Italy vs United Kingdom — 2019 vs 1998
| P72 Supercharged V8 | Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 700 hp | 800 hp |
| Torque | 608 lb-ft | 650 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,035 cc | 7,730 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 3.0 sec | 2.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 214 mph | 240 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 10.8 sec | 10.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 2,205 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,591 mm |
| Length | 4,617 mm | 4,481 mm |
| Units Produced | 72 | 3 |
| Original MSRP | $850,000 | $185,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2019 De Tomaso P72 Supercharged V8 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.
Putting the 2019 De Tomaso P72 Supercharged V8 against the 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Italy versus United Kingdom. The 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype holds a clear advantage in raw power with 800 hp compared to 700 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the De Tomaso P72 uses a V8 Supercharged displacing 5,035 cc, while the TVR Cerbera Speed 12 relies on a 7.7L V12 with 7,730 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype edges ahead at 2.9 seconds versus 3.0 seconds. The TVR Cerbera Speed 12 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 926 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3 units built, the 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12 Prototype is considerably scarcer than the De Tomaso P72's 72 examples.