Italy vs Italy — 1963 vs 1958
| 250 GT Lusso | 250 California Spider LWB/SWB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,600 mm |
| Length | 4,440 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 350 | 106 |
| Original MSRP | $13,275 | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,500,000 | $18,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso counters with 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.
Tracing the evolution of the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso from 1963 to 1958 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Ferrari. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso producing 240 hp and the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB delivering 240 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso uses a V12 SOHC displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari 250 California Spider relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Ferrari 250 California Spider carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 573 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB commands a significant premium over the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.