UK vs Japan — 1967 vs 1969
| MGC GT | Luce Rotary R130 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 173 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,912 cc | 1,310 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.0 sec | 10.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.4 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,448 lbs | 2,546 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,311 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,899 mm | 4,370 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,542 | 879 |
| Original MSRP | $3,300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1967 MG MGC GT brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe answers with quicker acceleration, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between UK and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1967 MG MGC GT versus 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe 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 1967 MG MGC GT producing 145 hp and the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe delivering 126 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG MGC uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,912 cc, while the Mazda Luce Rotary relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel (13A) with 1,310 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe edges ahead at 10.0 seconds versus 10.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 879 units built, the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe is considerably scarcer than the MG MGC's 4,542 examples. On the collector market, the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1967 MG MGC GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary R130 Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.