UK vs West Germany — 1964 vs 1971
| CV8 Mk II | 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 405 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,276 cc | 2,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,360 lbs | 3,086 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,724 mm | 4,660 mm |
| Units Produced | 500 | 8,199 |
| Original MSRP | $7,995 | $10,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II excels in more power, greater rarity, better value, while the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II against the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus West Germany. The 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 200 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jensen CV8 uses a V8 OHV (Chrysler) displacing 6,276 cc, while the BMW 3.0 CSi relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The BMW 3.0 CSi carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 274 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 500 units built, the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II is considerably scarcer than the BMW 3.0 CSi's 8,199 examples.