Lancia Aurelia

vs

Aston Martin DB2/4

Italy vs UK — 1953 vs 1950

Lancia Aurelia (1953)
Aston Martin DB2/4 (1950)
Specifications
Aurelia B24 SpiderDB2/4 Mk III
Horsepower118 hp162 hp
Torque145 lb-ft175 lb-ft
Engine Size2,451 cc2,922 cc
0-60 mph12.0 sec9.3 sec
Top Speed115 mph118 mph
¼ Mile18.0 sec17.1 sec
Weight2,381 lbs2,750 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm2,515 mm
Length4,370 mm4,166 mm
Units Produced761551
Original MSRP$5,500$6,500
Value (Excellent)$600,000$500,000
Collectibility9/108/10
Rarity8/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Italy and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider versus 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 162 hp compared to 118 hp, a 44-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Aurelia uses a V6 OHV displacing 2,451 cc, while the Aston Martin DB2/4 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 2,922 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III edges ahead at 9.3 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The Lancia Aurelia carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 369 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.