1974 BMW 3.0 CSi Coupé
Registration no. AUY 19M Chassis no. 2265466

Goodwood Members' Meeting Sale: Event Cancelled: All Lots Listed Still Available for Sale until 17:00 GMT Sunday 29th March|29 March 2020, 13:00 BST|Chichester, Goodwood

1974 BMW 3.0 CSi Coupé
Registration no. AUY 19M
Chassis no. 2265466

*One of only 207 right-hand drive models
*Manual transmission
*Rare factory sunroof
*Recent extensive works

Footnotes

BMW returned to six-cylinder power for its top-of-the-range models in 1968 with the launch of the 2500 and 2800 saloons together with the stylish 2800 CS coupé. Designated 'E9', the latter was powered by the 2800 saloon's M30 engine, though its running gear had more in common with the existing, four-cylinder 2000 C/CS. The 2800 CS's replacement by the similarly styled 3.0-litre CS in 1971 brought with it numerous improvements, including four-wheel disc brakes in place of the old disc/drum combination. With 180bhp on tap courtesy of its larger engine, the 3.0 CS was good for in excess of 130mph, with even more performance on offer from the 3.0 CSi. The latter's Bosch D-Jetronic fuel-injected engine produced 200bhp, only a whisker below the maximum enjoyed by the lightweight CSL Group 2 'homologation special', affectionately known as the 'Batmobile' on account of its futuristic body kit.

Although designed as a fast and comfortable touring car, the 3.0 CSi in its Batmobile form would turn out to be one of the most successful competition saloons of all time. Developed at Stuttgart University and used from mid-1973 onwards, the Batmobile aerodynamic package enabled BMW to defeat the previously all-conquering Ford Capri RS2600s, commencing with the 1973 European Touring Car Championship. Ford bounced back in 1974 but from 1975 onwards the Batmobiles won five consecutive ETCCs, a quite unprecedented run of success.

Today these exciting and charismatic E9 Grand Tourers enjoy an enthusiastic following and well-preserved examples such as that offered here are increasingly sought after. One of only 207 right-hand drive models produced, this example is equipped with a 'City Pack' and a factory sunroof, which was a very rare no-cost option introduced in 1974 to increase the car's desirability during the fuel crisis. A very well presented manual transmission model finished in Polaris Silver with lovely dark blue leather trim, this particular car has recently benefited from extensive refurbishment including a new radiator, new brakes and brake lines, overhauled fuel system, new tyres, etc. Accompanying documentation consists of a current MoT and a V5C Registration Certificate.

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