Germany vs United Kingdom — 1968 vs 1973
| GT 1900 | MGB GT V8 Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 137 hp |
| Torque | 109 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 3,528 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 7.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,050 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,337 mm |
| Length | 4,145 mm | 3,886 mm |
| Units Produced | 103,373 | 2,591 |
| Original MSRP | $3,395 | $4,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
The 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Opel GT 1900 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1968 Opel GT 1900 against the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus United Kingdom. The 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 137 hp compared to 90 hp, a 47-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel GT uses a Inline-4 displacing 1,897 cc, while the MG MGB GT V8 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard edges ahead at 7.7 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. The Opel GT carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 350 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,591 units built, the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard is considerably scarcer than the Opel GT's 103,373 examples.