UK vs Germany — 1961 vs 1973
| Mk2 3.8 Litre | 2002 tii | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 220 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 240 lb-ft | 131 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,781 cc | 1,990 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,261 lbs | 2,271 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,731 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,581 mm | 4,230 mm |
| Units Produced | 30,141 | 16,448 |
| Original MSRP | $4,564 | $4,575 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1973 BMW 2002 tii answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre versus 1973 BMW 2002 tii is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 130 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar Mk2 uses a Inline-6 DOHC displacing 3,781 cc, while the BMW 2002 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,990 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 BMW 2002 tii edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The BMW 2002 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 990 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.