Aston Martin DB4

vs

BMW 3200 CS

UK vs Germany — 1960 vs 1961

Aston Martin DB4 (1960)
BMW 3200 CS (1961)
Specifications
DB4 GT Zagato3200 CS Bertone Coupe
Horsepower314 hp160 hp
Torque195 lb-ft
Engine Size3,670 cc3,168 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec
Top Speed124 mph
Weight3,130 lbs
Wheelbase2,489 mm2,750 mm
Length4,325 mm4,730 mm
Units Produced19538
Value (Excellent)$16,000,000$150,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity10/109/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato brings more power, greater rarity to the table, and the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato versus 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato holds a clear advantage in raw power with 314 hp compared to 160 hp, a 154-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB4 uses a Inline-6 displacing 3,670 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 19 units built, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is considerably scarcer than the BMW 3200 CS's 538 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.