Italy vs Italy — 1962 vs 1952
| 250 GTO Series I | 212 Export Barchetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 159 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 2,562 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.8 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,940 lbs | 1,609 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,250 mm |
| Length | 4,400 mm | 3,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 36 | 27 |
| Original MSRP | $18,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000,000 | $8,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta answers with lighter weight, 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 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I with the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I holds a clear advantage in raw power with 302 hp compared to 170 hp, a 132-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GTO uses a V12 SOHC (Colombo) displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari 212 Export relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,562 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I edges ahead at 5.8 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Ferrari 212 Export carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 331 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I commands a significant premium over the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.