Lot details
Registration No: MED 453
Chassis No: 2206204
Mot Expiry: March 2012

BMW's so called 'New Class' compact Saloons and Coupes manufactured between 1962 and 1975 quite simply saved the company from extinction; setting it on the road from bubble car maker to the highly profitable, world class producer it is today. Powered by the firm's celebrated four-cylinder M10 engine, these enthusiast drivers' cars featured fully independent suspension and disc brakes up front. Introduced in 1965, the 2000C and 2000CS Coupes featured distinctive-looking Karmann-built bodies and luxurious interiors. Having set a trend, the pair was superseded in 1968 by the first of the E9 Coupes - the 2800CS. The length and wheelbase of the newcomer were extended to accommodate the 2788cc straight-six engine from the E3 Saloon, and the nose of the Karmann monocoque body was restyled to echo that of its four-door sibling. The 170bhp of the new, silky smooth powerplant was sufficient to propel the handsome Coupe to 60mph in 8.5 seconds and on to a top speed of a whisker under 130mph. The fully independent suspension was by MacPherson struts up front and semi-trailing arms at the rear. Braking was still by disc / drums and the steering by a power-assisted ball and nut system. Some 8,232 2800CSs were produced.

The 1971 2800CS being offered is a particularly special example that, two years ago, was turned into an historic road rally car during a £55,000 plus restoration. The comprehensive specification includes a Mass Racing engine producing some 188bhp and 210lbft of torque and drives through a five- rather than four-speed manual gearbox to a limited slip differential. The BMW is fitted with a dural sump guard, tank guard, modified boot floor (to lift the competition exhaust above the axle), twin fuel tanks and pumps, heavy duty alternator, adjustable dampers, uprated road springs (to increase ground clearance), twin spare wheels, Brantz tripmeter, battery master switch and towing eyes. Intended for long distance events, 'MED 453' also features 635i half leather reclining front seats, air conditioning, electric windows, power assisted steering, heated rear screen and a Kenwood stereo. Its safety oriented items include; rear roll cage, dual circuit brakes, plumbed-in fire extinguisher, four-point harnesses, laminated front screen and passenger footplate with button for the air horns. Described by the vendor as "concours", this prince among historic rally cars is finished in Red with a Black interior and has yet to be used in anger. It comes with receipts for the no expense-spared restoration and is eligible for most major historic events, including the Classic Marathon.