To Be OFFERED AT AUCTIONEstimate:
$60,000 - $80,000
- Wonderfully cared-for and painstakingly maintained example
- Offered by second owner after over 33 years of stewardship
- Upgraded to five-speed manual transmission
- U.S.-delivery car; fitted with European bumpers
- Accompanied by invoices, tool kit, and spare wheel
In 1968 BMW introduced the wildly popular E9 series in the form of
the 2800 CS coupe. Successor to the important Neue Klasse coupes,
the 2800 CS was clothed in sleek coachwork by Karmann and brought
six-cylinder power to the lineup. 1971, an improved follow-up, the
3.0 CS was introduced. As its name suggests, it was powered a
larger 3.0-liter inline-six, and it was also equipped with
four-wheel disc brakes (the 2800 CS had retained rear drums).
Capable of 130-mph performance, the 3.0 CS became the basis of the
homologation special 3.0 CSL, which garnered a spate of competition
victories for the marque-including six European Touring Car
Championships between 1973 and 1979 and class wins at Le Mans, Spa,
and Daytona.
This wonderful U.S.-delivery 1974 BMW 3.0 CS demonstrates the
model's enduring appeal. In 1987, the car was acquired by its
second owner, and has remained in their possession ever since.
Recognizing its significance, the owner has continuously kept the
car in a climate-controlled environment. In 2009, it underwent a
partial restoration, replacing rubber components, interior leather,
vinyl, wood, aluminum trim, window motors, and plastic components,
all of which were new old stock parts acquired directly from German
suppliers. Further, the car's chrome was refinished, headliner
replaced, and a NOS OEM windshield and rear window installed.
The car was also finished in the lovely BMW factory color of
Nachtblau at a cost of over $18,000. The cream leather interior
nicely compliments the exterior color-the same color combination
proudly displayed in the original 1974 3.0 CS sales brochure.
Adding to the car's long list of attributes, the interior is
equipped with a factory electric sunroof and period-correct
aftermarket Nardi steering wheel, while the exterior sports
European bumpers. For even greater driving pleasure, the car has
been fitted with an upgraded Metric Mechanic Inc five-speed manual
transmission, with fewer than 5,000 miles accrued since the
swap.
Accompanied by a host of invoices, tools, and spare wheel, this
1974 BMW 3.0 CS has not only withstood the test of time from a
design and engineering standpoint; it also reflects the dedication
of its long-term owner, making it a particularly desirable example
of an important model from the German marque. To view this car and
others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/0520.
