BMW 3.0CSL BATMOBILE
The BMW 3.0CSL BATMOBILE
By 1974, BMW Motorsport were eager to homologate their (then) competition only 3.5 litre engine for production-based racing. That homologation required the production of a run of larger engined road cars.
The result was the fitting of their 3.2 litre (3153 cc) engine to the 3.0 CSL which increased horsepower by 6bhp (to 206bhp) and also provided a small increase in torque.
In addition to the larger engine, Series 3 cars were in some cases (but not always) supplied with a package of aerodynamic appendages so dramatic that the name "Batmobile" was soon applied. That package consisted of a very large rear wing, a more traditional rear spoiler and front fender spats.
Although almost certainly overkill for the streets,those components (which were now homologated for production racing) proved enormously valuable in competition.
There were 167 Batmobiles built in total (including the series 3.5 cars) all of which were finished in wither Polaris silver or Chamonix white. Series 3.5 (serial numbers 4355001-4355057): Also Batmobiles, these cars are essentially identical to the Series 3 cars but incorporated several minor (and mostly cosmetic) changes.
There were 57 cars built.In many ways, the 3.0 CSL is the definitive post war BMW. For anyone with an appreciation of BMW's history, an original 3.0 CSL would represent a cherished possession. Unfortunately, the cars lack of any effective rustproofing has lead to a relatively low survival rate.
For those able either to locate a pristine car or to fund the restoration of a CSL in need of attention, their efforts should be well rewarded.
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