Italy vs Italy — 1968 vs 1960
| Espada Series III | 250 California Spider SWB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 365 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 289 lb-ft | 202 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,929 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,263 lbs | 2,337 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,738 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,217 | 56 |
| Original MSRP | $16,000 | $14,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $20,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III versus the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 365 hp compared to 280 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lamborghini Espada uses a V12 DOHC displacing 3,929 cc, while the Ferrari 250 California Spider relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Ferrari 250 California Spider carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 926 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 56 units built, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB is considerably scarcer than the Lamborghini Espada's 1,217 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB commands a significant premium over the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.