Italy vs Italy — 1960 vs 1968
| 250 California Spider SWB | Islero S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 350 hp |
| Torque | 202 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 3,929 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 164 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,337 lbs | 2,833 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 4,480 mm |
| Units Produced | 56 | 225 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | $14,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $20,000,000 | $700,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. 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 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB versus the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1968 Lamborghini Islero S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 280 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 California Spider uses a V12 SOHC displacing 2,953 cc, while the Lamborghini Islero relies on a V12 DOHC with 3,929 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Ferrari 250 California Spider carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 496 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 Islero's 225 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB commands a significant premium over the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spider SWB rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.