1972 BMW 3.0 CSL Coupé

Coachwork by Karmann Registration no. CAK 445L Chassis no. 2285119

Footnotes

Visually indistinguishable from its more 'run of the mill' relations, the CS and CSi, the 3.0 CSL (Coupé Sport Leicht) was creative homologation at its best. Success on the racetrack 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. 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 (136kgs) in weight was saved – 'Leicht' indeed.

First registered to Lord Astor, this exceptional CSL was the subject of a major restoration in the late 1990s. Genuine parts were used wherever possible, including numerous body panels, and the restoration was completed by a bare-metal re-spray to an exemplary standard. In 2009, the car was fully under-sealed by marque specialists Munich Legends, who also carried out a comprehensive mechanical overhaul and added a five-speed close-ratio 'dogleg' gearbox and air conditioning.

Factory fitted equipment includes the following: Alpina alloy wheels; limited-slip differential; heated rear window; BMW Bavaria radio; alloy bonnet, boot lid, doors; Scheel sports seats; chrome door mirrors; stainless steel arch extensions; electric windows; rear fog light, Fjord Blue metallic paintwork, Black interior.

'CAK 445L' is described by the vendor as in generally very good condition and is said to drive beautifully. Accompanying documentation consists of a current MoT certificate, V5C document, and the aforementioned restoration photographs.
Right hand drive cars are now very rare indeed - said to be around 100 of the 500 produced left remaining, with the vendor stating that this is one of the very best. With only 1,039 CSLs produced between 1972 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.