Aston Martin DB4

vs

Ferrari 166 Inter

UK vs Italy — 1958 vs 1948

Aston Martin DB4 (1958)
Ferrari 166 Inter (1948)
Specifications
DB4 GT166 Inter Touring Barchetta
Horsepower302 hp110 hp
Torque250 lb-ft108 lb-ft
Engine Size3,670 cc1,995 cc
0-60 mph6.1 sec
Top Speed153 mph118 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec
Weight2,800 lbs1,874 lbs
Wheelbase2,489 mm2,420 mm
Length4,394 mm3,900 mm
Units Produced1,20437
Original MSRP$12,250
Value (Excellent)$1,800,000$8,000,000
Collectibility9/109/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta counters with lighter weight, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT and 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT holds a clear advantage in raw power with 302 hp compared to 110 hp, a 192-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB4 uses a Inline-6 DOHC displacing 3,670 cc, while the Ferrari 166 Inter relies on a V12 SOHC with 1,995 cc. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT claims a higher top speed at 153 mph compared to 118 mph. The Ferrari 166 Inter carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 926 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 37 units built, the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin DB4's 1,204 examples. On the collector market, the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta commands a significant premium over the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.