1973 BMW 3.0 CSL Coupe

Development of the 3.0 CSL was in response to BMW's desire to enter the European Touring Car Championship beginning in 1971. To meet homologation standards, as set forth by the FIA, a certain number of 'street' cars had to be built utilizing the components intended for racing purposes. For the 1973 racing season 100 cars were built to meet the FIA regulations. Features included alloy doors, hood and trunk, deletion of sound deadening materials, thinner gauge steel bodies and an increase in engine capacity to 3.3 liters which all together reduced the weight by over 300 kg. In addition, aerodynamic splitters on the front fenders, a front spoiler in place of the bumper, a full width wing across the rear trunk lid and a directional wind vane across the rear of the roof pane gave it a distinctive look - so much so it earned its moniker of 'Batmobile'. Due to German road laws, the aerodynamic aids were prohibited from being installed at the factory. Consequently these aids were delivered in the trunk of the car to be installed by the local dealer.