12 DOHC displacing 5,935 cc, while the Ferrari California relies on a V8 DOHC with 4,297 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Ferrari California edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 2008 Ferrari California commands a significant premium over the 1994 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage V12, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.