BMW 3.0 CSL '73

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

3,153 cc

DriveTrain

FR

Height

1,370 mm

Length

4,660 mm

Weight

1,250 kg

Width

1,730 mm

Max Power

202 BHP / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque

29.2 kgfm / 4,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 423.95

Manufacturer

BMW

BMW 3.0 CSL '73 – The Legendary Bavarian Touring Car Icon

The BMW 3.0 CSL '73 stands as one of the most iconic and revered vehicles in motorsport history, especially within the realm of touring car racing. Introduced in the early 1970s, the 'CSL' designation stands for 'Coupé Sport Leichtbau', emphasizing the lightweight construction that set this model apart from its competitors. Using aluminum for the hood, trunk, and doors, along with the absence of soundproofing and trim, BMW managed to produce a car that was both incredibly agile and powerful. Under the hood, a robust 3.0-liter straight-six engine provided the perfect blend of performance and reliability, making it a favorite among both enthusiasts and professional drivers.

Distinguished by its long hood, muscular wheel arches, and signature aerodynamic aids—including the large rear wing that earned it the nickname 'Batmobile'—the BMW 3.0 CSL captured attention both on the street and on the racetrack. This model became inseparably linked with the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC), where it dominated the 1973 season and beyond. The 3.0 CSL triumphed with six drivers’ championships between 1973 and 1979, cementing its status as a motorsport legend. The car's legacy was fortified by the efforts of BMW Motorsport GmbH, which was formed specifically to spearhead factory-backed racing efforts. The success of the 3.0 CSL on the track propelled BMW's motorsport division to global prominence.

Apart from motorsport, the BMW 3.0 CSL '73 had significant influence on BMW's brand image and subsequent road cars. Its sporting credentials and distinctive looks helped shape the company’s reputation for building 'the ultimate driving machines.' Limited production figures and racing pedigree have made the 3.0 CSL highly collectible, with restored examples fetching premium prices at auction. Today, the 3.0 CSL remains an enduring symbol of BMW’s engineering excellence, combining thrilling performance, innovative technology, and timeless design to leave a permanent mark in automotive history.