BMW 3.0 CS/CSi/CSL
The elegant Karmann-built coupe that became a racing icon as the aero-winged "Batmobile."
The E9 coupes paired an Italian-influenced Karmann-built body with BMW's smooth inline-six, evolving from the 2800CS into the fuel-injected 3.0 CSi and finally the lightweight, aero-equipped CSL — a homologation special built to win Group 2 European Touring Car Championship races.
History
The 2800CS launched in 1968 as a refined, six-cylinder grand tourer with a body built by coachbuilder Karmann. It established the E9's reputation for effortless high-speed cruising and understated elegance.
The 3.0 CS and fuel-injected 3.0 CSi followed with larger engines and, in CSi form, Bosch electronic fuel injection for improved response and output.
The CSL ("Coupe Sport Leichtbau," or lightweight) used aluminum body panels, thinner glass, and stripped-out interior trim to shed weight for racing. Later CSLs added dramatic front and rear spoilers and a roof-mounted fin so extreme that they were initially considered illegal for German road use — earning the car its lasting "Batmobile" nickname.
Notable Versions
3.0 CSL "Batmobile"
Full aero package with front air dam, fender flares, and roof/trunk spoilers. Built for Group 2 touring car racing.
3.0 CSi
Bosch electronic fuel injection replacing the carbureted CS, improving both output and drivability.
BMW Art Car (1975)
A 3.0 CSL race car painted by Alexander Calder became the first entry in BMW's long-running Art Car program.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Rust is severe and widespread on E9 coupes
Thin steel in the floors, trunk floor, and rear quarters rusts badly. A car that looks solid can still have serious hidden corrosion — a specialist inspection is strongly recommended.
CSL lightweight panels are fragile and hard to source
Aluminum body panels on genuine CSLs are expensive to repair or replace if damaged, and reproduction parts are limited.
Verify the CSi injection system is complete and functional
Early Bosch injection components are increasingly scarce; missing parts are a significant expense.
Confirm authenticity against BMW records given high forgery risk
Genuine CSLs command a large premium over standard CS/CSi cars, which has led to conversions being sold as the real thing.
Check for prior racing damage
Many E9 coupes, particularly CSLs, have competition history. Ask directly and inspect the chassis for repair evidence.
Quick Specs
- Engine
- 2.8–3.2L SOHC I6
- Horsepower
- 180–206 hp (CSL)
- Wheelbase
- 103.3 in
- Weight
- approx. 2,650–2,900 lbs (CSL lightened)
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
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