Ferrari 250 GTO

vs

Ferrari F40

Italy vs Italy — 1962 vs 1987

Ferrari 250 GTO (1962)
Ferrari F40 (1987)
Specifications
250 GTO Series IF40 Twin Turbo
Horsepower302 hp478 hp
Torque217 lb-ft425 lb-ft
Engine Size2,953 cc2,936 cc
0-60 mph5.8 sec3.8 sec
Top Speed174 mph201 mph
¼ Mile14.1 sec11.8 sec
Weight1,940 lbs2,425 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,450 mm
Length4,400 mm4,358 mm
Units Produced361,315
Original MSRP$18,000$400,000
Value (Excellent)$70,000,000$3,500,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/108/10
The Verdict

The 1987 Ferrari F40 Twin Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, 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.

Overview

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I and 1987 Ferrari F40 Twin Turbo share a manufacturer in Ferrari, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Ferrari brand. The 1987 Ferrari F40 Twin Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 478 hp compared to 302 hp, a 176-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 250 GTO uses a V12 SOHC (Colombo) displacing 2,953 cc, while the Ferrari F40 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V Twin Turbo (Tipo F120A) with 2,936 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1987 Ferrari F40 Twin Turbo edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 5.8 seconds. The Ferrari 250 GTO carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 485 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari F40's 1,315 examples. On the collector market, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series I commands a significant premium over the 1987 Ferrari F40 Twin Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.