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The BMW 3.5 CSL IMSA number 24 in white, blue, and red, which participated in the 6 hours of Riverside in California, represents one of the most exciting chapters of BMW's commitment to American motorsport. This Minichamps miniature faithfully captures the spirit of the time when the Bavarian brand made its mark on circuits across the Atlantic.

This 1/43 scale reproduction is a valuable testament to the golden age of IMSA endurance racing, where European and American drivers competed for victory on legendary tracks like Riverside International Raceway.

Miniature Features

  • Model: BMW 3.5 CSL IMSA
  • Brand: BMW
  • Scale: 1/43 scale
  • Color: White, blue and red
  • Race number: 24
  • Event: 6 hours of Riverside (California)
  • Drivers: Posey / Redman
  • Manufacturer: Minichamps
  • Protective case included: Yes

Description of the actual model

The BMW 3.5 CSL was specifically developed for competition in the 1970s, marking the ultimate evolution of the BMW E9 coupe family. The designation "CSL" stands for "Coupé Sport Leichtbau" (lightweight construction), reflecting the philosophy of this lighter version weighing nearly 200 kg less than the standard CSi. This weight reduction was achieved through extensive use of aluminum for the hood, doors, and trunk.

Powered by a 3.5-liter inline 6-cylinder engine producing around 360 horsepower in its racing version, the CSL IMSA featured specific aerodynamics with its characteristic rear wing and pronounced fender extensions. These modifications earned it the affectionate nickname "Batmobile" from enthusiasts, given its spectacular and futuristic look for the time.

On the IMSA American tracks, this BMW competed with Porsche 911 Carrera RSRs and formidable Chevrolet Corvettes, distinguishing itself with its reliability and consistent performance over long distances. Its commercial success in competition greatly contributed to establishing BMW's sporting reputation in the United States.

Description of the BMW brand in the IMSA context

In the 1970s, BMW was undergoing a significant period of international expansion. The Bavarian brand, bolstered by its successes in Formula 1 and on European circuits, sought to conquer the American market by proving the value of its technologies on the tracks across the Atlantic. The commitment to IMSA represented a perfect technological showcase to demonstrate the qualities of its engines and expertise in chassis.

Founded in 1916, BMW initially made its mark in aviation before shifting towards automobiles in the 1920s. The brand's history has been characterized by a constant search for technical innovation and performance. The 1970s marked the peak of this philosophy with models such as the 2002 Turbo and of course the legendary CSLs. This period definitively established BMW as a premium manufacturer combining luxury and sportiness.

The IMSA program was part of this overarching strategy, allowing BMW to develop technologies that would later benefit production models, while building a sporting brand image essential to its commercial development in America.

The saga of Riverside and its legendary drivers

The Riverside International Raceway in California was considered one of the most technical and demanding circuits in the IMSA championship. Its 3.2 kilometers of winding track, with significant elevation changes and blind corners, presented a daunting challenge for drivers and mechanics. The BMW 3.5 CSL number 24 driven by the duo Posey/Redman particularly shone there.

Sam Posey, a versatile American driver who competed in Formula 1, Trans-Am, and Can-Am, brought his perfect knowledge of American circuits. His teammate Brian Redman, a British legend of endurance racing and winner of the Targa Florio and the 1000 km of Nürburgring, perfectly complemented this duo with his European experience and mastery of prototypes.

The 6 hours of Riverside race was particularly daunting due to California's climatic conditions and the significant tire wear on this abrasive track. The BMW 3.5 CSL, thanks to its balanced design and legendary mechanical reliability, proved perfectly suited to these extreme conditions. This race marked the peak of the IMSA's golden age when European and American manufacturers competed on equal terms.

The success of this BMW testifies to the excellence of German engineering adapted to American specifications, creating a cultural and technical bridge between two continents passionate about automobiles and competition.

Complete your miniature collection

This BMW 3.5 CSL IMSA Minichamps naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to BMW miniature cars or race cars. It pairs perfectly with other models from the CSL range or with the BMWs from Formula 1 of the same era.

Enthusiasts of American endurance racing will enjoy pairing it with Porsche 911 Carrera RSRs or Ferrari cars that competed in the same championship. This miniature appeals to both collectors specializing in the 1970s and BMW history enthusiasts seeking to own an authentic witness of the Bavarian saga in America.

The Minichamps quality and the 1/43 scale make it a sought-after item for any lover of fine mechanics, whether a novice or a seasoned collector. This BMW tells an unknown yet fascinating chapter of automotive history, where European performance and American circuits converged for the greatest enjoyment of enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to understand the scales of miniatures?

Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.

Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.

What scales are available?

Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.

The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).

Does the model car come with protection?

Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.

How is my package protected during transport?

We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.

What is the delivery time?

In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.

The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?

It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.

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