Bolwell Nagari

vs

Porsche 911

Australia vs Germany — 1970 vs 1972

Bolwell Nagari (1970)
Porsche 911 (1972)
Specifications
Nagari 302 V8911 Carrera RS 2.7
Horsepower210 hp210 hp
Torque290 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size4,949 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph6.0 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed140 mph152 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,249 lbs2,150 lbs
Wheelbase2,413 mm2,271 mm
Length4,115 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced1181,580
Value (Excellent)$400,000$1,500,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 offers greater rarity, better value, while the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When Australia engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 and 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8 producing 210 hp and the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 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 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.0 seconds. 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 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1970 Bolwell Nagari 302 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.