Lot 522: 1971 BMW CS 2800 Coupé

The 1968-launched 2500/2800 were the first BMW models to use the next generation of 6-cylinder engines, essentially fours with two extra cylinders added. As with their smaller engines, the new sixes were slanted at 30 degrees to ensure a low bonnet line. Bodies were either the 4-door Sports-Saloon or a very shapely 2800CS 4-Seater Coupé, the ancestor of the 6 Series Coupés made up to 1989, while the new cars benefited from disc brakes all round and power steering. Also made in ‘Batmobile’ competition form, the BMW Coupé enjoyed a successful reign in European Touring Car Championship events 1973-1976.

According to an original Kraftfahrzeugbrief document, this BMW CS 2800 with factory-fitted Alpina front spoiler left the Munich factory 26 February 1971, remaining in German ownership for 36 years, until 21 February 2007 when a Birmingham DVLA stamp records current UK registration. A change from left to right-hand drive with specially fabricated tubular exhaust manifold was recently undertaken by BMW E9 specialists CCK, who also replaced the rear telescopic shock absorbers. Having extensively road tested the conversion, the Sussex firm report that the Bavarian Coupé with 2.8-litre six and manual transmission is a really good driving car.

Partially repainted in Blood Orange, the 2-door fixed head with factory steel sunroof, black seat leather, wood dash, new carpets and electric windows, rides on wider and refurbished Alpina wheels. In addition to the air dam, a lightweight Alpina rear bumper has been fitted, whilst the tool tray, located inside the boot-lid, is present as are some of the contents. The current MoT is valid until next January and the V5C confirms eligibility for a Historic Vehicle tax disc.