BMW 3.0 CS & CSi
The BMW E9, with its elegant Karmann-built body and smooth M30 inline-six, is a quintessential German grand tourer. It's a blue-chip classic where values are highly dependent on condition, with rust-free, fuel-injected CSi models leading the market.
Find one with Spotter →BMW 3.0 CS & CSi sold for a median of $73,700 over the last 12 months, based on 29 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $60,000 and $100,000. 22 currently for sale.
The BMW E9 coupe is a landmark design that cemented the brand's reputation for building sporting grand tourers. Introduced as the 2800 CS in 1968, the model evolved into the more powerful 3.0 CS in 1971, featuring twin carburetors on its 3.0-liter M30 inline-six. Later that year, the fuel-injected 3.0 CSi arrived, boosting output to 200 hp. The beautiful, pillarless body was styled by Bertone and built by Karmann, but this coachwork is notoriously susceptible to rust, a key factor in the car's market today.
Collectors are drawn to the E9 for its timeless styling, excellent driving dynamics, and the fantastic sound of its straight-six engine. The CSi is generally the most desirable of the standard production models due to its increased performance and driveability from the Bosch D-Jetronic injection system. While the lightweight CSL 'Batmobile' homologation special is the ultimate prize, the CS and CSi offer a similar aesthetic and a superb GT experience at a more accessible price point.
The market for E9 coupes is mature, with values reflecting condition above all else. The average sale price sits around $75,000, but this figure hides a massive spread. Top-tier, rust-free CSi models can easily exceed $150,000, while neglected projects can trade for under $20,000. Buyers have learned that paying for a quality example is far cheaper than restoring a rusty car, as body and paintwork can quickly eclipse the value of the finished vehicle.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the E9's biggest enemy. Pay for a specialist inspection, focusing on shock towers, fenders, rocker panels, floors, and the areas around the front and rear glass.
- The CSi's Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection provides more power but can be tricky to diagnose and repair. Ensure the car idles smoothly and accelerates without hesitation.
- Interior parts, especially the wood trim and dashboard, are expensive and difficult to find. Factor the cost of interior restoration into your budget.
- The M30 engine is durable, but prone to overheating if the cooling system is neglected. Look for evidence of head gasket failure, like milky oil or white exhaust smoke.
Prices range from $6,475 for project cars to $250,000 for pristine, concours-level examples.
484 BMW 3.0 CS & CSi vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 22 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a BMW 3.0 CS & CSi cost?
Over the last 12 months, BMW 3.0 CS & CSi sold for a median of $73,700 across 29 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $60,000 and $100,000. There are 22 currently for sale.
How many BMW 3.0 CS & CSi listings are for sale right now?
There are 22 BMW 3.0 CS & CSi listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.