BMW’s 3.0 CSL (E9), produced from 1971 to 1975, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to performance and innovation. Positioned in the premium coupe segment, this two-door coupé marked the inception of BMW’s Motorsport division, showcasing a blend of cutting-edge engineering and racing prowess.
The 3.0 CSL, or Coupe Sport Lightweight, was a remarkable iteration based on the 3.0 CSi chassis and body. It epitomized a shift towards high-performance and lightweight design. Stripping away ‘unnecessary’ trimmings and soundproofing systems, BMW’s engineers integrated all-aluminum components, resulting in a car that not only looked distinctive but also delivered exceptional performance on the road and track.
Powering the 1971 model was a 3.0L 6-cylinder inline engine, generating 180 horsepower. However, in 1973, BMW upgraded the powertrain to a more potent 3.2L unit, showcasing the brand’s commitment to constant improvement. The racing variant of the 3.0 CSL was equipped with a high-performance 3.5L engine and a Getrag five-speed gearbox, elevating its capabilities on the racing circuit.
Weight reduction was a key focus in the 3.0 CSL’s design philosophy. The car shed around 400 lbs compared to its predecessor, achieved through the use of aluminum in the opening panels and thinner gauge steel panels. Notably, the front bumper was omitted, and the rear bumper was a lightweight black polyester construction. Additional weight-saving measures included the removal of power steering and electric windows.
Limited to approximately 785 units, the 3.0 CSL made a lasting impact before its discontinuation in 1975. Its racing variant, in particular, achieved historic victories in the 1973 ETCC championship, securing both drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles by surpassing the formidable Ford Capri. The 6-Hours of Nurburgring also witnessed the CSL’s triumph.
The exterior of the CSL was adorned with four distinct colors: Colorado, Golf, Inka, and Verona. Interestingly, all models were left-hand-drive and were not available for purchase in the UK.
Delving into the technical specifications, the 3.0 CSL featured a 3.0L 4MT engine with 180 horsepower, delivered through a 4-speed manual gearbox to the rear-wheel-drive system. The car boasted impressive acceleration, reaching 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 132 mph.
The dimensions of the 3.0 CSL reflected a perfect balance of agility and style. With a length of 182.3 inches, a width of 71.3 inches, and a height of 53.9 inches, the car’s sleek profile was complemented by a wheelbase of 103.3 inches. Noteworthy features included ventilated discs in the front and rear, a tire size of 195/70 VR14, and a cargo volume of 15.9 cuFT.
The 3.0 CSL’s unladen weight of 2568 lbs contributed to its remarkable performance, further enhanced by a well-tuned suspension system and aerodynamic efficiency, with a Cd value of 0.4.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the 3.0 CSL achieved a combined rating of 21 mpg US (11.2 L/100Km), showcasing a balance between performance and practicality. Unfortunately, specific details about city fuel consumption were not available.
As a vintage icon from the early 1970s, the BMW 3.0 CSL (E9) remains a symbol of automotive excellence, blending sportiness, elegance, and pioneering engineering—a true masterpiece in the history of premium coupes.