France vs Germany — 1970 vs 1961
| SM Injection | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 167 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,670 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,197 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,890 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,920 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $11,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1970 Citroen SM Injection makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. However, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe counters with greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Citroen SM Injection for outright capability, or the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between France and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1970 Citroen SM Injection 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 1970 Citroen SM Injection producing 170 hp and the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe delivering 160 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen SM uses a V6 DOHC Maserati displacing 2,670 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Citroen SM Injection edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 538 units built, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Citroen SM's 12,920 examples.