Bizzarrini 5300 GT

vs

Ferrari 250 California Spider

Italy vs Italy — 1965 vs 1960

Bizzarrini 5300 GT (1965)
Ferrari 250 California Spider (1960)
Specifications
5300 GT Strada250 California Spider SWB
Horsepower365 hp280 hp
Torque202 lb-ft
Engine Size5,359 cc2,953 cc
0-60 mph6.5 sec
Top Speed155 mph
¼ Mile14.8 sec
Weight2,337 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm2,400 mm
Length4,375 mm4,200 mm
Units Produced13356
Original MSRP$14,000
Value (Excellent)$1,800,000$20,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1965 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada brings more power, better value to the table, and the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB answers with greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1965 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada versus the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1965 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 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 Bizzarrini 5300 GT uses a V8 displacing 5,359 cc, while the Ferrari 250 California Spider relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. On the collector market, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB commands a significant premium over the 1965 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.