Italy vs Italy — 1963 vs 1968
| Mistral 4.0 Spider | Islero S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 245 hp | 350 hp |
| Torque | 246 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,694 cc | 3,929 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 164 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 2,833 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,480 mm |
| Units Produced | 948 | 225 |
| Original MSRP | $12,500 | $14,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $700,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1968 Lamborghini Islero S emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider 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.
Among Grand Tourer enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider and 1968 Lamborghini Islero S is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1968 Lamborghini Islero S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 245 hp, a 105-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati Mistral uses a Straight-6 DOHC displacing 3,694 cc, while the Lamborghini Islero relies on a V12 DOHC with 3,929 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 225 units built, the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S is considerably scarcer than the Maserati Mistral's 948 examples.