Aston Martin DB4

vs

Ferrari 250 California Spider

UK vs Italy — 1958 vs 1958

Aston Martin DB4 (1958)
Ferrari 250 California Spider (1958)
Specifications
DB4 GT250 California Spider LWB/SWB
Horsepower302 hp240 hp
Torque250 lb-ft192 lb-ft
Engine Size3,670 cc2,953 cc
0-60 mph6.1 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed153 mph155 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec14.8 sec
Weight2,800 lbs2,315 lbs
Wheelbase2,489 mm2,600 mm
Length4,394 mm4,200 mm
Units Produced1,204106
Original MSRP$12,250$13,500
Value (Excellent)$1,800,000$18,500,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB answers with higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT versus 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT holds a clear advantage in raw power with 302 hp compared to 240 hp, a 62-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB4 uses a Inline-6 DOHC displacing 3,670 cc, while the Ferrari 250 California Spider relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Ferrari 250 California Spider carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 485 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 106 units built, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin DB4's 1,204 examples. On the collector market, the 1958 Ferrari 250 California Spider LWB/SWB commands a significant premium over the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.