Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

vs

Ferrari 212 Export

Italy vs Italy — 1957 vs 1952

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa (1957)
Ferrari 212 Export (1952)
Specifications
250 Testa Rossa212 Export Barchetta
Horsepower300 hp170 hp
Torque203 lb-ft159 lb-ft
Engine Size2,953 cc2,562 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec7.2 sec
Top Speed168 mph140 mph
Weight1,764 lbs1,609 lbs
Wheelbase2,350 mm2,250 mm
Length4,030 mm3,900 mm
Units Produced3427
Value (Excellent)$45,000,000$8,500,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta answers with lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Ferrari has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa with the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 170 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa commands a significant premium over the 1952 Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.