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BMW captured the European Touring Car Championship in 1973 with the 3.0 CSL, known popularly as the 'Batmobile.' Also that year, BMW driver Jean-Pierre Jarier won the European Formula 2 Championship.
A limited production run of 'homologation specials' were built to meet the constrictive framework of the Group 2 racing class regulations. The base trim from the CS and CSi were removed, thinner steel for the main bodyshell was used, and aluminum alloy was used for the doors, bonnet and boot lid. The windows were made from Perspex. In all, the vehicle's weight dropped by 300 lbs.
When initially homologated, the cars were powered by an over-bored (3,003cc) engine enabling it to compete in the over 3-liter class. The 3.0 CSL produced 206 horsepower for road use and over 300 horsepower in race guise. In 1973, the engine's stroke was increased, upping capacity to 3,153cc (nominally 3.2 liters).
From mid-season in 1973, the CSLs used the 'Batmobile' aerodynamic package, developed at Stuttgart University, which had a large rear wing, a front chin spoiler, and various other bodystyle changes. The package was not legal for road use in Germany, the wings were left in the boot for final installation after purchase.
From 1975 onwards, the BMW 'Batmobiles' won five consecutive European Touring Car championships.
This BMW 3.5-Liter Group 2 Competition Coupe was restored between 2007 and 2012. It was a 3.2CSL that had been prepared to full Group 2 specification. The 3.5-litre engine offers 246 horsepower. The car has been raced successfully in Europe in the Masters series, driven by Roger Wills, Joe Twyman and John Fitzpatrick.
In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Monaco sale presented by Bonhams. The car was estimated to sell for €120,000 - 150,000 but bidding failed to satisfy the vehicle's reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2012
A limited production run of 'homologation specials' were built to meet the constrictive framework of the Group 2 racing class regulations. The base trim from the CS and CSi were removed, thinner steel for the main bodyshell was used, and aluminum alloy was used for the doors, bonnet and boot lid. The windows were made from Perspex. In all, the vehicle's weight dropped by 300 lbs.
When initially homologated, the cars were powered by an over-bored (3,003cc) engine enabling it to compete in the over 3-liter class. The 3.0 CSL produced 206 horsepower for road use and over 300 horsepower in race guise. In 1973, the engine's stroke was increased, upping capacity to 3,153cc (nominally 3.2 liters).
From mid-season in 1973, the CSLs used the 'Batmobile' aerodynamic package, developed at Stuttgart University, which had a large rear wing, a front chin spoiler, and various other bodystyle changes. The package was not legal for road use in Germany, the wings were left in the boot for final installation after purchase.
From 1975 onwards, the BMW 'Batmobiles' won five consecutive European Touring Car championships.
This BMW 3.5-Liter Group 2 Competition Coupe was restored between 2007 and 2012. It was a 3.2CSL that had been prepared to full Group 2 specification. The 3.5-litre engine offers 246 horsepower. The car has been raced successfully in Europe in the Masters series, driven by Roger Wills, Joe Twyman and John Fitzpatrick.
In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Monaco sale presented by Bonhams. The car was estimated to sell for €120,000 - 150,000 but bidding failed to satisfy the vehicle's reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2012
2012 Bonhams - The Monaco Sale 'Les Grandes Marques à Monaco'
Pre-Auction Estimates :
€120,000-€150,000
Lot was not sold
Recent Sales of the BMW 3.5 CSL
(Data based on Model Year 1975 sales)
BMW 3.5 CSLs That Failed To Sell At Auction
1975 BMW 3.5 CSL's that have appeared at auction but did not sell.
| Vehicle | Chassis | Event | High Bid | Est. Low | Est. High |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 BMW CSL 3.5-Litre Group 2 Competition Coupé | 2240112 | 2012 Bonhams The Monaco Sale 'Les Grandes Marques à Monaco' | $120,000 | $150,000 |
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