1972 BMW 3.0 CS Coupe

The early 20th century auto industry was a tumultuous time. Companies appeared. Companies vanished. Bicycle makers, carriage builders, tinkerers and dreams all contributed to this rich tapestry that embodied those hardscrabble formative years. After World War I, German manufacturing was severely restricted and many companies were sold, reorganized or simply padlocked. Into this milieu BMW was born. Following Rapp Motorenwerke aircraft's restructuring, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG - or Bavarian Motor Works - was formed in 1917. BMW was forbidden from building aircraft engines; their predecessor's bread-and-butter. So, they focused on products like railway brakes. When treaty restrictions eased they shifted to motorcycles, and eventually automobiles.

Ask any Wall Street Master of the Universe; of course BMW has always been the ultimate driving machine. Though actually it wasn't until 1975 when, through their advertising, they really became The Ultimate Driving Machine. And never has a tagline fit a brand better than that one. The early 20th century was a tumultuous time for the fledgling auto industry. Companies were created. Companies disappeared. Bicycle makers, carriage builders, tinkerers and dreamers all contributed to this rich tapestry that embodied those hardscrabble formative years. After WWI, German manufacturers were severely restricted and many companies were sold, reorganized or simply padlocked. Into this milieu BMW was born.

Their performance pedigree is well-earned from wins at the Mille Miglia to numerous checkered flags at LeMans, Nurburgring and Spa and Daytona. All have served to further solidify BMW's status as a sporty driver's car.

Coachbuilder Karmann built the E9 CS (Coupe Sport) for BMW in the 1970s. About 400 reached United States shores in 1972. This car was originally imported to California where it remained for over 38 years. It has never been restored, is finished in Fjord Blue and enjoys a top speed north of 124 mph. The car has black Connelly leather, factory AC, a sunroof and window shades. It has had just three owners.