France vs USA — 1961 vs 1963
| A110 Berlinette 1600S | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,596 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,499 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,850 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 7,176 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S counters with lighter weight, 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.
Putting the 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S against the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus USA. The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 138 hp, a 133-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alpine A110 uses a Inline-4 OHV Renault Gordini 1600 displacing 1,596 cc, while the Shelby Cobra 289 relies on a V8 OHV with 4,727 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Alpine A110 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 651 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 654 units built, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Alpine A110's 7,176 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1961 Alpine A110 Berlinette 1600S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.