France vs Germany — 1968 vs 1961
| 504 Coupé V6 | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 159 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,664 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,580 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,490 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 538 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupé V6 counters with 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 Peugeot 504 Coupé V6 against the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupé V6 producing 144 hp and the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe delivering 160 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 504 uses a V6 OHV 12V displacing 2,664 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 10.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupé V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.