Highlights
- In the same family from new, purchased by the seller's grandfather in 1973
- Unused and stored in a family garage for approximately 35-40 years (1980s-2023)
- Original unrestored "time capsule" condition
- Recently recommissioned after decades in storage
- Only two registered keepers from new
The Appeal
The BMW 3.0 CS is one of BMW's most celebrated grand tourers, combining elegant Karmann coachwork with the refined performance of BMW's silky-smooth straight-six engine. These E9 coupés mark a high point in BMW's design history, with their pillarless profile and perfect proportions making them highly sought after by collectors.
This 1973 example offers something increasingly rare in the classic car world: genuine originality and single-family ownership from new. Purchased by the seller's grandfather in 1973, this 3.0 CS was used for approximately 7-10 years before being stored in the family garage around 1980-1985. We're informed that it remained there, untouched, for 35-40 years until 2023, when the family began the process of transferring ownership and recommissioning the vehicle.
As a true "time capsule" preserved rather than restored, this BMW offers an authentic glimpse of how these vehicles were in period.
As a true "time capsule" preserved rather than restored, this BMW offers an authentic glimpse of how these vehicles were in period.
History and Paperwork
- Originally purchased new by the seller's grandfather in 1973
- Unused and stored for approximately 35-40 years (between 1980-1985 until 2023)
- In 2023, the family began legalising ownership transfer, restoration, and historic vehicle classification
- Only two registered keepers from new: the grandfather and his granddaughter (current seller)
- Described by the vendor as a "time capsule" and "barn find"
- Original condition vehicle from the 1980s, we are told
- The vendor states it is better than a restored example due to originality
The Condition
- General age-related patina and minor cosmetic damage to paintwork (visible in photos)
- The bodywork appears very good overall and can be studied in the photographs
- Period alloy wheels in highly presentable order
- The cabin appears in very good order with upholstery that presents exceedingly well for its age
- No apparent modifications to the interior
- Always stored in family garage in a dry place, we are told
- Radio antenna raises electrically but needs manual assistance to lower
- Rear right window electric control not functioning (worked previously)
- Radio not heard working by the vendor
The Mechanics
- 3.0-litre straight-six petrol
- Three-speed automatic gearbox
- Mechanically in good condition, we are told
- Reportedly starts without problems, runs well, and the gearbox works smoothly
- Slight tendency to veer right when braking reported by the vendor, otherwise said to be driving nicely
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