Projects
Project 1 Porsche VW T3 B32
THE CSL STORY
The BMW 3.0 CSL was introduced in 1971 as a lighter, sharper version of the 3.0 CS coupé. Built to homologate BMW for touring car racing, it was the first BMW to carry the “CSL” name standing for Coupé Sport Leichtbau (Coupe Sport Lightweight).
For UK buyers, every CSL was right hand drive and better equipped than the bare-bones homologation cars sold in Germany. Features such as carpets, power windows, and extra trim meant UK cars were a little heavier, but still retained the core of the CSL’s character: a more agile, competition-inspired version of BMW’s elegant E9 coupé.
LIGHTER, FASTER, MORE FOCUSED
The CSL achieved its weight reduction through clever use of materials. Aluminium replaced steel for the bonnet, boot lid, and doors, while thinner steel panels were used for the roof and bodywork. Perspex side windows and stripped-out trim were part of the German-spec cars, but UK versions kept glass and more creature comforts.
Even so, UK CSLs were around 200-280 kg lighter than the standard CSL, giving them a sharper, more dynamic driving experience.
We are in the process of building an accurate replica of
this cult classic that you never knew existed.
When complete this This Porsche 911 Powered VW T3 Bus will boast a rear-mounted flat-six engine
sourced from a Porsche 911 3.2 Carrera that will produced 231hp.
Power will be transmitted to the rear axle through a Porsche 915 gearbox with cooler, a
koni suspension setup and much beefier brakes will completed the mechanical upgrades.
Visually, the B32 will be distinguishable by the front and rear skirts, a set of 16-inch Fuchs wheels, extra side vents for engine cooling, and a much larger tailpipe. The interior will be upholstered in Caravelle Carat, although the highlights will be the Porsche badge on the steering wheel, Carrera on the rear and the extra gauges on the lower end of the center console.
We’re undertaking the creation of a remarkably accurate, visually and mechanically faithful replica of one of the rarest and most fascinating vehicles Porsche ever built the 911 powered VW T3 B32. A true cult classic, the B32 is a vehicle few know existed, yet its origin is deeply rooted in Porsche’s motorsport history.
Originally developed by Porsche in the early 1980s to support its factory 959 entries in the grueling Paris-Dakar Rally, the B32 was far more than a parts hauler. It needed to keep pace with rally cars across extreme terrain, prompting Porsche engineers to replace the VW Transporter’s standard engine with a rear-mounted 3.2-litre flat-six engine sourced from the Porsche 911 Carrera, delivering 231 horsepower. This transformation allowed the B32 to provide high-speed support in remote desert environments – a necessity during one of the toughest endurance rallies on the planet.
In our tribute to this legendary machine, we are building a replica that mirrors the original in both spirit and specification. Our B32 will feature the same 3.2-litre flat-six, mated to a Porsche 915 gearbox equipped with an external cooler for durability. A Koni suspension setup will ensure handling composure, while upgraded brakes will provide the stopping power needed for its increased performance.
Visually, our recreation will include key identifiers such as front and rear aerodynamic skirts, iconic 16-inch Fuchs alloy wheels, extra side vents for engine cooling, and a pronounced tailpipe – all hallmarks of the original B32. Inside, the cabin will be trimmed in plush Caravelle Carat upholstery, with unique touches including Porsche-badged switchgear, additional gauges integrated into the lower center console, and a subtle but unmistakable "Carrera" script on the rear.
This is more than a tribute – it’s a celebration of a Porsche secret weapon, reborn with painstaking attention to detail and engineering precision.
Project 2 The BMW 3.0 CSL
We are currently in the process of restoring this
wonderful lightweight bmw coupé.
Six European championships
A lap record on the Nürburgring
The first ever BMW Art Car
The BMW 3.0 CSL has always stood out from the crowd.
