UK vs Germany — 1964 vs 1969
| GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 | 2800 CS E9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 340 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,355 cc | 2,788 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,200 lbs | 2,976 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,626 mm |
| Length | 4,699 mm | 4,650 mm |
| Units Produced | 99 | 9,399 |
| Original MSRP | $8,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
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 BMW 2800 CS E9 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 BMW 2800 CS E9 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 versus 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9 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 170 hp, a 130-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 BMW 2800 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,788 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. The BMW 2800 CS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 224 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 BMW 2800 CS's 9,399 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 commands a significant premium over the 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.