UK vs United Kingdom — 1964 vs 1974
| GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 | Elite Type 75 Series 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 340 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,355 cc | 1,973 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 7.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,200 lbs | 2,350 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 4,699 mm | 4,470 mm |
| Units Produced | 99 | 2,398 |
| Original MSRP | $8,000 | $15,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| 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 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 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 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 versus 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 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 160 hp, a 140-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 Lotus Elite Type 75 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,973 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 7.6 seconds. The Lotus Elite Type 75 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 850 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 Lotus Elite Type 75's 2,398 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 commands a significant premium over the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Gordon-Keeble GK1/IT Bertone-Designed V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.