United Kingdom vs Germany — 1974 vs 1961
| Elite Type 75 Series 2 | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,973 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.6 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.8 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,350 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,398 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $15,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 for outright capability, or the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between United Kingdom and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 versus 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone 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 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 producing 160 hp and the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe delivering 160 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elite Type 75 uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,973 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2 edges ahead at 7.6 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Lotus Elite Type 75 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 780 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 Lotus Elite Type 75's 2,398 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1974 Lotus Elite Type 75 Series 2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.