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1972 BMW CSL FIA Group 2

1972 BMW CSL FIA Group 2

This 1972 BMW CSL FIA Group 2 is one of the original BMW factory CSL race cars, known as “Batmobiles”. Considered the first product of the fledgling BMW Motorsports Division under a young Bob Lutz and later Jochen Neerpasch.

In the 1973 24 hours of LeMans it received First in Touring Class and 11th overall with Dieter Quester, Toine Hezemans and Hans Stuck driving. The same team won the 1973 European Sedan Championship for Quester and Hezemans.  In 1974 the car was campaigned by John Buffum and others in the SCCA TransAm Series and later the IMSA GT. The car was restored by CLS expert Richard Conway and actively raced by the current owner in Vintage and Historic races in the US and abroad.

The 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL FIA Group 2 is a legendary sports car that holds a special place in automotive history due to its impressive performance, innovative engineering, and significant success in racing. Nicknamed the "Batmobile" for its distinctive aerodynamic modifications, the 3.0 CSL (Coupé Sport Leichtbau) was developed to compete in the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) and became a dominant force in motorsports.

Overview
  • Production Year: 1972
  • Manufacturer: BMW
  • Model: 3.0 CSL FIA Group 2
Design and Specifications
  • Engine:
    • The 3.0 CSL is powered by a 3.0-liter (2990 cc) inline-six engine.
    • In Group 2 racing specification, the engine produced around 340 horsepower.
    • The engine featured a sophisticated fuel injection system, enhancing performance and responsiveness.
  • Transmission:
    • The car is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission.
    • The gearbox is designed for precise and quick gear changes, crucial for competitive racing.
  • Chassis:
    • The CSL is built on a lightweight and reinforced steel monocoque chassis.
    • Extensive use of aluminum and other lightweight materials was employed to reduce weight, earning it the "Leichtbau" (lightweight) designation.
    • The wheelbase measures 103.5 inches, contributing to the car's stability and handling.
  • Suspension:
    • The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts with coil springs and anti-roll bars.
    • The rear suspension features a semi-trailing arm design with coil springs and anti-roll bars.
    • This setup offers excellent handling and stability, essential for high-speed racing.
  • Brakes:
    • The 3.0 CSL is equipped with four-wheel ventilated disc brakes.
    • These brakes provide powerful and reliable stopping power, crucial for racing conditions.
Performance
  • Top Speed: The 3.0 CSL Group 2 can achieve a top speed of approximately 170 mph (273 km/h).
  • Acceleration: The powerful inline-six engine and lightweight construction deliver impressive acceleration, with 0-60 mph times in the low 5-second range.
  • Handling: The 3.0 CSL offers exceptional handling, with responsive steering and a balanced chassis, making it well-suited for both tight corners and high-speed straights.
Design Features
  • Bodywork:
    • The 3.0 CSL features a distinctive and aerodynamic body designed for both performance and aesthetics.
    • The car is equipped with large front and rear spoilers, widened fenders, and a rear wing, contributing to its "Batmobile" nickname.
    • The lightweight aluminum and fiberglass body panels reduce overall weight and improve performance.
  • Interior:
    • The interior of the 3.0 CSL is spartan and focused on functionality, with racing seats and minimalistic controls.
    • The dashboard features essential gauges and switches, emphasizing the car's performance-oriented design.
  • Styling:
    • The styling of the 3.0 CSL is a blend of aggressive racing elements and classic BMW design cues.
    • The car's design emphasizes both aerodynamics and aesthetics, contributing to its enduring appeal and status as a design icon.
Racing Heritage and Historical Significance
  • Historical Significance:
    • The 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL FIA Group 2 represents an important period in BMW's history, showcasing the company's dedication to producing high-performance racing cars.
    • It was developed to comply with FIA Group 2 regulations and to compete in the ETCC, where it achieved significant success.
  • Racing Achievements:
    • The 3.0 CSL won multiple ETCC championships and numerous races, establishing BMW's reputation in touring car racing.
    • Its success on the track contributed to the development of BMW's "M" performance division, which continues to produce high-performance vehicles today. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1972 BMW CSL FIA Group 2 in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.

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