Riverti Automobili, an Italian coachbuilder, is previewing a BMW M2 reimagined with the styling of a 1970s BMW 3.0 CSL. The original 3.0 CSL, a homologation racing model known for its bold aerodynamics, shares similar dimensions to today’s M2.
No details on performance or price have been released yet, but both are expected to be very high.
A Blast from the Past
The second-generation BMW M2 arrived for the 2023 model year, and the general public had two reactions: enthusiasm for its performance and disappointment with its styling. The M2 has a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine and an available manual transmission, but its design was not as well-received as its predecessor.
However, the M2 drives well, with a stick shift and nearly 500 horsepower. Its styling may not be to everyone’s taste, but its performance makes up for it.
In contrast, the 1970s BMW 3.0 CSL is considered a design icon. It was created as a homologation special for touring car racing and had a distinctive look with a huge rear wing. The wing was actually delivered uninstalled in the trunk from the factory, as it was not road-legal in Germany.
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A Modern Take on a Classic
Riverti Automobili’s rebodied M2 is not a restomod, but rather an application of retro style on a modern chassis. The design incorporates plenty of carbon fiber for the widebody design, making it a lightweight and sporty vehicle.
The idea of taking a retro icon and placing it over a dynamically excellent chassis is a winning combination. The M2 is a good base for this project, as it is closer in size to the original E9 than the modern M4.
While details are still scarce, the prospect of a retro-styled M2 is exciting. If Riverti Automobili is successful with this project, it could pave the way for other classic-meets-modern marriages, such as an E30 M3-style vehicle.
Riverti Automobili’s project is notable because it combines the best of both worlds: the style of a classic car and the performance of a modern vehicle. They are using a modern BMW M2 as the base for their project, which provides a solid foundation for their design. The result is a unique vehicle that pays homage to the past while still offering the benefits of modern technology.
