Italy vs Italy — 1957 vs 1958
| 3500 GT Touring | 250 California Spider LWB/SWB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 231 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,485 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,600 mm |
| Length | 4,480 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,226 | 106 |
| Original MSRP | — | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $18,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Touring offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Touring versus the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Touring producing 230 hp and the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB delivering 240 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati 3500 GT uses a Inline-6 DOHC 12V displacing 3,485 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 8.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 106 units built, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB is considerably scarcer than the Maserati 3500 GT's 2,226 examples. On the collector market, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB commands a significant premium over the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Touring, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.