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LOT 181

1973 BMW 3.0 CS Coachwork by Karmann Chassis no. 2240623 Engine no. 2240680

Sold for US$86,800 inc. premium
Lot 181

1973 BMW 3.0 CS

1973 BMW 3.0 CS
Coachwork by Karmann

Chassis no. 2240623
Engine no. 2240680

2,986cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Dual Weber Carburetors
172bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Desirable 4-speed manual carbureted 3.0
*Gorgeous color combination
*Beautifully restored and nicely optioned
*Great candidate for vintage rallies such as the Copperstate 1000


THE 3.0 CS

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 it's running gear had more in common with the existing, four-cylinder 2000C/CS. The 2800 CS's replacement by the similarly styled 3.0-liter CS in 1971 brought with it numerous improvements, including four-wheel disc brakes in place of the old disc/drum combination. With plenty of power on tap, the 3.0 CS was good for more than 130mph. The E9 moved BMW up to directly challenge the fastest sports cars in the world. Victory laurels in some of the most significant races followed: The European Touring Car Championship ('73, '75, '76, '77, '78 and finally '79 – some years out of E9 production!) and class victories at Le Mans, Spa, and Daytona. These racing efforts had coincided with the growth of some of BMW's most significant tuning partners; Schnitzer Motorsports and, of course, Alpina.

With the announcement of the new 3.0-liter, six-cylinder range in 1971, BMW refined the existing six-cylinder 2.8 cars while retaining many of their most successful features. The sporting and elegant two door coachwork reflected strong Bertone influence while Karmann reworked the chassis which now incorporated much of the suspension detail from the luxury 3.0-liter saloons. The 2,986cc, six-cylinder, single overhead camshaft engine now developed approximately 172bhp at 5,800rpm while power for the CS models was transmitted through a four-speed manual gearbox. The supremely stylish coupé coachwork was built by Karmann and, in the configuration of the car offered, a top speed of 131mph was on tap with 0-60mph acceleration in just 8 seconds.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

As a US edition E9 3.0 CS, this BMW is one of the rare examples delivered with a much preferred 4-speed manual transmission as well as the desirable carbureted 6-cylinder engine. This made the 3.0 an excellent choice for cruising the back roads or comfortable enough for long haul road trips. This example is believed to have been delivered new in California where it remained for the majority of its life. With a recent photo documented restoration, it is obvious that the previous owner knew that this would be a future collectible. The restoration was performed in high quality and the car was finished in the classic color scheme German Silver Metallic paint over an attractive dark blue leather interior. This example is very nicely appointed with desirable options including the aforementioned 4-speed manual gearbox, electric sunroof, power windows as well as leather seats. The addition of Alpina wheels make the car much more visibly appealing.

This German Autobahn cruiser is in such great condition, it is evident that this example has always been well-cared for. The owner of this vehicle acquired the car from Gordon McCall. The low mileage on this 3.0 CS is believed to be the true original mileage of less than 45,000 miles travelled. This E9 will come equipped with its owners manuals, previous receipts, folder containing the photo documentation of the restoration work and its trunk mounted tool kit. A great, low mileage example, in a timeless color combination with sorted mechanicals; this car is the recipe for an enjoyable driving experience. This BMW is prepared to be shown or even eligible to be entered into a popular vintage car rally such as the Copperstate 1000. Ready for spirited touring, the BMW offered here is one of the most iconic designs from the celebrated Bayerische Motoren Werke.

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