UK vs Italy — 2003 vs 2008
| DB9 | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 450 hp | 453 hp |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft | 358 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,935 cc | 4,297 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 186 mph | 193 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | 12.1 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,825 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,740 mm | 2,670 mm |
| Length | 4,710 mm | 4,563 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 14,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $195,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $160,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2003 Aston Martin DB9 brings better value to the table, and the 2008 Ferrari California answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 2003 Aston Martin DB9 versus 2008 Ferrari California is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 2003 Aston Martin DB9 producing 450 hp and the 2008 Ferrari California delivering 453 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB9 uses a V12 DOHC 48V displacing 5,935 cc, while the Ferrari California relies on a V8 DOHC with 4,297 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Ferrari California edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 4.6 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.