Model specs

1971-1975 BMW 3.0 CS/CSi

Production: 19,207

Price at launch: £6199

Price (excellent): £15,000

Price (good): £10,000

Price (average): £5000

Price (project): £1500

Performance

0-60mph:7.5secs

Top speed:139mph

Power:200bhp

Torque:200lb/ft

MPG:21mpg

Engine

Configuration:in-line six

Aspiration:normal

Fuel:petrol

Fuel delivery:electronic fuel injection

Chassis

Suspension Front: Independent, MacPherson struts, coil spring

Suspension Rear: Independent, semi-trailing arms, coil springs

Drivetrain: front-engine RWD

Steering: worm and roller

Bodyframe: metal monocoque

Transmission: Four-speed manual

Dimensions

Length: 4630mm

Wheelbase: 2625mm

Width: 1730mm

Height: 1370mm

Weight: 1270kgs

Overview

Although outwardly similar to the outgoing 2800, the 1971 3.0CS was a major step forwards thanks to an uprated chassis and braking set-up first seen in the saloon range. The excellent roadholding of the former model was easily surpassed, and unlike the smaller cars in the range, snap-oversteer was rare. The fuel injected CSi passed the 200bhp mark, making it a paid-up member of the performance car elite, with a top speed of 135mph and 0-60mph time of less than eight seconds. Still considered by many to be the most desirable BMW coupé of them all.