1973 | BMW 3.0 CSL

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1973 BMW 3.0 CSL (E9) RHD

Coachwork by Karmann

Chassis no. 2285349

Engine: 2285349

3003cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine

206bhp at 6,000rpm

- 4-Speed Manual Transmission
- 4-Wheel Race Specification Suspension
- 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
- A great example of BMW's legendary homologation special
- Fully restored by marque specialists to ‘better than new’ condition
- Unique one-off enhanced road going version, with original UK Registration
- Matching-numbers CSL in striking and rare Polaris Silver
- BMW Motorsport Stripes
- Highly collectible enhanced ‘Drivers Specification’ rebuild
- Offered with BMW Classic Certificate and comprehensive history file

The BMW 3.0 CSL

The early 1970s marked a defining chapter for BMW, where triumphs in the European Formula 2 Championship and the European Touring Car Championship were achieved with the legendary 3.0 CSL, affectionately known as the 'Batmobile’.

BMW's re-emergence with six-cylinder power in 1968 through models like the 2500 and 2800 saloons set the stage for innovation. The predecessor to the 3.0 CSL, the 2800CS Coupe, shared traits with the four-cylinder 2000C/CS. The 1971 debut of the equally styled 3.0-litre CS brought notable enhancements, including four-wheel ventilated disc brakes and a robust 180bhp engine, propelling it to speeds around 130mph. For racing, there emerged the featherweight 3.0 CSL.

Visually akin to its more common counterparts, the 3.0 CSL (Coupe Sport Leicht) epitomized ingenious homologation. BMW's response to racing regulations birthed a limited production ‘homologation special.’ Through trim removal, thinner steel for the body, aluminium alloy for doors, bonnet, and boot lid, and Perspex side windows, a substantial 300|bs (136kgs) was shed - truly embracing 'Leicht' (light).

Initially homologated with a slightly over-bored 3,003cc engine for the over 3-litre class, the 3.0 CSL roared with 206bhp on the road and over 300 horsepower on the track. Evolution continued in 1973, enlarging the engine's capacity to 3,153cc (3.2 litres). Mid-season, racing CSLs adopted the ‘Batmobile’ aerodynamic package, featuring a front chin spoiler, a sizable rear wing, and innovative enhancements - elements reserved for track use due to German road regulations.

Empowered by these enhancements, the 'Batmobiles' overcame the dominant Ford Capri RS2600s. Toine Hezemans clinched the 1973 European Touring Car Championship for BMW, steering a 3.0 CSL, while securing a class victory at Le Mans alongside Dieter Quester. Following Ford's resurgence in 1974, BMW's 'Batmobiles' embarked on an unprecedented streak, securing five consecutive European Touring Car Championships from 1975 onward.

This Car

Built on the 18" January 1973 at the Munich-based BMW plant, this rare CSL adorns a striking Polaris Silver finish over a Black interior. The BMW Classic Certificate confirms its UK RHD specifications and it’s initial sale was through BMW UK Limited in January 1973 to a company called Hunter & Dillon, based in Hull, UK.

This exemplary vehicle comes with an extensive history file encompassing an original Handbook, BMW Classic Certificate, UK road registration records dating back to 1973, and a comprehensive documentation of its restoration. The meticulous restoration process, spanning three years, was meticulously documented, and undertaken by esteemed marque specialists Jaymic Workshop for the bodyshell and running gear and BMW E9 Specialists Laranca Engineering for reassembly, ensuring factory-grade repairs and rebuilds.

The comprehensive restoration encompassed a fully rebuilt engine, gearbox, and differential, alongside meticulous refurbishment of woodwork, chrome trim and original alloy wheels. Upgrades include new brakes, race-spec adjustable suspension, driveshafts, an aluminium high-efficiency radiator, premium leather interior, Batmobile race enhancements, and BMW Motorsport Stripes, culminating in the ultimate Driver’s Car experience.

For more information, please call our Sales Team on phone: +44 1621 879579