Italy vs United Kingdom — 1960 vs 1965
| 250 California Spider SWB | 428 Frua Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 345 hp |
| Torque | 202 lb-ft | 440 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 7,014 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,337 lbs | 3,250 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,578 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 4,597 mm |
| Units Produced | 56 | 81 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $20,000,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB brings higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe answers with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB versus 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 345 hp compared to 280 hp, a 65-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 California Spider uses a V12 SOHC displacing 2,953 cc, while the AC 428 relies on a V8 OHV (Ford FE 428) with 7,014 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Ferrari 250 California Spider carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 913 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB commands a significant premium over the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.