For Sale: 1973 BMW 3.0CS in Saint Louis, Missouri

Few grand touring cars of the 1970s blended elegance, performance, and everyday usability as successfully as the BMW 3.0 CS. Introduced as part of BMW's graceful E9 coupe series, the 3.0 CS combined handsome pillarless styling by Karmann with refined engineering and lively six-cylinder performance. Long, low, and impeccably proportioned, the E9 quickly established itself as one of the most attractive sporting coupes of its era while helping define BMW's growing reputation for producing sophisticated driver's cars.
Beneath the bonnet resided BMW's smooth and flexible M30 overhead cam inline six, which endowed the 3.0 CS with effortless high speed touring capability and engaging road manners. Equally at home on winding back roads or autobahn journeys, the E9 offered a rare balance of sporting character and comfort. The model's competition success further elevated its standing, particularly through the legendary CSL racing cars that dominated European touring car competition during the decade.
This handsome 1973 BMW 3.0 CS is an exceptionally well documented example, boasting just three owners from new and a fascinating history that reflects decades of enthusiastic use and careful stewardship. Finished in its factory correct shade of Taiga Metallic over black velour upholstery with wood trim, the car presents with a warm and authentic character that perfectly suits the elegant E9 design.
Arguably the highlight of this 3.0 CS is its remarkable ownership story. In 1974, Edward Marzahn, USAF (Ret.), was stationed at RAF Mildenhall in England when he purchased the BMW from Christine May, a teacher with the Department of Defense Overseas School System. The car had reportedly been used as a demonstrator by her husband, Frank May, a British automobile dealer who specialized in selling tax free cars to American servicemen overseas. Though registered in Christine's name to maintain its tax free status, the BMW had effectively served as Frank's personal demonstrator from new. During his years abroad, Marzahn and his wife extensively toured Europe and the United Kingdom in the BMW, creating a wonderful archive of annotated photographs, route maps, and travel memories that accompany the car today.
When reassigned to the United States in 1977, Marzahn elected to bring the BMW home with him. By this point, the E9 had accumulated more than 45,000 miles through regular touring use across Europe. Upon arriving stateside, Marzahn embarked on another memorable journey, driving the BMW from Seattle to Little Rock, Arkansas, including a documented stop through Yellowstone National Park. The car continued to accompany the family throughout subsequent moves connected to his military retirement and later career with the FAA, serving faithfully during travels between Seattle, Oklahoma City, and Laramie, Wyoming.
In 2002, while residing in Wyoming, the Marzahns commissioned an extensive cosmetic restoration totaling approximately $23,000, addressing both the exterior and interior. The work has held up remarkably well in the years since, and the car continues to present beautifully today. In 2012, the BMW was acquired by its second owner, an avid collector of significant American and European sports cars, who has carefully maintained the car while preserving its highly original character.
Today, the Taiga Metallic finish retains excellent depth and luster, complemented by tasteful details including Hella fog lamps added during the Marzahn ownership. The cabin remains inviting and well preserved, while the complete factory tool kit remains in place in the boot. Mechanically, the M30 inline six performs exactly as one would hope, delivering the smooth power delivery, distinctive exhaust note, and balanced road manners that have long made the E9 such a rewarding driver's car.
Accompanied by an exceptional file of photographs, invoices, maps, and original sales literature, this three owner 3.0 CS represents a rare opportunity to acquire a deeply charming and wonderfully documented example of one of BMW's most admired postwar grand touring coupes


Offers welcome and trades considered.