1973 BMW 3.0 CSL Coupé
Registration no. UEC 154M
Chassis no. 2285342
Odometer reading: 86,885
MOT: Exempt


*Present ownership for 40-plus years
*Reconditioned engine fitted at 68,000 miles (circa 19,000 miles ago)
*Requires re-commissioning following period of storage


1973 was a landmark year for BMW, for not only did the German manufacturer power Jean-Pierre Jarier to the European Formula 2 Championship, it also captured the European Touring Car Championship using one of the most iconic racing 'saloons' of modern times: the 3.0 CSL (Coupé Sport Leicht) homologation special, known popularly as the 'Batmobile'. Powered initially by a fractionally over-bored (3,003cc) engine (enabling it to compete in the over 3-litre class) the 3.0 CSL came with 206bhp for road use and well over 300 horsepower for the track.
The current vendor has owned this rare right-hand drive BMW 3.0 CSL for the last 40-plus years, during the course of which it has been used for several European tours. While in the vendor's ownership the car has benefited from ongoing restoration and regular maintenance, most significantly the installation of a new 'factory' reconditioned engine at 68,000 miles (receipts available). Stored for a period of time, the car will require general re-commissioning before further use; in that connection it should be noted that the tyres need replacing and that, although the engine runs, the injector seals are leaking. Finished in gold with original black cloth/vinyl interior, the CSL comes with a V5C Registration Certificate and a fully documented history.
With only 1,039 CSLs produced between 1973 and 1975 compared to over 19,000 standard CS/CSi models, these 'specials' will always be relatively rare and today this ultimate BMW coupé is highly sought after.

£60,000 - 80,000
Footnotes:
Vendor Score Total: 77/100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered 'as is / as seen' subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 16/25
Body Work: 3
Paint:3
Glass:4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim:3
Wheels/Tyres:3

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16/20
Gearbox/Clutch:4
Axles:4
Suspension:4
Brakes:4

INTERIOR TOTAL:16/20
Seats:4
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets:4
Headlining:4
Trim:4

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/10
Main components:4
Ancillary components:4

ENGINE TOTAL: 16/20
Starting:4
Running:4
Under Bonnet:4
Mechanical components:4

Car History File: 5