The seller describes this ’73 e9 BMW as “Unbelievable”. The pictures don’t lie, it’s the “Needs a paint job” claim that makes us wary. It does, indeed need a paint-job, in addition to several thousand dollars worth of body work. e9 BMWs (2800s, 3.0CSs and CSLs) are Teutonic Sirens: gorgeous to look at, relatively simple mechanics, but apparently not designed to persist in an oxygen-rich environment without rusting to smithereens. The currently hilariously low (no reserve) price only adds to the siren-ness…
That said, the low purchase price, generally dubious condition, and pre-smog title leave the door open for a slew of upgrades. We’d take it down to metal and only add back what we really needed; things like a fuel-injected stroker M30, 5 speed transmission and a good set of Recaros. And just for kicks we’d patch the rust but never repaint it.
For those with their tetanus shots up to date, it’s on eBay motors at $1625 with no reserve.
The Rustman Cometh: 1973 BMW 3.0 CS is an Automotive Siren
By Tim Odell
Jan 27, 2010
Jeff Glucker
I used to work with a guy that had one of these, in much better shape than this one, but not perfect. The thing that I remember about it, is that on hot days the hazard lights would come on by themselves. Apparently it was a spring loaded switch that popped out when the plastic around it expanded too much. In the 1970s the Germans didn't design cars for 95+ deg F (probably 120+ interior) temperatures.
They never fixed that issue either. The Hazards on the e21 always pop on in the summer. I have a home made bracket holding mine in place. Two tooth picks wedged in the switch. Worked so far..
I just had to +1 you for referring to "two tooth picks" as a "bracket". Truly hoonerrific.
'tis but a flesh wound.
That garage could hold several thousand Cozy Coupes.
Those seats look like they have a medical condition.
Upside, think of how many hookers you could fit in that trunk.
Looks like a beautiful car… in way worse condition than I could manage.
I worked at a BMW dealership in the mid-70s when these first hit the market. The rust problem was so bad right out of the gate, the parts depot in SoCal kept complete BODY SHELLs in stock. The shells themselves were done by Karmann (of Ghia fame) and it appeared to me at the time that Karmann was 1) stamping the shells from recycled tomato cans, 2) using hygroscopic (look it up) primer, and 3) water soluable paint for the final color. Oh, and dont EVEN get me started about the clear coat!
I think I saw something living in the engine compartment, and I can see the butt sex fog hanging over the back seats.
+1 for "butt sex fog," I laughed hard at that one!
At less than $2K, I'd bid on this thing if it weren't three thousand miles away. The minute I first laid eyes on one I wanted it bad. Sure there are a couple of cosmetic problems but I'm ready. Lousy paint, rust bubbles? Krylon. Seats shot? Duct tape. No headlights? Duct tape.
Though I suppose I'd be obliged to practice that New Jersey style "dudes pointing at the sky!" BMW pose if I won.
Don't go primping it up too much now…
OMG! I saw that very car on ebay just this morning! I thought to myself that it would be a hella cool vehicle to have if it wasn't so far away. Instead, I may end up acquiring a 1998 7-series that needs a front bumper and a new motor that currently lives in NJ.
Good looking car, until you see the cancer…
In fact, I am loving this all new edition a lot more and additional. Perhaps mainly because it sort of appears like the dated classy designs. The down-played though exquisite styling, the longer, lower front end. It is a shame I can not have the funds for one for at the very least ten years…
Always nice to find a new blog this fantastic! I’ll be coming back for certain