The CSL model came to the UK in June 1973, and 500 examples were imported upto mid 1974. The CSL was a homologation special to enable BMW to use these lightweight cars (based on the CSi road car) in competition, for example the European Touring Car Championship. All coupes were built by Karmann, who were based in Osnabruck, the mechanical parts being shipped direct from Munich. Some 30 years after production ended, many parts are still available from BMW to keep these classic E9 series coupes on the road.
A superb, original specification E9 3.0 CSL in Fjord Blue. Wearing chassis number 430 of 500 hand-built cars, this rare example of BMW’s lightweight classic was extensively restored in the early 90s. Very well presented with no visible signs of corrosion in any of the key areas, a tidy interior and smart engine bay, this particular CSL is ready to drive in its current condition.
Paint and Bodywork
The overall condition is very good. The bright-work is well above average with window trim, waist mouldings, wheel arches and rear bumper in superb condition. The Fjord Blue paintwork is average; although overall the paint is more than acceptable, the car would benefit from being repainted. We estimate the cost of this to be around £5,000. All panels are in good condition with no major dents or scratches. All window glass is in excellent condition. The car still carries the original BMW roundels. The 14” wheels have been newly refurbished and are currently wearing Yokohama 195/70 tyres. Panel gaps and shut-lines are of an average standard taking into account the age and hand-built nature of the car. The doors and boot close well and with little difficulty.
Interior
The seats are whole and still covered in the original Scheel material. Although some of the bolsters are beginning to show signs of age the general condition of the seats makes them perfectly usable. The car is fitted with headrests. The vinyl side bolsters are in need of minor attention; but there are no rips or major defects. The wood trim is in above average condition with no missing elements, cracking or scratches. Door cards and vinyl trim are in excellent condition, as are the headlining and rear parcel shelf. There are no trims or other major items missing from the interior. The steering wheel is the original 3-spoke, drilled CSL wheel and the gear lever is the correct leather knob with roundel. The floor mats and carpets are complete but are not the original CSL specification items. The electric window motors are tired and in need of attention. The heater controls and other functions are working correctly. The boot interior is above average, with the original boot floor and boot lid trim intact.
Engine Bay
The engine bay is in good condition and displays the correct stickers etc. All the various trim items are present. The expansion tank, fan, air filter etc. are all the correct colours and specification.
Engine and Mechanicals
This CSL starts, drives and stops very well. The idle is consistent and runs at the correct revolutions. The engine pulls strongly through its original 4-speed gearbox and shows no major signs of wear. The car runs consistently at the correct temperature. The wipers work well (for a CSL!) and all lights, heated screen,and internal heating systems are in good working order. Our technical team have completed a “Hit List”, and the car will be delivered in very good running order. The suspension has been fully inspected and any elements at fault will be rectified as part of the PDi.
The car has a current MOT and will have a full oil/safety inspection prior to delivery.
History, Mileage and Provenance
The odometer currently reads 88,370 miles, although this cannot be officially verified. The car has matching engine and chassis numbers and comes with a good deal of paperwork, including details of the restoration carried out and 1991 and 1992. This project included a bare shell repaint, and replacement inner and outer front wings, sills, and boot floor, with extensive repairs being carried out on any areas showing corrosion. The engine was completely dismantled with the block re-bored and crankshaft reground; other extensive engine work was also carried out at that time. At that stage the car had new front and rear screens, new sill covers, rubber seals and extensive chrome trim replacement. The braking and suspension was entirely overhauled; this work was carried out for the customer by Chris Moughton, BMW specialist in Lechlade. The same BMW specialists maintained the car for over 15 years. The car is supplied with many MOT certificates, which help to confirm that the mileage recorded on the car should be accurate. Many of the previous owners are recorded with the paperwork provided with the car.
Viewing of this exciting and sought after car is highly recommended; original specification E9 CSLs in this condition are rare indeed. Please ring 01825 740456 to arrange a viewing or for more information.