Grip BMW 3.0 CSL "Racing"

A highly collectible 1/28 scale model of the BMW 3.0 CSL Racing, produced by Van Grip in Japan. This model is one of the rarer productions from the Japanese toy industry and is beloved by collectors of classic racing car miniatures.

The BMW 3.0 CSL was launched in 1972 as a homologation model for the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC). The "L" in CSL stands for Leichtbau – lightweight – and BMW made every effort to reduce weight. Aluminum panels, thinner glass, and minimalist finishes made the CSL a pure sports car.

In motorsports, the 3.0 CSL would become an icon. With its striking spoiler package and aerodynamic wings, it earned the nickname "Batmobile," a name that remains synonymous with its spectacular appearance to this day. The car dominated European touring car racing in the 1970s and was driven by legendary drivers, definitively securing its place in motorsport history.

The Van Grip brand is a lesser-known but highly valued part of Japanese model car culture from the 1970s and 1980s. During this period, Japanese manufacturers were known for their high production quality, metal construction, and attention to detail. Although Van Grip was not a mass-produced company like Bandai or Tomica, it focused on smaller production runs of exceptionally detailed models.

This BMW 3.0 CSL Racing is among the finest scale models from that era, thanks to its precise proportions, fine workmanship, and solid construction. Van Grip models are less frequently offered, making them attractive to collectors of vintage Japanese diecast and rare racing models. The scale model itself is in excellent condition, remarkable for its age. This is clearly a model that has been carefully preserved.

The model comes with its original packaging, which significantly increases its collector value. The box, however, shows the usual signs of age, slight discoloration, and tears.

Despite its condition, it remains a valuable part of the collection, especially considering the rarity of original Van Grip packaging.