The Birth of a Unique Hybrid
BMW never produced an E9 CSL with a 400-horsepower V8 and a manual gearbox. But one brand enthusiast did, and now the result—a handcrafted fusion of classic coupe style and E39 M5 performance—is looking for a new owner.
Creation Story from MKO
This inconspicuous hybrid of old and new BMW was created by the German workshop MKO, founded by enthusiast Michael Oberhauser, about 10 years ago. Instead of simply installing a modern engine into a classic body, he went much further. The project effectively merged an E39 M5 with parts from two E9 CS coupes, creating a car that combines 1970s style with the performance of a 21st-century M car.
Technical Details of the Transformation
The transformation was not a simple body swap. According to details from the original build story on Motor Trend, the top part of the M5 structure was removed, the floor was shortened by approximately 8 inches (203 mm), and the roof from the E9 was grafted onto the chassis.
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To make everything look right, the front fenders were widened by approximately 2.5 inches (64 mm), and the rear by approximately 4 inches (102 mm). Much of the fabrication work was done in Romania, where experienced craftsmen hand-formed custom panels for significantly less money than it would have cost in Germany.
Details in “Batmobile” Style
The finished product is simultaneously a tribute and a hot rod. It features aerodynamic elements inspired by the CSL Batmobile, such as a roof spoiler and tiny fins on the front fenders, Hella headlights, a 3.0 CSL badge, and Porsche paint. The current version rides on 19-inch Alpina-style wheels shod with Continental SportContact 7 tires, which replaced the E39 M5 wheels that were on the car during its early media appearances.
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Inside, the illusion begins to shatter in the best way possible. The modified M5 dashboard remains, complemented by heated Recaro seats, dual-zone climate control, power windows, and a Pioneer touchscreen. It is a classic coupe meeting a modern sports sedan with some clever workarounds to make it all function, such as relocating the driver’s power window switch panel to the center console.
Powertrain and Chassis
Power comes from a rebuilt 4.9-liter S62 V8 engine from the donor E39 M5, which is claimed to produce 426 hp (432 PS). The engine sends power to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, while adjustable KW coilovers and brakes from the M5 help keep everything under control. The car is listed for sale on Bring a Trailer Germany.
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This project is a brilliant example of how passion and craftsmanship can create a car that never existed in BMW’s factory lineup. The combination of the classic E9 coupe design with the modern, powerful internals from the M5 makes it more than just a restomod; it is a true work of engineering art. It is worth noting that the use of two donor E9 coupes and the meticulous work of shortening the wheelbase demonstrate an incredible level of detail. Such a car would undoubtedly become the jewel of any collection, as it blends the spirit of the past with the reliability and performance of modern vehicles, offering a unique driving experience unobtainable from any stock BMW.