1965 BMW 3200CS Coupe

The CS, meaning Coupe Sport, featured a powerful V8 engine and a special 507 rear axle. The design and building of the body was tasked to Bertone. In 1961, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the BMW 3200CS was unveiled and the first cars were delivered by February of 1962.

The V8 OHV engine displaced 3168cc and produced 160 horsepower at 5600 RPM. It was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox and had disc brakes in the front. Many of the vehicles styling cues would make their way into later BMW models such as the slim roof section, distinctive C pillar, and the round taillights with central indicators.

The BMW CS carried a price tag of $7,500 which meant it was intended for an exclusive clientele. Many of the cars were customized to suite customer specifications. After just 603 examples were created, BMW halted production. Their New Class of vehicles were enjoying tremendous success while their hand-built CS models were very expensive to build.

This 1965 BMW 3200CS was given a restoration in the late 1990s and painted in dark blue. The V8 engine was refurbished and all of the gauges, wooden dashboard, and 507-inspired steering wheel are in working condition. It has a factory electric sunroof, Becker Mexico radio, and a floor-mounted 4-speed.

After its restoration was completed, it was shown at the 2000 BMW Oktoberfest where it was awarded 'People's Choice' and first place in the concours competition. In 2001 it was awarded the Featured Marque Award at the Concours d'Elegance of the Easter US in Pennsylvania.

It is believed that around 50 examples of the 603 examples produced are still in existence. In 2007 this 3200CS was brought to the Gooding & Company auction held in Pebble Beach, California where it was estimated to sell for $105,000 - $135,000. Those estimates proved accurate as the lot was sold for $126,500 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008