Highlights
- Only two prior owners
- Matching numbers example
- Certified as an historic vehicle in Germany
- Impressive paperwork file
The Appeal
Introduced in 1971, the 3.0CS was the 2nd generation of BMW’s trusty E9 range. With their extravagant Karmann bodywork, and the tried-and-true M30 I6 engine, these cars were a hugely successful piece of BMW’s retro catalogue - and managed to gain plenty of success in touring.
They’ve now become very desirable cars - and it’s no wonder. The performance is excellent, with attractive interiors and impressive looks that still manage to turn heads. It’s all highly detail orientated, with A wedged front, curving chromework and a swathe of coachlines.
This example, originally built for the Swiss market, is a very beguiling number - with an older restoration under its belt, plenty of paperwork and a fully waxed finish.
The History and Paperwork
- Built at Karmann’s factory in Rheine
- Built in 1975 - One of only 263 to be done so
- First registered in Switzerland
- Two prior owners
- In current ownership since 1990
- The first waxing was done in 1975 by MOTAG Switzerland immediately before it was handed to its first owner in Switzerland
- Restored in 1992 with wax proofing
- HU test, General Inspection and exhaust gas test passed in June 2023
- Indicates 90,565 kilometres on a five-figure odometer that the vendor informs us they can guarantee
- From what we can discern, this is likely to be the accurate
- The paperwork file includes:
- Registration paperwork
- Vehicle title paperwork
- Purchase contract for the car
- Inspection receipts including the most recent, valid until June 2025
- BMW emission-maintenance document
- Service record book with marks up to 74,000 kilometers
- Multiple invoices going back through the car’s history
The Interior
- Impressive blue leather, Sapele and fabric interior
- Highly original with no known modifications or restoration
- Lecarra wooden steering wheel, with the original included in the sale
Beautifully appointed with lashings of Sapele wood, this blue fabric cabin is quite a luxurious place for driver and passenger alike. Handsomely appointed, with much of its period character intact, this example is highly original and very nicely finished.
The fabric seats and door cards are showing some signs of wear throughout with both front seat upholstery having little tears, particularly to the sides of the bolsters, but do appear to be free of any significant rips, tears or fraying. The fittings on the door cards are all in good order, and both the carpet and headlining are in good condition.
The dashboard, with its period instruments and luxurious Sapele, appears to be in smashing order, with only a few mounting holes visible on the passenger’s side. We can’t spot any significant cracking or lacquer loss, and all of the instruments are clean and easy to read. A Lecarra wooden steering wheel has been fitted, which really suits the car - however, the vendor tells us that the original will also be included in the sale, for the buyer to make their own pick. We’ve informed that all of the options are working well, including the rear power windows.
We understand that the floor pans have been welded, but there’s no known corrosion.
A quick look around the back of the car reveals that the boot is in excellent order, with no signs of corrosion and a good, solid floor.
The Exterior
- Impressive Karmann bodywork
- Fully wax proofed, maintaining an excellent finish
- Highly detailed blue paintwork with plenty of coachlines and chrome
- Full set of colour-matched BBS wheels
With its angular lines, wedge-front and distinctive BMW split grille, the 3.0CS, on paper, is a classic example of iconic brand’s styling. However, a closer look betrays plenty of detailing and impressive character. The car flows beautifully, picked out in shining chrome with cosmetic side vents and angular lining.
It all looks to be in fine fettle, too. In 2021, a valuation highlighted the body and paintwork as being very good, with no chips or meaningful losses. This appears to be true today, with only the lightest areas of wear towards the sills and bumpers.
The chromework carries very gentle levels of patina, though nothing particularly significant. The BMW branding is all present and correct, and really looks the part, while the glasswork and lenses are free of cracks, chips and fractures.
The car is sitting on a full set of colour-matched BBS wheels, which we think really suit the car. These carry light signs of wear, but should clean up very nicely without issue. The vendor notes that the current tyres are in need of replacement.
Underneath, the car is in good condition. The floor was welded during the 1992 restoration, but has bedded in well and doesn’t stand out amongst the car’s underside. There are very light signs of wear, but no meaningful corrosion - and the car, ultimately, looks solid and well-maintained.
The Mechanics
- Powered by a 2986cc M30 I6 powerplant
- 4-speed manual transmission
Pop open the hood of the engine bay of this E9, and you’ll be hit by the familiar sight of the M30. This SOHC straight-six was in production for 27 years, meaning plenty of parts availability and a solid, tried-and-tested powerplant for the car’s day-to-day.
This example looks in fine order, too, with no major faults we can spot and everything presenting well. The car’s valid technical inspection means there’s little to concern the prospective buyer, and the vendor reports no mechanical faults with how it drives.
With no reports of leaks, knocks, bangs or smoke, this E9 looks ready and willing to resume its career with a new owner - and we’re confident it should prove a very trusty companion.
Summary
Beautifully finished, highly original and ready to go - this is a superb example of a characterful retro coupe.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].
