BMW 3200 CS Bertone

Vehicle Overview

The BMW 3200 CS Bertone is a stunning example of automotive elegance and performance, combining BMW’s engineering prowess with Bertone’s design expertise. Produced between 1961 and 1965, this four-seater coupé was BMW’s ambitious attempt to break into the exclusive high-performance car market. Powered by a 3168 cc V8 engine delivering 160 hp at 5600 rpm, the BMW 3200 CS was capable of reaching a top speed of 200 km/h—an impressive feat for its time. Bertone, tasked with designing the body, crafted a vehicle that was both sleek and sophisticated. The 3200 CS was built on a 2835 mm wheelbase chassis and featured smooth, classical lines that emphasized its ample glass surfaces, giving it a sense of refinement and modernity. The car’s dimensions—4830 mm in length, 1720 mm in width, and 1460 mm in height—struck a balance between compact elegance and spacious comfort, with a total weight of 1390 kg. The front end of the 3200 CS stood out with its three-element radiator grille, where the central unit subtly underscored the iconic BMW kidney grille motif, maintaining the brand’s traditional design language. This distinctive feature, paired with the overall clean and simple lines of the car, ensured that the 3200 CS radiated sophistication without excess. The BMW 3200 CS made its official debut at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show and quickly gained a reputation for its luxury and performance. A total of 597 examples were produced by April 1965, making it a relatively rare model. Of these, only one cabriolet version was ever built, further adding to the model’s exclusivity and allure. The BMW 3200 CS Bertone is now a highly sought-after classic, admired for its understated beauty, excellent engineering, and its place in BMW’s rich history. Its timeless design continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts around the world, making it a true symbol of mid-century luxury and style.