1973 BMW 3.0 CSL

Success in motorsport sells cars, and the marketing department's requirements led BMW engineers to develop a limited-production 'homologation special' to meet the constrictive framework of the ‘Group 2’ racing class regulations at the time. By removing the trim and using thinner steel for the main bodyshell, aluminium alloy for the doors, bonnet and boot lid, and Perspex for the side windows, a valuable 300lbs (136kg) in weight was saved – 'Leicht' indeed.

Mechanically, these cars were almost identical to the fuel-injected CSi (which meant 200bhp and 140mph plus) but to take it into the over-3-litre class, the engines were bored out slightly to 3003cc. Equipped with all-round independent suspension (McPherson strut front/semi-trailing arm rear), disc brakes and responsive steering, it was wonderfully balanced. Very expensive when new (several hundred pounds more than a 2.7 RS 911) CSLs are now the most highly coveted BMWs of the 1970s with a fabulous competition record. We understand that only 1,039 CSLs were built in total with 500 of these in right-hand drive for the UK market.

Offered here is a beautiful, right-hand drive BMW 3.0 CSL that was supplied new in April 1973 by Black and White Garages in Harvington and first registered on 3rd April 1973. The car stayed with its first owner until changing hands through David Prophet BMW in January 1977 with the sales receipt on file. The BMW remained in the same ownership for the following 29 years until 2006 when the third owner discovered, what he perceived, was a lovely original CSL requiring some attention to bring it back to its best. Invoices within the history file evidence an engine rebuild in 2011 with a new clutch and various other mechanical attention. Our vendor acquired the CSL from a family member in March 2020 and, although presenting rather well, took the decision to commission a full glass-out respray and, for peace of mind, the engine was stripped, checked and reassembled with new ancillaries and further work was carried out to the braking system, confirmed by a receipt on file, dated October 2021, totalling just over £16,000.

The CSL is accompanied by a comprehensive history file including MOTs dating back to its very first in April 1976 indicating that the BMW had covered 64,331 miles by 1986. Further old MOTs up to 1998 show very minimal use indicating just over 65,000 miles before, it appears to have had some time off the road supported by SORN documents. There is a wealth of service receipts from 1977 through to present day which make very interesting reading, along with the aforementioned sales receipt dated 1977. Also within the file are registration documents showing all four owners in total from new along with owner handbooks and a period sales brochure. The original tool kit appears to be complete.

Having never been fully restored, this example feels refreshingly original inside the cabin and with a recent respray in its original colour, Fjord Blue, presents beautifully. The history file makes for fascinating reading and, although the car has spent some time off the road, there is no evidence to suggest that the indicated mileage is not correct. Our vendor informs us that the CSL retains its original engine, starts on-the-button and performs well.

This is one of just 500 UK-supplied, right-hand drive CSLs and one of just over 1,000 manufactured in total. With recent mechanical and cosmetic attention along with a refreshingly original interior, this example is ready to enjoy and would make a great addition to any classic car collection.