1972 BMW 3.0 CSL Coupe

This 1972 BMW is one of the original 19 factory CSL Race cars known to have been built, of all variants produced. One of those 19 is known to have been burned to the ground, and there are two in the BMW AG Art car collection, and at least five in museums around the world. These vehicles are commonly known as the 'Batmobiles,' and have long been considered the first actual product of the newly conceived, as yet unincorporated BMW M GMBH under the direction of Bob Lutz.

To meet constrictive homologation regulations of the Group 2 racing class, BMW engineers developed a limited production run of 'homologation specials.' The trim was removed, and thinner steel was used for the main body shell. Aluminum alloy was used for the doors, bonnet, and boot lid. Perspex was used for the side windows. These efforts resulted in a reduction of weight by 300 lbs. Initially, they were powered by an over-bored engine enabling it to compete in the over 3-liter class. The 3.0 CSL was powered by a 206 horsepower engine for road use and over 300 horsepower unit for the track. The engine's stroke was increased in 1973, upping the capacity to 3,153cc. From mid-season forward, the racing CSLs used the so-called 'Batmobile' aerodynamic package, developed at Stuttgart University. This package consisted of a front chin spoiler, large rear wing and various other modifications. The wing was illegal for road use in Germany and left in the boot for final installation after purchase.

The racing history includes: 4th of four FIA Group 2 CSLs built for the 1973 German Touring Car Championship with wins by Hans Stuck and Chris Amon. This is the Team car that brought the 1973 European Sedan Championship to Dieter Quester and Toine Hezemans. It finished 1st in touring car (group 2) and 11th overall with Hezemans, Quester and Stuck driving in the 1973 24 Hours of Le Mans. It completed 2,609.4 miles with an average speed of 108.4 mph. Toine Hezemans then went on to capture the 1973 European Touring Car Championship for BMW with a 3.0 CSL. Starting in 1975 onwards the BMW 'Batmobile' won five consecutive European Touring Car Championships.

The car is still actively vintage raced by the current owner. The body and chassis are original and the motor is the correct type and displacement, but not the original number as is the case with most race cars.

This vehicle has enjoyed ownership in the United States for over two decades, prior to its sale to the current owner in 2005.