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Gordon Keeble GK 1 (1964-66)

Production Total: 99
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=N/A

Gordon Keeble GK 1 (1964-66)

The Gordon Keeble GK1, while a beautifully designed and powerful classic car, does have some common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:

1. **Electrical Issues**: The GK1 is known for having electrical problems, particularly with the wiring and connections¹.
2. **Cooling System**: The car's cooling system can be inadequate, leading to overheating, especially in warmer climates¹.
3. **Fibreglass Body**: Although the fibreglass body is resistant to rust, it can suffer from cracking and damage, particularly if the car has been involved in an accident³.
4. **Parts Availability**: Given the limited production run, finding replacement parts can be challenging and expensive².
5. **Suspension and Steering**: The De Dion rear suspension, while advanced for its time, can be complex to maintain and repair¹.

Despite these issues, the GK1 remains a cherished classic due to its unique blend of British, Italian, and American engineering.
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Body Style
The Gordon Keeble GK1 was primarily produced in a **2-door coupé** body style. This design was crafted by the renowned Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, giving the car its distinctive and elegant appearance..
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Trim Levels
The Gordon-Keeble GK1, produced between 1964 and 1966, did not have distinct trim levels like many modern cars. However, it was originally trimmed in vinyl, which was quite unusual for a luxury GT at the time. Many owners have since upgraded to leather interiors.

The GK1 was known for its combination of British, Italian, and American engineering, featuring a fiberglass body and a powerful Chevrolet V8 engine. It was a unique and stylish car, but due to production issues, only 99 units were made.
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Engine
The Gordon Keeble GK1 was powered by a **327 cubic inch (5.4-litre) Chevrolet V8 engine**. This engine was known for its reliability and performance, providing the GK1 with impressive power and a top speed in the region of 140 mph.
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Performance
The Gordon Keeble GK1 was known for its impressive performance, thanks to its powerful Chevrolet V8 engine. Here are the key performance specifications:

- **Engine**: 5.4-liter Chevrolet 327 V8
- **Power**: 300 bhp (224 kW) at 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 360 lb-ft (488 Nm) at 3200 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 145 mph (233 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 6.0 seconds

These specifications made the Gordon Keeble GK1 a competitive and desirable sports car in its era.
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Spares
For spares and parts for a Gordon Keeble GK1 in the UK or Ireland, you have a few options:

1. **Gordon-Keeble Owners' Club**: This is a great resource for enthusiasts and owners. They can provide information on sourcing parts and may have members who can help you find what you need.

2. **eBay**: Occasionally, you can find parts for the Gordon Keeble GK1 listed on eBay. It's worth checking regularly for any new listings.

3. **Classic Car Specialists**: Websites like Car and Classic often have listings for classic car parts, including those for the Gordon Keeble GK1.

4. **Bonhams Auctions**: Sometimes, parts or even entire cars are available through classic car auctions.
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Specialists NI
Finding a mechanic experienced with the Gordon Keeble GK1 can be challenging due to its rarity, but here are some options in the UK and Ireland:

1. **Ernie Knott**: Known as a Gordon-Keeble expert, Ernie Knott has a long history of working on these cars and even set up the Gordon-Keeble Centre for repair and development in Brackley⁴.

2. **Classic Car Specialists**: Look for classic car specialists who have experience with rare and vintage vehicles. Some well-regarded ones include:
- **Graeme Hunt Ltd.**: They have experience with Gordon Keeble GK1s and have handled full restorations.
- **Bonhams Auctions**: They often handle classic cars and may have connections to mechanics who specialize in rare models.

3. **Gordon-Keeble Owners' Club**: This club can be an invaluable resource. Members often share information about trusted mechanics and service providers.
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Racing
The Gordon Keeble GK1 itself did not have a notable racing history. However, an early prototype of the GK1, known as the Gordon-Keeble GT, did feature in the classic racing film "The Green Helmet". This prototype was extensively campaigned in various events before the production model was finalized.

While the GK1 was more of a grand tourer designed for luxury and performance on the road, its powerful Chevrolet V8 engine and advanced engineering made it a car with impressive capabilities.
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Valuation
The value of a Gordon Keeble GK1 today can vary based on its condition and provenance. Here are some general price ranges:

- **Project Cars**: Starting around £20,000.
- **Good Condition**: Approximately £67,500.
- **Excellent Condition**: Up to £139,000.

These values can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of the car.
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