Italy vs USA — 1964 vs 1963
| 275 GTB Standard Long-Nose | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,286 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 165 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,425 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 4,395 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 460 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | $14,250 | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $4,500,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value. The 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB Standard Long-Nose counters with higher top speed, 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.
When Italy engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB Standard Long-Nose and 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB Standard Long-Nose producing 280 hp and the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster delivering 271 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 275 GTB uses a V12 SOHC displacing 3,286 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 6.0 seconds. The Shelby Cobra 289 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 275 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB Standard Long-Nose commands a significant premium over the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.