France vs Germany — 1965 vs 1968
| R8 Gordini 1300 | 2002tii Touring | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 103 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 86 lb-ft | 131 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,255 cc | 1,990 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.4 sec |
| Weight | 1,819 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,270 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 3,990 mm | 4,220 mm |
| Units Produced | 11,607 | 38,703 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,895 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 brings lighter weight, greater rarity, better value to the table, and the 1968 BMW 2002tii Touring 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.
The rivalry between France and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 versus 1968 BMW 2002tii Touring is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1968 BMW 2002tii Touring holds a clear advantage in raw power with 130 hp compared to 103 hp, a 27-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault R8 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,255 cc, while the BMW 2002tii relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,990 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 BMW 2002tii Touring edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Renault R8 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 496 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 11,607 units built, the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 is considerably scarcer than the BMW 2002tii's 38,703 examples.