Introducing the new BMW 3.0 CSL: A racing legend reinvented

The BMW 3.0 CSL combines a unique design with a puristic performance experience in two seats. It conveys to the present day in an extremely focused manner the concept created in the 1970s of applying racetrack technology designed for sheer driving pleasure on the road. The supercar was developed with the intention of combining the best of five decades of racing expertise from BMW M GmbH in an automobile with a highly emotional aura.

All facets of its character—dynamic exterior elegance, a classic sportscar cockpit, intelligent lightweight construction, a straight six-cylinder engine, manual transmission and rear-wheel drive—are based on traditional principles of a BMW M automobile.

They complement each other with the help of the latest technology to create the ultimate symbol of fascination for top performance in the style of the brand that has been successful for 50 years. A ride in a BMW 3.0 CSL is therefore not only an exclusive high-performance experience but also an emotional encounter with the history and the present of the world’s most powerful letter.

As the reincarnation of a legendary sports car both for the racetrack and the road, the BMW 3.0 CSL possesses all the characteristics of a puristic car. It embodies the joy of classic driving and an awareness of the traditional roots of BMW M GmbH in a uniquely exclusive form.

Its eponymous role model is considered the first automobile to carry the DNA for maximum driving pleasure and passion, an unmistakable feature of BMW M automobiles to this very day. The racing version of the historic BMW 3.0 CSL won the European Touring Car Championship during its inaugural season in 1973— and repeated this title win five more times in succession from 1975 to 1979.

In addition to wide wheel arches, its coupe-shaped body also received an eye-catching aerodynamics package, which included a front spoiler, air bars on the front side panels and a roof spoiler. Completing the design modifications vs. the other coupes in BMW large series was a rear wing that optimised the grip of the rear wheels.

It was not approved for road use and therefore lay in the boot when the vehicle was delivered, but nevertheless received much public attention so that the Coupe was given the nickname “Batmobile”. With an increased displacement of 3,153 cubic centimetres and a maximum output of 151 kW/206 hp, the most powerful straight six-cylinder engine with direct injection ever used in a BMW model ensured sporty power delivery.

The new BMW 3.0 CSL is the contemporary reinterpretation of all these features anchored in its model designation. Its coupe-shaped body sets traditional accents for sporty elegance and expressive dynamics. Its drive and suspension technology stems from the latest developments for racing cars and high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH.

Power and athleticism are signalised by the front end of the BMW 3.0 CSL, which sits low on the road. At its centre is the distinctive BMW kidney grille with a lattice-shaped insert in a diamond structure. Its upright position relates to the front design of its historic ancestor.

Muscular wheel arches give indication of the large track widths that contribute significantly to the vehicle’s high cornering dynamics. They offer space for the forged light-alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design, these being 20 inches on the front axle and 21 inches at the rear. With their filigree spokes, a gold-coloured paint finish in the style of the 1970s and a centre lock, they represent a highlight in terms of design and driving dynamics adapted directly from racing.

The integration of the model-specific wheels into the pre-assembled axles of the BMW 3.0 CSL is part of the manufacturing process at the BMW Group’s Dingolfing plant. At 930 Nm, the torque applied during the assembly of the centre locks achieves the highest value for a BMW Group production vehicle.

With its classic coupe proportions and a traditional vehicle concept that combines a front engine and manual transmission with rear-wheel drive, the BMW 3.0 CSL follows in the footsteps of its historic ancestor. Distinctive air deflection elements, powerfully shaped wheel arches, a striking rear spoiler and numerous other details are unmistakably based on the design of the legendary coupe from the 1970s.

At the same time, its appearance is characterised by the principles that have always applied to BMW M automobiles: the specific exterior features are based on the technical requirements in terms of cooling air supply, aerodynamic balance and driving dynamics, which form the basis for highly fascinating performance. In this way, the BMW 3.0 CSL expresses timeless racing passion in an emotional and authentic way.

To mark the anniversary, exactly 50 consecutively numbered units of the special model will go on sale.