Italy vs Italy — 1962 vs 1959
| 250 GTO | 250 GT SWB Berlinetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 202 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,953 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.8 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,400 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 36 | 176 |
| Original MSRP | — | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity to the table, and the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ferrari 250 GTO. The 1962 and 1959 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 280 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GTO uses a V12 SOHC 24V displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO edges ahead at 5.8 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta's 176 examples. On the collector market, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO commands a significant premium over the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.