In 1972 BMW introduced the 3.0 CSL, a homologation special in the tradition of the 1800 TiSa and the 2002 Turbo. With increasing engine displacements and a progression of aerodynamic modifications, the CSL became the grist for the marque’s competition forays through 1976. Tremendously successful and beautiful to behold, the CSL was a proven race-winner in the European Touring Car Championship, German Touring Car, and FIA Group 5 events, and the American IMSA Camel GT series. Over the ensuing years, the race victories of this unique model have been overshadowed by its famous nickname, “Batmobile”—easily attributed to its distinctive, homologation aero kit. Production of the 3.0 CSL “Bats” were split into two different runs between December 1971 and December 1975. The first run of 110 3.0-liter cars was available in either white or silver, and the second run of just 57 3.2-liter cars were available in all factory colors.

BATMOBILE 49

This stunning Taiga Metallic over black leather example offered here is the 49th of those 57 Series II Batmobiles produced. One of just four examples reportedly painted this striking color, it was delivered new to Höss BMW in Memmingen, Bavaria on 5 June 1975.

Some years later it was sold to Robert Picut of Green Brook, New Jersey, and registered with the plate “BUY 67G.” By 1992, Picut had sold it to Marco Kögel, founder and president of the BMW CSL Club, and this Batmobile thusly returned to its home country. Kögel then treated his new acquisition to the thorough restoration which it still wears today. Shortly after completing the restoration, he sold this CSL to a French BMW enthusiast in 2004. They retained the car until 2009, from whom it was purchased by a noted collector in the United Kingdom. Since 2012, the car has remained within North America—always owned by passionate and careful BMW enthusiasts.

Under previous ownership, CSL specialists at The Werk Shop in Libertyville, Illinois were retained to perform minor mechanical repairs. A set of the correct 14-inch Alpina-style wheels were sourced, and a reproduction center support for the rear wing was ordered (but not installed; it accompanies the sale). In 2017, this Batmobile was acquired by the consignor, then indicating 83 miles, which presumably represented the distance covered since its restoration.

As presented today this rarified, very late second-series “Batmobile” retains many interesting features and options throughout including Scheel sport seats, power steering, electric rear windows, homologation aero kit, aluminum doors and hood, and steel trunk. The car also retains its numbers-matching 3.2-liter engine, making this CSL quite remarkable—notwithstanding its globetrotting provenance and striking color.