Highlights

In current ownership for over 43 years, part of a private collection
Dry stored and maintained by an on-site mechanic throughout the vendor's ownership
Upgraded to 3.5-litre 'Batmobile' spec motorsport engine with close ratio gearbox
Original 3.0-litre engine and wheels retained alongside the vehicle

The Appeal

The BMW 3.0 CSL needs little introduction. Born as a homologation special for European Touring Car racing, the lightweight coupé has become one of the most revered and collectable BMWs ever produced. Motorsport pedigree, striking design and limited production numbers has ensured its place among the all-time greats, and desirability has reflected that status emphatically in recent years.

This 1972 example has been in the hands of its current owner since March 1983 and has formed part of a private collection throughout that time. It has been dry stored and looked after by an on-site mechanic, and the vendor describes it as presenting in 'honest' and 'usable' condition. The car has been upgraded with a 3.5-litre 'Batmobile' specification motorsport engine and a close-ratio six-speed gearbox, complemented by genuine Alpina wheels. Crucially, the original 3.0-litre engine and wheels have been retained and accompany the car, offering the next custodian the option to return it to factory specification should they wish.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a long-term, single-ownership 3.0 CSL with desirable upgrades and its original components preserved.

History and Paperwork

UK-market right-hand drive vehicle first registered in 1972
In current ownership since March 1983
52,247 miles showing on the odometer, believed to be correct
MOT/road tax exempt
V5C present
Original 3.0-litre engine and original wheels retained and included with the car

The Condition

Well-presented example in very good, usable condition rather than a concours car
Some wear on the bodywork and wheels to note
Factory bucket seats fitted, with signs of wear on the driver's seat
The vendor reports all interior features work as expected
Toolkit and spare wheel present
Genuine Alpina wheels currently fitted; original wheels also included

When you see BMW's current output, it's hard to believe how beautiful its cars once were. The 3.0 CSL was certainly a high-point of BMW's shark-nosed era, penned by the legendary Wilhelm Hofmeister. Our car has been used and enjoyed as its maker intended, while enjoying a high standard of maintenance. Its condition reflects this; the car is in very good condition without being a concours showpiece one would be afraid to drive.

The Mechanics

3.5-litre inline six-cylinder engine (upgraded from the original 3.0-litre unit)
Six-speed close-ratio manual transmission
Upgraded to 'Batmobile' spec motorsport engine approximately 20 years ago
Recent new battery fitted

Even in standard form, a 3.0 CSL is impressive to drive. This car takes things a step further, having been upgraded to 'Batmobile' spec, with a 3.5-litre motorsport engine approximately 20 years ago. The vendor reports the engine starts and runs well. They report that the car drives smoothly and can be comfortably used and enjoyed

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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Comments

michael••••

4 hours ago

Hi, I’m very interested in the CSL. Before bidding, could you please confirm the chassis/VIN number and whether you have any BMW documentation confirming its original CSL specification? I’d also be grateful for any details on the provenance since 1983 and whether the original 3.0 engine is matching numbers. Many thanks.