Italy vs Italy — 1959 vs 1952
| 250 GT SWB Berlinetta | 212 Export Barchetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 202 lb-ft | 159 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 2,562 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 162 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 1,609 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,250 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 3,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 176 | 27 |
| Original MSRP | $13,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $12,000,000 | $8,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Ferrari has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta with the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 170 hp, a 110-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Ferrari 212 Export carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 706 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 27 units built, the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta's 176 examples.