Germany vs Germany — 1956 vs 1968
| 507 | E9 3.0 CS Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,168 cc | 2,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 2,987 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,480 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,380 mm | 4,680 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 11,063 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | $9,195 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $125,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
The 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 BMW 507 counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, 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.
The 1956 BMW 507 and 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe share a manufacturer in BMW, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the BMW brand. The 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 150 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 507 uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,168 cc, while the BMW E9 3.0 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the BMW E9 3.0 CS's 11,063 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.