Auction Picks: Classic 1970 BMW 2800CS Goes Under the Hammer: Bids Start at $4,300

A vintage 1970 BMW 2800CS has been drawing significant attention since it was listed for auction. The car, currently commanding a bid of $4,300, is a unique project opportunity for classic car enthusiasts.
The BMW 2800CS, a running and driving project, boasts a 2.8-liter inline-six engine fitted with dual Weber carburetors. It is paired with a three-speed automatic transmission.
The car's allure is heightened by its red vinyl upholstery, 14″ alloy wheels, a Blaupunkt AM/FM/cassette stereo, and power-operated windows. The vehicle, which has been in the seller's possession since 2009, has a clean Minnesota title.

However, this classic beauty has seen better days. Originally painted in Polaris Silver, the car now reveals exposed primer, prior repairs, and various signs of aging. Notably, the hood has been repainted white, while the trunk lid showcases hand-drawn art using a permanent marker. The vehicle's structural integrity is also questioned due to rusting in several areas.

Inside, the red vinyl seating is complemented by color-coordinated door panels, salt-and-pepper carpets, and wood trim. Although the car is equipped with power windows and a Blaupunkt stereo, the air conditioning components are missing, and cracks mar the dashboard.

Under the hood, the 2.8-liter engine has been fitted with aftermarket air cleaners. The seller recently addressed a leaking fuel line in July 2023. Some areas of the engine bay have been patched with duct tape, and the hood struts are conspicuously absent.

Several comments on the auction platform provide insights into the car's history and potential. The seller, Tenenstan, revealed that the car was initially purchased as an Art Car project, explaining the doodled art on the trunk. Another user, James2002golf, shared a detailed assessment of the car's rusting issues and the challenges of restoring such a vehicle.
Bids have been coming in steadily, with the latest bid placed by 'cadilac' at $4,300. With the auction set to end in just over 10 hours, interested buyers and BMW aficionados are eagerly watching to see how this classic project car will fare.
Interested parties can view the car in person, as suggested by a commenter from the MSP area. Spare and removed parts, included in the sale, might sweeten the deal for potential restorers.
This auction provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to bring a vintage gem back to its former glory. The car's quirks, from duct tape repairs to the hand-drawn art, tell a story waiting to be continued by its next owner.
A Glimpse into the BMW 2800CS History
The BMW 2800CS, part of the E9 coupe series, was introduced in the late 1960s as a luxurious and sporty two-door car. It was a significant step forward for BMW, symbolizing the brand's commitment to producing elegant and performance-driven vehicles.

With its sleek design and signature kidney grille, the 2800CS was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, providing a perfect blend of power and sophistication. Its inception marked BMW's ambition to compete with other European luxury brands, setting the stage for the future success of the company's high-end coupe offerings.
The E9 series, to which the 2800CS belongs, is renowned for its success in motorsport, particularly in the European Touring Car Championship, cementing BMW's reputation in the racing world.
Over the years, the 2800CS and its successors have become iconic, representing a golden era of design and engineering for BMW. Collectors and enthusiasts today cherish the 2800CS for its timeless beauty and historical significance in the BMW lineage.
Here's a basic table with specifications for the 1970 BMW 2800CS:
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Model | BMW 2800CS |
Year | 1970 |
Series | E9 |
Body Type | 2-door coupe |
Engine | 2.8-liter inline-six |
Carburetion | Dual Weber carburetors |
Transmission | Three-speed automatic |
Power Windows | Yes |
Upholstery | Red vinyl |
Wheels | 14" alloy wheels |
Stereo | Blaupunkt AM/FM/cassette |
Steering Wheel | Later-model four-spoke |
Original Color | Polaris Silver |
Brakes | Four-wheel disc brakes |
Tires | BFGoodrich Traction T/A 195/70 |
