Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

vs

Maserati 450S

Italy vs Italy — 1957 vs 1957

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa (1957)
Maserati 450S (1957)
Specifications
250 Testa Rossa450S
Horsepower300 hp400 hp
Torque203 lb-ft340 lb-ft
Engine Size2,953 cc4,477 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec4.5 sec
Top Speed168 mph180 mph
Weight1,764 lbs1,940 lbs
Wheelbase2,350 mm2,310 mm
Length4,030 mm4,200 mm
Units Produced3410
Value (Excellent)$45,000,000$9,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1957 Maserati 450S with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa offers lighter weight, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

In the world of Sports Racing Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa versus the 1957 Maserati 450S. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1957 Maserati 450S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 300 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa uses a V12 SOHC displacing 2,953 cc, while the Maserati 450S relies on a V8 DOHC with 4,477 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Maserati 450S edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 10 units built, the 1957 Maserati 450S is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa's 34 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa commands a significant premium over the 1957 Maserati 450S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.