1974 BMW 3.0CSi
The Neue Klasse rebirth of BMW in the 1960s led BMW into one of their most creative, iconic, and successful eras. During this rebirth, BMW was changing the brand's reputation from a value for money economy car manufacturer to quality & performance focused, sport-driven machines. Thanks to the 2000C and CS models, the E9 chassis was born, and began life as 2800CS in 1968. With offerings such as the 2800, the 3.0CS/CSI, and the iconic CSL-more frequently named "Batmobile", the E9 is a beloved BMW collector enthusiast’s platform. It is the top of the BMW line for this era and exemplifies the achievements of BMW’s corporate rethink: exceptional design, 6 cylinder smoothness, performance, and that BMW trademark blend of superb roadholding even on the roughest roads & ride quality all of which make for satisfying high speed classic motoring experiences.
This 1974 3.0 CSI is offered with its original Bosch fuel injected engine offering solid performance gains over its carbureted siblings, a smooth shifting 4 speed Getrag manual gearbox, sunroof, original to CSI models occupant gripping, black velour seats & a host of other refinements. The 3.0 CSI engine delivers 200hp at 5500 RPM, and much improved running & response over the more common carburetor equipped editions of the 2800 & 3.0CS variants. It is the one to have if a CS BMW E9 fits into your collection. Introduced in September of 1971, the CSI was in immediate E9 platform upgrade success. BMW was still a relatively small car company then. They did their best but only managed to produce as total of 8,199 cars before production ended in early 1975 leaving unfilled orders on the table. It is believed that only 579 3.0CSi's were produced in 1974. Suffice it to say that these “last of production” examples are the best of the line, rare and not often found.
This CSI is a superb, solid and well cared for Euro-spec example. It is a 5 enthusiast owner vehicle showing 140,280 kilometers (85,000 miles approx.), and was exported from Germany in 1981. Recent service records include a thorough fuel system service, substantial braking system restoration, comprehensive suspension wear correction, in addition to new weatherstripping and headliner replacement. It runs and drives beautifully, and includes exceptional documentation from owners over the years. It’s a terrific example & the car stands ready to deliver its next owner years of enjoyable classic BMW performance motoring.
