Few automotive brands evoke as much passion as BMW, the Bavarian marque that has long defined “Pure Driving Pleasure.” Nowhere is this enthusiasm more apparent than in South Africa, a country with deep-rooted ties to BMW’s motorsport heritage and high-performance engineering. On Thursday, March 27, Creative Rides is set to host a landmark auction at its Bryanston showroom, offering collectors a rare chance to acquire six of the most celebrated BMW models of all time.
These six automotive icons will headline an extraordinary line-up of 33 cars spanning a wide range of marques and eras. Other standout models set to go under the hammer include rare and elegant Mercedes-Benz models, Porsches, Alfa Romeos, two Ferraris, and even an ultra-rare 1940s Cadillac convertible.
“We are particularly thrilled to be offering these iconic BMWs to the public,” says Kevin Derrick, CEO of Creative Rides. “Each of these cars represents a unique chapter in BMW’s history, and we expect a strong turnout from passionate collectors.”
The BMW Legends on Offer
1972 BMW 3.0 CSL E9 – The ‘Batmobile’ That Conquered the Track
BMW’s 3.0 CSL was a game-changer in the European Touring Car Championship and gained international fame for its dramatic aerodynamic additions, earning the nickname ‘Batmobile.’ A 3.0 CSL also cemented BMW’s motorsport legacy in South Africa, claiming victory at the 1976 Wynn’s 1000 km endurance race at Kyalami with Jody Scheckter behind the wheel. The example on offer, finished in striking yellow with black pin-striping, is one of only 1,265 ever built, making it a true collector’s piece.
1985 BMW M635CSi – The Grand Tourer with Motorsport Pedigree
As the successor to the CSL, the M635CSi brought race-inspired engineering to the road. Powered by a 3.5-litre, 24-valve M88 engine producing 210 kW, this elegant yet powerful coupe was one of the most desirable BMWs of the 1980s. With just 5,855 units produced globally, it remains a rare and sought-after machine.
1987 BMW E30 333i – South Africa’s Homegrown Motorsport Marvel
A true South African special, the BMW 333i was developed as an alternative to the E30 M3, which was never officially sold in the country. This homologation special featured a 3.2-litre straight-six engine, Alpina-styled bodywork, and a Getrag five-speed gearbox. With only 210 units produced between 1985 and 1987, the red example at this auction, adorned with subtle BMW Motorsport striping, is a unique opportunity for local collectors.
1988 BMW M5 E28 – The Birth of the Super Sedan
The E28-generation M5 set the standard for high-performance sedans, combining luxury with blistering performance. Its 3.5-litre, 24-valve engine made it one of the fastest four-door cars of its era, with just 2,241 units built. The example at Creative Rides, finished in Aero Silver with pristine BBS alloy rims, is a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess.
1991 & 1993 BMW 325iS Evo – The Ultimate Group N Contender
Nicknamed the “Gusheshe,” the BMW 325iS Evo is a legend in South African motorsport. Built for the Group N production car championship, it featured a 2.7-litre straight-six engine, aggressive aero enhancements, and iconic BBS wheels. The presence of two examples at this auction is a rare occurrence, as just over 500 were produced.
2005 BMW M3 CSL E46 – The Purist’s Choice
Widely regarded as one of the finest M cars ever built, the E46 M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Leichtbau) was an exercise in weight reduction and performance enhancement. With a carbon-fibre roof, an upgraded S54 engine, and razor-sharp handling, it remains a holy grail for BMW enthusiasts. The model on offer, finished in an eye-catching yellow, adds an extra layer of exclusivity to an already special car.
A Celebration of Automotive Excellence
While BMW takes centre stage, the auction also boasts an exceptional selection of vehicles from other prestigious brands. Mercedes-Benz will be represented by rare models such as the 1952 W187 sedan, a 1956 190SL, and the elegant 1968-69 280SL Pagoda. Porsche collectors will have their eyes on a 1980 911 Targa and a 2006 911 Turbo S, while Italian exotica includes a 1989 Ferrari 328 GTS and a 2000 Ferrari 550 Maranello.
American muscle and elegance are also well accounted for, with a 1965 Mustang convertible, a 1970 Boss 302 fastback, and a stunning 1948 Cadillac 62 Series convertible. Meanwhile, British automotive history is represented by a rare 1958 MGA Twin Cam roadster and a stately 1949 Jaguar Mark V sedan.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
“As a lifelong automotive enthusiast, I can say without a doubt that this auction is a once-in-a-lifetime event,” concludes Kevin Derrick. “These cars are not just investments; they are rolling pieces of history that continue to captivate drivers and collectors around the world.”
The Creative Rides March Marques Auction takes place at 6:30 pm on Thursday, March 27, at the Bryanston showroom. For more details, visit www.creativerides.co.za.
