1973 BMW 3.0 CSi Coupe

The 2800CS was the first of the E9 lineage and was introduced in 1969 with a lengthened wheelbase compared to previous BMWs, making space for the 3.0-liter M30 engine. The 3.0 CS and CSi followed in 1971, endowed with greater power than the earlier E9. This particular 3.0 CS model wears the famous 'M' logo upon its engine, coupled with a manual shifter. Karmann built the bodywork of every E9, and this example wears the karosserie identification tag. It is finished in metallic blue over an interior that was retrimmed in tan leather by Cook's Upholstery, Redwood City, California, in 2004, at which point a CSL steering wheel was added. A custom stainless-steel exhaust was installed in 2005.

Many of the mechanical components have been overhauled with the installation of a BMW S38B38 motor and a rebuilt five-speed transmission from a European-spec M5. The engine received performance upgrades by Koala Motorsports of Ohio, featuring a 3.8-liter stroker kit, custom connecting rods and piston heads from Memphis Motorworks for a claimed potential of more than 400 bhp. A limited differential from an E30 M3 was installed, and the transmission conversion was carried out by La Jolla Independent in California to the cost of over $9,000.

The current owner acquired the BMW in December of 2013 and it has remained in California since that time. The owner has installed Alpina-look alloy wheels supplied by Coupe King of Long Beach, California, brake upgrades, a lightweight battery, stereo upgrade with Bluetooth connectivity, replacement window motors from a 328i, and new custom-wound coil springs.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2021