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Curated Auction

1972 BMW 3.0 CSL “Supercharged” (E9)

At a Glance

36 Year Ownership | Supercharger Upgrade | Original & Rare Car | Meticulous Ownership

  • Mileage~4,926 on the clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine3.0L
  • LocationUlverston

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£40,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£40,000

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Video #2

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

Only ~500 RHD 'City Pack' examples of the original 3.0 CSL were produced, making it a highly sought-after collectors' item.

The 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL is one of the most iconic models in BMW’s storied history, known for its role in establishing the marque's motorsport credentials and for paving the way for BMW's future M division. Introduced as a homologation special to allow BMW to compete in the European Touring Car Championship, the "CSL" stood for Coupé Sport Leichtbau—or Coupé Sport Lightweight. True to its name, the CSL featured extensive weight-saving measures, including thinner steel body panels, aluminium doors, bonnet and boot lid, and the removal of soundproofing and trim. Some early models even lacked power steering and standard bumpers and fitted with manually operated Plexiglas windows, further reducing weight.

Powered initially by a 2,985cc straight-six engine, early CSLs produced around 180bhp, with later versions, like this one, increasing to 3,003cc and eventually to 3,153cc in the "Batmobile" variants. These later models boasted dramatic aerodynamic appendages and were immensely successful on the track, helping BMW dominate touring car racing both in Europe and in the US IMSA series throughout the 1970s. Despite its motorsport origins, the CSL was still a refined grand tourer, offering a balance of comfort and high-speed composure.

Coming to auction after an exceptional 36-year custodianship, this 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL is a rare example that balances a discreet performance enhancement with an unwavering commitment to originality. While it benefits from a thoughtfully integrated supercharger for improved usability, what truly sets this car apart is its extraordinary authenticity - from factory-correct details to the completeness of its period-specific features that so clearly root it in its era.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Stephen the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

I bought one CSL, which was nice, then a dealer offered me this one, which was on another level.

Stephen’s 36-year custodianship of this BMW 3.0 CSL stands out even in the world of passionate classic car ownership. A trained engineer with a deep respect for the car’s heritage, Stephen approached his stewardship with patience, precision, and purpose.

Rather than restoring or modifying for show, his goal was to preserve the CSL’s originality while subtly improving its usability. Over the course of a decade, he undertook a considered programme of enhancements — the most notable being a carefully integrated supercharger, complemented by uprated brakes and suspension. The result is a car that remains remarkably authentic, yet is smoother, stronger, and more driveable than ever.

Stephen will be on hand to answer all your questions in the comments.

Stephen
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

It’s a pillarless coupé from the 1970s - what’s not to love about the styling of this iconic BMW.

Wheels and Tyres

With a subtle upgrade over the standard 14” wheels, the 16” Alpina wheels are in good condition, showing no signs of corrosion nor abrasion on the faces.

The tyres are generally in good visual order, with tread remaining, however, the nearside front tyre is worn close to legal limit as per the MOT advisory.

Please see the image gallery for detailed shots.

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Bodywork

Walking around the BMW, the bodywork is in good condition - there are a couple of very minor dings, which are age-related and could possibly be treated easily buy a specialist.

The panel gaps are equal, and the doors, boot, and bonnet open as you would expect for a car of this quality.

High-resolution images and videos have been provided, so please review all media to assess the car’s condition thoroughly.

image

Paint

Stephen tells us that he believes that much of the paint on the BMW is pretty much all original - there are some odd chips here and there, all adding to the fantastic patina of the BMW.

Images are taken from multiple angles to give you a realistic impression of the car, just as if you were standing beside it. Please take the time to examine these high-resolution images and videos to assess the condition for yourself.

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Glass and Trim

The windows are in good condition and free from any scratches.

Of course the CSL’s party trick is lowering the rear windows to reveal the pillarless coupé – which Stephen demonstrated faultlessly during the visit.

All of the lights are in good condition; however, being picky we did notice a small crack in the offside front indicator lens which was presumably caused by an over-tightened screw.

A Webasto roof adds to the charm and works correctly, especially when embarking on that long tour.

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VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The interior may show some patina, but it’s still very comfortable and supportive.

Seats and Carpets

The original shield-badged Scheel seats have some patina to the red and black leather, which does show signs of age. The rear seat is in good condition, as are both door cards, trim panels and headlining.

Throughout the car, the carpets are in good order. These can also be removed to reveal the floor, where no surface corrosion was spotted.

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Dashboard

Free from splits or cracks, the dashboard is in good order, particularly the all-important wood-veneered front edge trim..

The instruments are working correctly, with the odometer showing ~4,926 miles at the time of our visit.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

A MOMO Prototipo has been chosen to navigate the BMW - this is in good condition, with just a small amount of patina to the leather rim.

The same can be said for the gear knob, all in keeping with the age of the vehicle.

Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Together with the help and knowledge of Dennis Priddle, a top fuel drag racer and designer, the pair created the ultimate supercharged CSL.

Engine and Gearbox

The journey to create the supercharged 3.0-litre straight-six hasn’t been easy, but it has been very successful.

The first part of the project involved lowering the compression ratio from 9.5:1 to 8:1. This was achieved using low-compression American market-spec Mahle pistons. The supercharger is an Opcon Autorotor S102 Supercharger, which has been neatly installed on the side of the block—so neat that it looks like it came from the factory that way.

