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Coach-Built Coupe! 1967 BMW 2000CS

BMW enjoys a reputation for building high-tech super-performing luxury vehicles, and its flagship 7-Series regularly transports diplomats and heads of state. In the late 1950s, however, the German automaker’s financial situation called for a new vision, and a line of cars called Neue Klasse (New Class) marked a key turnaround that set the stage for the BMWs we know and respect today. This 1967 BMW 2000CS near Livermore, California is a rare example of a New Class coupe. The non-operative CS looks mostly solid and complete, and the off-white BMW, with its Euro-spec glassed-in headlights and red leather interior, promises a stunning entrance wherever it goes, once restored. BMW built 9999 CS coupes total from 1965 to 1969. The listing here on Craigslist asks $9000 for the privilege of putting this one back on the road where it belongs. Thanks to Wikipedia for some details, and thanks to reader Rex M. for spotting this rare California coupe.

Fans of the popular BMW 2002 and related models will immediately recognize the battle-proven M10 inline four-cylinder powerplant. Every 2000CS came with a four-speed manual transmission and four-wheel independent suspension that today’s drivers would find surprisingly “BMW-like,” delivering excellent handling while taking railroad tracks and pot holes in stride, a balance few American cars achieved during the 20th Century. The CS used twin carburetors to make 120 HP versus 100 in the single carb 2000.

An attractive two-tone interior offers everything you need for casual or spirited driving. American buyers often forget that every car built in Germany in the last 70+ years can survive long hours of driving at autobahn speeds. Overdrive is handy to save some fuel and engine RPMs, but this M10 will run all day at 4000 RPM. For a better idea of the cockpit ambiance, check out this CS dashboard at ConsumerGuide. The first impression is definitely upscale from the sporty ’02 two-door sedan’s mostly black plastic dash.

This car’s non-operative state prevented pictures that capture its attractive lines. BMW engaged coach builder Karmann to build the handsome two-door. A nice spread at BringATrailer suggests the car’s potential. As a 2002 tii owner, I would love to restore a CS some day. Have you ever seen a 2000CS in the wild?

Comments

  1. Avatar RayT

    I’ve driven a 2000CS, Todd, and if anything you’re under-rating it. Not only are they elegant when cleaned up (with just enough German quirkiness in the front-end design set them apart from the later coupes) but offer nimble handling and excellent performance. After running one fairly vigorously on some tight mountain roads and on the freeway, I didn’t find anything to dislike, and much to enjoy.

    The only thing to quibble about here is the price. Considering the time and expense it will certainly take to bring this one up to DD status — never mind the kind of full-on resto I’d want to give it — the seller seems to be asking more than all the money.

    Like 6
  2. Avatar Gary

    I never got a chance to drive one of these, but always have wanted to. Looks like a lot of fun. Maybe in the next life. In the sixties, a car like this sure would not have fit into my neighborhood (or my budget!). I quietly thought about these, but never spoke to my buddies about them, they would have laughed or even questioned my manliness.

    Like 3
  3. Avatar HBChris

    Karmann built the bodies but BMW assembled these in Munich. This will cost as much to restore as an e9 but will still be worth much less which is a shame and parts are even herded to find.

    Like 3
  4. Avatar Terrry

    These were beautiful cars, when BMWs truly had class. Too bad I don’t have a wad burning a hole in my pocket. I’d buy this, restore it enough to drive it and look good.

    Like 4
  5. Avatar chrlsful

    all ways looked too japanese back in the day to me.
    Not so much today tho…
    Still I’d want the 2002 tii in silver w/some usa muscle style wheel, may B wider track/tire, 5 speed

    Like 0

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