Zurich Auction Sets Sights on Rare BMW 3.0 CSL
A rare modern BMW 3.0 CSL carrying a pre-sale estimate of up to 1.2 million CHF (approximately €1.3 million or $1.5 million) is heading to the auction block in Switzerland, according to bmwblog. Chassis number 28 of just 50 units built globally will cross the stage at Broad Arrow Auctions on November 7 at The Dolder Grand in Zurich, autotech-plus.com reported.
The exclusive coupe has traveled just 216 miles (348 kilometers) since leaving the factory and spent its life garage-kept in Switzerland. Originally ordered by former BMW Sauber Formula 1 driver Nick Heidfeld, the vehicle arrives with minimal road use and a documented motorsport provenance.
Specifications and Heritage of the Modern Batmobile
Built to celebrate 50 years of the M division while paying homage to the original E9-based race car of the 1970s, the modern 3.0 CSL shares its foundation with the M4 CSL. BMW applied extensive bespoke bodywork featuring Alpine White paint, classic M stripes, gold wheels, yellow daytime running lights, and an oversized rear wing reminiscent of the original Batmobile. Engineers utilized carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic across numerous body panels to reduce weight.
Under the hood lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 553 horsepower. Unlike its sibling models, this iteration pairs the high-output straight-six with a six-speed manual transmission routing power exclusively to the rear wheels. This configuration makes it the most powerful six-cylinder gas-only car and the most powerful three-pedal vehicle ever produced by BMW.
Included Collector Items and F1 Provenance
Nick Heidfeld’s association adds distinct pedigree to the offering. The German driver competed in Formula 1 from 2000 to 2011, racing for BMW Sauber during the manufacturer’s most competitive era. Broad Arrow Auctions confirmed the sale includes comprehensive original documentation, an owner’s manual numbered 28/50, a 1:18-scale model of the car, and a design sketch bearing the signature of BMW designer Viktor Bär.
Collectors evaluating the lot face a distinct choice between preserving the ultra-low-mileage asset in a climate-controlled environment or operating the manual gearbox on the road. Given its current odometer reading of 216 miles, industry observers anticipate the car will likely remain an investment-grade static collectible.
Worth a look