It is, of course, not as simple as that, and many custom parts have been made to accompany the conversion, which Stephen will be happy to discuss in the comments below.

The car fires up without hesitation and runs superbly, with no issues mentioned.

There is a Getrag five-speed close-ratio dogleg gearbox fitted, which is an ex-Prodrive unit from a 1980s BMW road rally programme. The change is quick and precise, perfectly geared for the CSL to make the most of the supercharged 3.0-litre.

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Suspension and Brakes

Taking care of the handling and providing a very smooth ride are a set of adjustable Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs.

There are no knocks from either corner, and the car handles superbly.

The brakes bring the car to a stop in a straight line, with no juddering through the pedal and no issues reported by Stephen.

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The Drive

Driving the 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL is a visceral, engaging experience that blends classic GT comfort with motorsport DNA. With its lightweight aluminium panels, minimal soundproofing, and free-revving straight-six engine, the CSL feels alive on the road.

The steering is precise and full of feedback, while the engine's smooth power delivery and raspy exhaust note add to the drama. This, of course, is enhanced even more with the addition of a supercharger and upgraded suspension, making the drive that extra bit special—and it really is!

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Electrics and Other

All of the electrics in the car are said to be working correctly. There is a small amount of age-related wear to the switchgear, but nothing excessive.

The centre console features additional gauges to monitor the essentials required for the supercharger.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

The history file is an encyclopaedia, brimming with information and handwritten notes for the conversion.

Owned by Stephen since the late 1980s, this CSL has been maintained with remarkable care and mechanical sympathy. Far from being just another modified classic, it has been diligently preserved to retain its factory character — with particular attention paid to corrosion prevention, structural integrity, and the functionality of original components including brakes, suspension, electrical systems, interior fittings, and lighting. The supercharging was carried out later in its life as a subtle enhancement to drivability, but the heart of the car’s value lies in its authenticity, its completeness, and the way it has been kept true to its time.

There are a significant number of invoices included, showing various parts purchased during the conversion. The most valuable items are the hand-drawn diagrams and occasional notes, as well as email correspondence discussing the conversion, which spanned ten years.

In addition, there are some spares included with the sale, some of which include the original 14" wheels and tyres, the original four-speed gearbox and various other parts.

This car has been a true labour of love for Stephen, who was determined to use his skills and knowledge to create his dream CSL—which he has done. The success of this has understandably made the decision to sell the car that much more difficult, but with that said, the decision has been made, and some lucky bidder will become the proud owner of a very cherished and unique BMW 3.0 CSL Supercharged.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage verification.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time—we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win—just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
04.06.2025 MOT 104,932
03.09.2017 MOT 102,488
28.07.2016 MOT 100,673
03.08.2013 MOT 98,240
10.09.2012 MOT 95,463
15.08.2011 MOT 93,024
12.08.2010 MOT 91,963
10.10.2007 MOT 91,268
11.09.2003 MOT 89,298
29.05.2002 MOT 85,304
29.05.2001 MOT 84,036
26.05.2000 MOT 82,807
19.09.1998 MOT 79,602
29.07.1997 MOT 77,296
13.07.1996 MOT 76,726
06.05.1995 MOT 73,745
05.03.1994 MOT 72,227
22.08.1992 MOT 70,672
08.06.1991 MOT 67,474
30.08.1989 MOT 64,788
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model CSL
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 16.10.1972
  • CC 3,003cc
  • Mileage ~4,926 on the clock
  • Colour BMW Verona
  • Interior Colour Red/Black
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # 2285059
  • Engine # 2285059
  • Restored No
  • Engine Rebuild Yes
  • MOT Yes Exp. 03-06-2026
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 10
  • # of Keys 4 (2 sets)
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 36 years
  • Key Feature Supercharger Conversion
  • Vehicle Registration JJF 256L
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Coupe
  • Auction ID 2909
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Ulverston, Cumbria

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £40,000
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    Auction Ends Thu 10th Jul at 7.00pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  11
    £40,000 bid by Billybehagg109.07.25 @ 07:27:41
    £37,000 bid by 360vt08.07.25 @ 21:24:30
    £36,000 bid by Billybehagg103.07.25 @ 18:58:01
    £34,000 bid by 360vt03.07.25 @ 16:57:30
    £33,000 bid by Billybehagg127.06.25 @ 16:51:32
    £30,000 bid by astravxr5527.06.25 @ 08:37:30
    £28,000 bid by Billybehagg127.06.25 @ 06:22:04
    £25,000 bid by Belsey26.06.25 @ 23:29:38
    £20,000 bid by Billybehagg126.06.25 @ 18:05:44
    £3,000 bid by 360vt26.06.25 @ 16:42:31
    £2,000 bid by mrg26.06.25 @ 09:42:56
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    1 Comment
    StephenCSL
    StephenCSL
    Seller
    10 days ago

    Asked why the DVLA records show the car as having had 10 previous ownwers, since to the very best of my knowledge it had only had max 4, possibly 5 owners beforee I bought it in 1988, I can only assume the DVLA record has been distorted by ther car having carried the number 9CPL for about 6 years before I purchased it. I sold the 9CPL number and managed to reinstate the car’s original JJF 256L registration.

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    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a BMW like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2025.

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    Vehicle Location

    Ulverston, Cumbria

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