1973 BMW 3.0 CSL SPA #11 24Hr. (AUTOart) 1/18
The BMW 3.0 CSL was a lightweight, performance version of the standard 3.0 CS or 3.0 CSi coupe. It was originally developed in 1971 as an homologation model for the German Touring Car Championship by a separate division within BMW AG. This division was later incorporated as BMW Motorsport GmbH. The 3.0 CSL is generally considered to be the first M Series car, although it does not carry the M badge. The 'CS' suffix denotes 'Coupe Sport,' whilst the 'L' was added to this version of the 3.0 CS in order to denote 'Lightweight".
The car was fitted with an upgraded engine of just over 3 litres to permit further increases in capacity while still qualifying for Group 2 racing; the regulations stipulating that engines can only be enlarged without penalty within their homologated class. Peak output quoted was 200 bhp (DIN) at 5,500 rpm.
BMW developed four versions of the 3.0 CSL model over five years, all to European specifications. The original '71 models utilized the standard 2,985-cc M30 engine with twin carburetors and was produced only in left-hand drive. A fuel-injected model displacing 3,003 cc replaced the earlier carbuerted version and was produced in both left-hand and right-hand drive versions between 1972 and 1973. The final version of the 3.0 SAL, in left-hand drive only and with a larger 3,153 cc engine, was built in tow distinct production runs between 1973 and 1975. A total of 708 left-hand drive units and 500 right-hand drive units were built.
AUTOart Diecast Model No. 87347 - As driven by Chris AMON / Hans-Joachim STUCK
