1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS

This BMW 3.0 CS (E9) is a stylish and low-mileage coupe, from the golden era of the brand’s ‘New Class’ design language. It is powered by a smooth and characterful 180bhp 3.0-litre M30 straight-six engine on twin carburettors, and is coupled to a three-speed automatic transmission. Now showing 59,169 miles, this 1970s classic is ready to bring a touch of elegance to any occasion.

The BMW E9 was styled by Wilhelm Hofmeister - creator of the now-famous ‘Hofmeister kink’ - and the bodywork was manufactured by the Karmann Karosserie company. The 3.0 CS featured independent suspension all round, as well as a dual-circuit braking system with ventilated discs on all four wheels. This particular car is a late example of the model, understood to be one of just 355 examples of the 3.0 CS Automatic built in the penultimate year of production.

First registered in March 1974, this right-hand drive UK market car was supplied by BMW in Brentford, Middlesex. There are eight previous keepers on the V5C log book, and it is clear that it has been well cared-for, remaining in highly original condition. In February 2009, the BMW appeared in a feature for ‘Classic Cars’ magazine, driving along Dorset’s Jurassic coastline. A copy of the magazine is included in the sale. The seller has owned the car for the last three years, and has enjoyed around 2,000 miles behind the wheel.

The bodywork of this 3.0 CS is straight and solid, and is finished in the elegant ‘Fjord Blue’ hue. The paint is believed to be mostly original, and has a well-preserved appearance. There are a few blemishes on the panels, and some imperfections along the door end panels, but the car presents honestly as can be seen in the detailed set of photos below.

The brightwork and badges are all in good condition, with only some minor pitting and light scratches. All of the light lenses are in great shape with no cracks in the casings, and the window rubbers are also sound. The car rides on an original set of 14-inch, 20-spoke BMW light alloy wheels, which are in superb order.

Inside, the period-perfect interior remains original and looks wonderful. The comfortable seats are upholstered in the blue velour type cloth on the side bolsters, with cord fabric centre panels, and vinyl backings. There is light wear on the bases and seat backs, and more noticeable wear to the shoulder sections where the belts have rubbed against the material over time. It gives the car an appealing patinated appearance, which is why the seller has left it as-is.

The headlining still presents very well, with signs of aging, but no rips or tears. Ahead of the driver is an original three-spoke steering wheel, while the instrument binnacle sits in the smart minimalist dashboard that features inlaid dark walnut wood veneers. All of the switchgear works as it should, and there are no known electrical faults. At the back of the car, the boot is in good order, with a tailored blue carpet to match the interior. A full-size spare wheel and tyre is also present, along with the original jack and a near-complete tool kit.

Accompanying this 3.0 CS is the blue book pouch, housing the original owner’s manual, service directory, stamped maintenance record, and other sales literature. There are also various old receipts and MOT certificates, as well as the 2009 Classic Cars magazine featuring the car. Within the maintenance record are numerous service stamps dating back to delivery in 1974. It shows that the car was delivered to the first owner with 88 transport and test miles on the odometer, and returned to the dealer in late March 1974 for its running-in service at 875 miles.

The most recent scheduled maintenance was carried out in July 2018 at 58,600 miles, by classic car specialist Terry Harris in Kilburn. This consisted of a lubrication service, as well as improvements to the fuel system that included new hoses, and heat-resistant wrap for the filter. New rear exhaust mounts were also fitted, along with replacement washer jet unions and a new brake pedal rubber.

Prior to this, in July 2017 at 58,000 miles, the car was given another service, which incorporated renewal of the gearbox oil, fuel filter and fuel pump, as well as the fan belt and two air filters. The offside window regulator was also replaced.

Its last MOT test was on 8 January 2018 at 58,186 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories. The wheels - including the full-size spare - are fitted with a set of Federal Super Steel tyres in size 195/70 R14 all round.

This BMW 3.0 CS is a charming 1970s classic, which makes a fantastic cruiser with its automatic transmission. The original brochure for the 3.0 CS called it: “A high class car to fulfil high expectations”, and it is rightly regarded today as one of the most handsome BMW designs. This car is presented in a beautiful colour combination, and in fine mechanical condition. It drives beautifully, and is ready for a new owner who appreciates its timeless style and sophistication.

The car is offered from the Horizon Classics collection, which has been assembled by a passionate enthusiast who has always bought cars that he will drive and enjoy. They are all kept in superb mechanical order, ready to take out at a moment’s notice, and represent some of the most popular modern classics.

Car Overview

  • 59,169 miles
  • automatic
  • RHD
  • Fjord Blue
  • Dark blue velour
  • 3.0L


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #00426
  • NW London, United Kingdom

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1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS1974 BMW (E9) 3.0 CS
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