France vs USA — 1961 vs 1965
| A110 Berlinette 1600S | Cobra 427 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,596 cc | 6,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 165 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 12.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,499 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,850 mm | 3,962 mm |
| Units Produced | 7,176 | 348 |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $4,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S counters with stronger collectibility, 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.
Putting the 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S against the 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus USA. The 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 138 hp, a 287-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alpine A110 uses a Inline-4 OHV Renault Gordini 1600 displacing 1,596 cc, while the Shelby Cobra relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 6,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 348 units built, the 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 is considerably scarcer than the Alpine A110's 7,176 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 commands a significant premium over the 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.