Italy vs Germany — 1966 vs 1961
| Mexico 4.7 V8 | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,719 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 149 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,483 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 485 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $15,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1966 Maserati Mexico 4.7 V8 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1966 Maserati Mexico 4.7 V8 versus 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1966 Maserati Mexico 4.7 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 290 hp compared to 160 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati Mexico uses a V8 DOHC displacing 4,719 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Maserati Mexico 4.7 V8 edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The BMW 3200 CS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 353 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.