The automotive world rarely offers a chance to own a piece of true racing history, but one such opportunity has emerged: a 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL Werks development car is now available for sale. This vehicle isn’t just a classic; it’s the first car built by BMW Motorsport – the division that would become synonymous with high-performance engineering.
The Genesis of BMW M
The early 1970s were a period of intense competition in the automotive industry, pushing manufacturers to innovate. BMW responded by establishing a factory-backed race team under the leadership of Bob Lutz. This initiative led directly to the creation of the first “M” car, designed to compete on the track while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of road-car performance.
The E9/R1, as this specific model is designated, was one of 21 CSL Werks cars constructed between late 1972 and early 1973. Eleven of these were actively raced by BMW’s factory team. This particular vehicle also played a crucial role in the development of the iconic “Batmobile” Aero kit – a design element that would define BMW’s racing heritage for years to come.
From Track to Private Collection
After a brief but competitive run in the 1973 season, BMW Motorsport sold the E9/R1 to an American racing team for the 1974 IMSA championship. Following its single season in IMSA competition, the car was sold off and eventually found its way into a private BMW collection in the early 1980s. The current owner acquired it in the mid-1990s and has since overseen an extensive restoration, prioritizing the preservation of its original components.
The car has remained largely out of public view for over three decades, though it did participate in the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed and was displayed at the 2025 Salon Prive Concours D’Elegance, fully equipped with the Batmobile kit. The rarity of a development vehicle surviving this long with its original parts intact makes this car an exceptionally valuable piece for collectors.
A Legacy Reimagined
BMW recently honored the CSL lineage with a limited-edition run of 50 new 3.0 CSL models. These modern iterations boast a 553-horsepower twin-turbocharged inline-six engine and retain the signature Batmobile-inspired wing.
The original E9/R1, however, is powered by a larger 3.5-liter inline-six engine, reportedly producing over 400 horsepower. The listing does not disclose the asking price; serious buyers must apply for details. This vehicle represents a unique opportunity to own not just a car, but a foundational piece of automotive history.
Owning this car is owning a legacy. It’s a reminder that innovation and competition have always pushed automotive engineering forward.
The price will likely be astronomical, but for the right collector, it’s a chance to own something truly irreplaceable.
