France vs Germany — 1968 vs 1961
| 504 Coupe | 3200 CS Bertone Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 136 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,664 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,750 mm |
| Length | 4,510 mm | 4,730 mm |
| Units Produced | 21,800 | 538 |
| Original MSRP | $7,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupe counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupe 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 — France versus Germany. The 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 136 hp, a 24-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 504 uses a V6 OHV PRV displacing 2,664 cc, while the BMW 3200 CS relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Peugeot 504 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 374 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 Peugeot 504's 21,800 examples. On the collector market, the 1961 BMW 3200 CS Bertone Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1968 Peugeot 504 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.