BMW 3.0 CSL, THE LEGEND RESTORED
5 ESSENTIAL FACTS
Power: 200 HP (151 kW)
Engine: 3,153 cm³ straight-six
Top speed: 137mph
Weight: around 1,270 kg (UK spec)
A true icon of automotive design, the BMW 3.0 CSL remains one of the most captivating classics ever produced, yet often overlooked. This model embodies everything collectors admire: a strong racing heritage, extreme rarity (only 500 right-hand drive examples), elegant and timeless styling, a genuine period character.
When it debuted in 1972, the CSL was prohibitively expensive, roughly double the price of the average home, making ownership a privilege few could afford. At that time, BMW was not yet celebrated for its motorsport achievements; the brand was more associated with boxy, utilitarian cars. German engineering had a mixed reputation in the post-war years, yet the CSL’s innovative design and performance quickly proved that BMW was ahead of its peers. Placed against contemporaries like the Jaguar E-Type or higher-end Italian exotics, the CSL’s combination of lightweight construction and robust performance made it a dominant force on the racetrack for several years.
Those early enthusiasts who recognized its brilliance became its first advocates. Despite modest commercial success UK buyers even required a “city pack” of extra features, which largely offset the weight savings of the “L” designation. Over time, many cars deteriorated or were lost to neglect, yet for those lucky enough to own one, the CSL often remained the most memorable car of their lives. For those who remember the model from childhood, perhaps from family or friends, the connection to the CSL is enduring, and many eventually seek out the perfect example to recapture that nostalgia.
When prepared correctly, the CSL drives exactly as intended: a GT for the road that still impresses today. Powered by the legendary 3.0 M30 engine a unit that would go on to underpin BMWs for decades the car delivers a silky yet potent 200bhp, making it exceptionally quick for its era. Reliability is strong by classic car standards, and most parts remain accessible, apart from a few rare trim pieces.
The real challenge lies in availability. Of the original 500 RHD CSLs, fewer than 81 are believed to survive, and many of those require significant restoration. Matching numbers examples are even rarer, as BMW historically replaced engines under warranty, meaning few original powerplants remain. Finding a CSL worth owning has always been a greater challenge than affording one.
This particular CSL has involved a complete bare-metal strip, repaint in the original Verona Red, full engine bay and underside refurbishment, interior retrim in period-correct material, a full engine rebuild (top and bottom ), and a total mechanical overhaul down to every nut and bolt.
The result is a stunning, fully authentic 3.0 CSL: matching numbers, historically accurate, and ready for collectors, shows, or regular driving enjoyment. The vibrant Verona Red perfectly captures the spirit of the 1970s, the suspension will once again be crisp and responsive, the engine will again produce all 200 horses as it did nearly five decades ago, showcasing BMW’s engineering brilliance. Lightweight, powerful, and beautifully proportioned, this CSL is one of the finest examples of BMW’s iconic golden era.
DISTINCTIVE AERODYNAMICS
The most famous CSLs are the so-called “Batmobiles”, introduced in 1973 with a dramatic aerodynamic kit deep front spoiler, large rear wing, and unique side fins.
Because the rear wing wasn’t road legal, cars were delivered with the spoiler packed in the boot rather than fitted. In the UK, many CSLs were sold without the full aero package, but enthusiasts later added them to complete the look.
THE HEART – INLINE SIX
At the centre of the CSL is BMW’s iconic M30 straight-six engine.
Early versions produced 180 hp from twin carburettors.
Later cars gained fuel injection and enlarged capacity to 3,153 cm³, raising output to 206 hp.
With a 4-speed manual gearbox, the CSL could reach 220 km/h (137 mph) – very quick for the early 1970s.
MOTORSPORT SUCCESS
The CSL was the car that launched BMW Motorsport GmbH in 1972. On track, it became a dominant force, winning six European Touring Car Championships between 1973 and 1979. Legendary drivers like Hans-Joachim Stuck, Chris Amon, and Niki Lauda all raced CSLs, cementing its place in touring car history.
This success also gave rise to the first ever BMW Art Car in 1975, when artist Alexander Calder painted a CSL for French racing driver Hervé Poulain.
