Lot 40: BMW 3.0 CSA

In 1965, BMW introduced a coupé based on the 2000 saloon with rather futuristic looking styling and a body built by German coach building specialists, Karmann.  This was the basis for the 1968 2800CS with a longer wheelbase and a 2.8-litre version of the company's new six-cylinder engine.  Having recovered from a somewhat torrid post-war period, BMW had now established itself in the mainstream of the German motor industry and the new six-cylinder cars were encroaching on traditional Mercedes territory.  By 1971, this had evolved into a much improved car, the 3.0CS, still wearing the Karmann built body but powered by the new180bhp 3-litre engine and with a reworked chassis and 4-wheel disc brakes.  This was, of course, the basis for the now legendary CSL 'homologation special' that was to gain BMW much publicity on the saloon racing circuits of Europe.  Now quite a rarity, the 3.0CS outnumbered the CSL in production by more than 10:1 but the survival rate of the latter has undoubtedly been greater.This 1973 example has benefited from a long period of storage in a warm and dry garage.  Purchased from a friend by the current owner many years ago and kept for Sundays and occasional use, it was then laid-up in the garage when the owner started to spend extended periods abroad.  The engine was started and run occasionally and the tyres kept inflated and the car was kept covered, not venturing out for 21 years.  Finished in black with grey and black trim, the car is reported to be in running order and generally good condition though, undoubtedly, after such a period of rest some recommissioning will be required.