Bolwell Nagari

vs

Porsche 911

Australia vs Germany — 1970 vs 1973

Bolwell Nagari (1970)
Porsche 911 (1973)
Specifications
Nagari 302 V8911 2.7 RS Carrera
Horsepower210 hp210 hp
Torque290 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size4,949 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph6.0 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed140 mph152 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,249 lbs1,984 lbs
Wheelbase2,413 mm2,271 mm
Length4,115 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced1181,580
Original MSRP$11,000
Value (Excellent)$400,000$1,200,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 offers greater rarity, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between Australia and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 versus 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 producing 210 hp and the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera delivering 210 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bolwell Nagari uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,949 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 6.0 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 265 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 118 units built, the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911's 1,580 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera commands a significant premium over the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.