West Germany vs Germany — 1971 vs 1961
| 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 225 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 278 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,520 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.8 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,505 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,460 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,390 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 237,287 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $17,660 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL 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 — West Germany versus Germany. The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 160 hp, a 65-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL uses a V8 SOHC displacing 4,520 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The BMW 3200 CS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 375 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 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.