Nicolas Sanchez slotted three drop goals amid a 15-point haul as the South American nation tasted victory once more at the Stade de France, where they famously beat the hosts at the 2007 World Cup.
Wesley Fofana's 56th-minute try sparked relentless pressure from France and Scott Spedding was dramatically held up after crossing in the final act of a pulsating finale.
France excelled in beating Australia last weekend but a disappointed Dusautoir pointed towards a lack of aggression that cost them in the first half against a ferocious Argentinean pack.
"They had an exceptional success, they deserve their victory," Dusautoir told France 2.
"There was a lack of aggressiveness in the first period. We dominated the second, but it's far too late reaction.
"We end with a taste of bitter defeat."
The result marked a disappointing end to France's November international programme, which also included victory over Fiji.
Dusautoir was keen to take the positives overall from this month's campaign.
"We will meet for the [Six Nations], hoping to be as prepared as for the first two matches, against Fiji and Australia."
Juan Martin Hernandez reverted to inside centre for Sanchez to take his place at fly-half and the Racing Metro player reflected on a hard-fought win.
He told France 2: "We finished the game very tired because the French have tried everything. [We led] very early in the game, but after they are incoming. This result is very positive because this group is young.
Hernandez added a drop goal of his own to Argentina's remarkable haul and he explained a well-organised French defence made it a natural tactic with two specialist kickers in the team.
"French defence was in place, so we took the drops - it was the only way to score points," he said. "Congratulations to our fly-half Nicolas Sanchez."