UK vs Japan — 1964 vs 1969
| GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 | Luce Rotary R130 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 340 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,355 cc | 1,310 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 10.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,200 lbs | 2,546 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 4,699 mm | 4,370 mm |
| Units Produced | 99 | 879 |
| Original MSRP | $8,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 for outright capability, or the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 versus 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 126 hp, a 174-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT uses a V8 OHV displacing 5,355 cc, while the Mazda Luce Rotary relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel (13A) with 1,310 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 10.0 seconds. The Mazda Luce Rotary carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 654 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 99 units built, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda Luce Rotary's 879 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 commands a significant premium over the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.