Description

1973 BMW 3.0 CSL – Factory City Package, Matching-Numbers, Meticulously Restored, One Owner Since 2001

This 1973 BMW E9 3.0 CSL is a matching-numbers, factory-original CSL delivered new with the rare City Package and restored to an exceptional standard over nearly a decade. Finished in red over a black interior, this left-hand-drive example retains its original 3.0-liter inline-six engine, verified by a BMW Classic Certificate confirming its authenticity. With just one owner since 2001, only 34,598 miles, and a restoration that prioritized originality and quality, this CSL is a standout in the rarefied world of homologation-era BMWs.

Built on November 6, 1972, this chassis (#2275064) is part of the limited production run of only 1,265 total CSLs (LHD and RHD), a figure that continues to shrink due to accidents, racing history, and corrosion. As a result, truly correct, well-documented examples like this one are now exceedingly rare.

History and Provenance

The current owner acquired the car in 2001 and, after several years of enjoyment, initiated a full nut-and-bolt restoration in 2007. The process spanned nearly nine years, completed in 2016, due to the careful sourcing of correct and rare CSL-specific components. The work was carried out with uncompromising attention to detail using only original parts, ensuring authenticity throughout. From the undercarriage to the engine bay, interior, and bodywork, every aspect of the car presents in near-new condition.

Included in the sale is a BMW certificate verifying this is an original CSL with its original engine, and the correct chassis number prefix “2275”, which was unique to CSL models. The car was delivered from the factory with the City Package, which added comfort features such as sound insulation, power windows, and chrome bumpers—making it one of the more livable CSL configurations.

Exterior

The body has been refinished in striking Silver Blue during the restoration and shows excellent panel fit, gloss, and trim detailing. The car is equipped with a factory front spoiler, and the optional rear boot spoiler (fully restored) is included but currently not mounted. Completing the look are 16-inch Alpina wheels, fitted to enhance handling and visual presence. Chrome trim, glass, and lighting elements remain in exceptional condition, reflecting the quality and completeness of the restoration.

Interior

Inside, the CSL features a restored black interior with factory-correct upholstery and trim. All gauges, switches, and controls present cleanly and function properly. The car is fitted with an original Alpina shift knob, adding to its period-correct character. As part of the City Package, the interior benefits from enhanced insulation and comfort features, distinguishing it from lighter, more stripped-down racing variants while still retaining the essential CSL DNA.

Powertrain and Mechanical

Under the hood lies the original 3.0-liter (3003cc) inline-six, factory-rated at 200 horsepower, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Both the engine and transmission have been fully rebuilt as part of the restoration. The CSL’s lightweight construction and performance-tuned setup make it one of the most iconic BMW coupes ever produced. Suspension components were refreshed during restoration, and handling is notably improved with the fitment of 16-inch wheels—a subtle but effective performance enhancement.

Legacy and Significance

The BMW 3.0 CSL was first shown at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show as a homologation special for the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC). Built by Karmann and developed by a separate team within BMW—later known as BMW Motorsport GmbH (BMW M)—the CSL is often regarded as the first true M car, laying the foundation for BMW’s motorsport and high-performance legacy.

The CSL name stands for “Coupe Sport Leichtbau” (lightweight coupe), and despite this example being equipped with the City Package, it still retains many of the performance attributes and hand-built craftsmanship that define the model. With BMW’s famous tri-color Motorsport stripes becoming a later signature, the CSL set the tone for decades of M division excellence.

Summary

This 1973 BMW 3.0 CSL is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic and collectible classic BMWs ever built. With a matching-numbers engine, verified BMW certificate, and a documented, long-term restoration completed to an extremely high standard using original parts, this example represents the very best of what a CSL can be. It is a true homologation legend—built for the road, born for the track, and restored for the future.

Ready to be driven, shown, or added to a top-tier collection, this CSL stands as a reference-grade example of one of BMW’s most historically significant models.

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