Here are ten lesser-known facts about the 1973 BMW classic cars, particularly focusing on iconic models like the BMW 3.0 CSL (E9), BMW 2002 Turbo, and BMW E12 (First-Gen 5 Series):
1. BMW 3.0 CSL Was a Lightweight Racing Legend
- The 3.0 CSL (Coupe Sport Leichtbau) was specifically designed for racing. BMW reduced its weight by using aluminum doors, thinner steel, and Perspex side windows, making it lighter than the standard 3.0 CS.
2. The First “Batmobile” Spoiler Was Illegal
- The 1973 BMW 3.0 CSL was nicknamed the “Batmobile” due to its massive rear wing and aerodynamic body kit. Interestingly, the spoiler was not street legal in Germany, so BMW delivered the cars with the spoiler in the trunk for owners to install later.
3. The BMW 2002 Turbo Was the First Turbocharged Production Car in Europe
- The 2002 Turbo, introduced in 1973, was the first-ever turbocharged production car from BMW and Europe. It had 170 horsepower—impressive for its time.
4. The 2002 Turbo Had a “Reverse” Front Sticker
- To emphasize its power, the “2002 Turbo” badge was written in reverse on the front bumper. This was so that cars ahead could read it properly in their rearview mirror, similar to how ambulances display their text.
5. The 1973 Oil Crisis Affected BMW Sales
- Due to the 1973 Oil Crisis, the BMW 2002 Turbo suffered from low sales because people avoided fuel-thirsty sports cars. BMW produced only 1,672 units, making it one of the rarest BMW classics today.
6. The BMW E12 Was the First Official 5 Series
- 1973 marked the launch of the first-ever BMW 5 Series (E12). It was designed by Paul Bracq, and its styling set the tone for future BMW sedans.
7. The 3.0 CSL Had a Striped Racing Livery
- The BMW Motorsport Division (M Division) debuted in 1973 with the now-famous blue, purple, and red stripes on the 3.0 CSL race cars. This was the beginning of BMW’s performance division.
8. Hand-Assembled for Precision
- Unlike mass-produced models, the BMW 3.0 CSL and 2002 Turbo were partially hand-assembled, ensuring higher quality and making each unit slightly unique.
9. Influence on the BMW M Division
- The 3.0 CSL was one of the first cars to be developed by BMW Motorsport GmbH, the division that would later create the legendary BMW M cars (like the M3 and M5).
10. A BMW 3.0 CSL Won the 1973 European Touring Car Championship
- The 3.0 CSL dominated racing, winning the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) in 1973, proving its worth as a track beast and cementing BMW’s motorsport legacy.
These classic 1973 BMWs not only set performance standards but also shaped the future of BMW’s design, engineering, and racing dominance. 🚗💨
