What's all this about?
In one of those wonderful automotive curve balls that appears to come out of nowhere, BMW is reviving the E9 3.0 CSL 'Batmobile' for the Concorso d'Eleganza at the Villa d'Este, with the covers set to come off on May 22.
Hold the bat-phone, do you really mean this is a new 3.0 CSL?
We sure as hell hope so, but don't hold your breath. It has been penned by the BMW Design Team for the annual Italian style extravaganza, yet that doesn't make it any less exciting. It is called the BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage, with its E9 inspiration clear for all to see - even in this titillating-yet-infuriating teaser shot.
Wow, what engine does it have?
No idea. Indeed, we think this is just a styling exercise, sadly; it should still be very beautiful, though. The large roof and rear spoilers are almost direct lifts from the 1972 classic, while bulging wheel arches and giant air intakes add to the sense of menace. The colour it is painted in looks like a genuine option from the 1970s version - Golf, or Gulf, Yellow - while to ensure it really is a 'Lightweight', lots of carbon fibre is used in the body.
How about within?
It has been pared down to the bare basics, with BMW saying everything in its cabin is "absolutely essential, with each constituent having a high-quality structural or driving-related function". Although we reckon Scheel bucket seats and wood veneer trim might be pushing the homage (or should we say 'Hommage'?) thing a bit far.
You're looking forward to seeing this revealed fully, aren't you?
Yes. Oh yes. The E9 CSL is one of BMW's - and the wider automotive world's - genuine all-time greats, so to see it live again, even as a unique concept destined never to see the light of a showroom, is something we're delighted by. Here's to the end of May!
Matt Robinson - 12 May 2015