Lancia Flaminia

vs

BMW 3.0 CS

Italy vs Germany — 1960 vs 1971

Lancia Flaminia (1960)
BMW 3.0 CS (1971)
Specifications
Flaminia GT Touring 2.53.0 CS E9
Horsepower140 hp180 hp
Torque145 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size2,458 cc2,985 cc
0-60 mph11.0 sec8.5 sec
Top Speed115 mph131 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec16.1 sec
Weight3,075 lbs
Wheelbase2,750 mm2,625 mm
Length4,700 mm4,660 mm
Units Produced1,71811,063
Original MSRP$9,695
Value (Excellent)$200,000$120,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

The 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 counters with greater rarity, 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.

Overview

When Italy engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 and 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 140 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Flaminia uses a V6 OHV displacing 2,458 cc, while the BMW 3.0 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC 12V with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,718 units built, the 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 is considerably scarcer than the BMW 3.0 CS's 11,063 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.