Sweden vs Germany — 1961 vs 1961
| P1800 1800S | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,986 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,403 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,369 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,484 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $4,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
Numbers favor the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Sweden and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S versus 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 118 hp, a 42-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo P1800 uses a Inline-4 OHV B18/B20 displacing 1,986 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Volvo P1800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 727 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 538 units built, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Volvo P1800's 47,484 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1961 Volvo P1800 1800S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.