Rare 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL 'Batmobile' Development Car Goes Up for Sale
In the dynamic landscape of the 1970s automotive industry, innovation was paramount. Amidst burgeoning competition, manufacturers sought distinctive approaches to market differentiation. BMW's response was the establishment of a factory racing team, an initiative championed by the influential Bob Lutz. This pivotal decision led to the birth of BMW's first M car, a legendary vehicle that is now on the market.
This extraordinary 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL Werks development car, identified as E9/R1, stands as the inaugural creation of the burgeoning BMW Motorsport division. Constructed between late 1972 and early 1973, it was the first of 21 CSL Werks models, with eleven of these units being actively campaigned by the factory racing team. Furthermore, the E9/R1 played a crucial role in the development of the distinctive Batmobile Aero kit, solidifying its place in automotive history.
The Genesis of BMW M: The E9/R1 Development
The 1970s were a period of intense innovation and competition within the automotive sector, driving manufacturers to seek novel ways to distinguish their products. BMW’s strategic move to form a factory-backed racing team, a vision spearheaded by the prominent Bob Lutz, marked a turning point. This endeavor ultimately led to the creation of BMW’s inaugural M car, a vehicle now presented for sale, offering a rare glimpse into the origins of BMW’s high-performance legacy. This particular 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL Werks development car, known by its chassis code E9/R1, holds the distinction of being the first vehicle produced by the newly established BMW Motorsport division, embodying the foundational engineering and design principles that would define the brand’s performance ethos for decades to come.
Built across late 1972 and early 1973, the E9/R1 was not merely a prototype but a critical testbed, becoming the first among 21 CSL Werks cars. Of these, 11 were actively raced by the factory team, showcasing the model's competitive capabilities. More notably, this specific car was instrumental in the evolution of the iconic “Batmobile” aerodynamic kit, a feature that would become synonymous with the 3.0 CSL’s aggressive and race-ready appearance. Following its initial competitive outings in the 1973 season, the E9/R1 was acquired by an American racing team for participation in the 1974 IMSA championship. After a single season, the car was eventually retired from active competition and subsequently became part of a private BMW collection in the early 1980s. Its current owner, who acquired it in the mid-1990s, has meticulously preserved its originality through extensive restoration, an exceptional feat for a development vehicle of its age, highlighting its enduring significance and pristine condition.
A Legacy Preserved: From Racetrack to Collector's Item
Following its competitive debut, the E9/R1 transitioned through various ownerships, eventually finding a home within a distinguished BMW collection during the early 1980s. The current private owner acquired this historical vehicle in the mid-1990s and has since undertaken a comprehensive restoration, meticulously preserving its original specifications. The remarkable retention of all its original components over such an extended period is a testament to its care and the inherent quality of its construction, a rare attribute for a development prototype. This steadfast commitment to originality underscores the vehicle's historical importance and its continued appeal to automotive enthusiasts and collectors.
Despite spending nearly three decades out of public view, the E9/R1 made a notable return at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it participated in a hill climb in its pre-homologation configuration, demonstrating its timeless performance. Its most recent public display was at the Salon Prive Concours D’Elegance in August 2025, where it was presented with the full Batmobile aero kit, captivating audiences with its classic lines and racing heritage. This highly sought-after model is powered by a larger 3.5-liter inline-six engine, which is reported to generate in excess of 400 horsepower, offering a thrilling driving experience. While the asking price remains undisclosed, available only upon direct application, this unique opportunity allows enthusiasts to acquire a definitive piece of BMW M's storied past, a vehicle that not only shaped the brand's performance identity but also stands as a symbol of automotive engineering excellence from a bygone era.