UK vs Italy — 1958 vs 1959
| DB4 GT | 250 GT SWB Berlinetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | 202 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,670 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.1 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 153 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,394 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,204 | 176 |
| Original MSRP | $12,250 | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,800,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT counters with quicker acceleration, 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.
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 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta 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 280 hp, a 22-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 250 GT SWB Berlinetta relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. The Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 485 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 176 units built, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin DB4's 1,204 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta commands a significant premium over the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.