An Italian Company Is Transforming the BMW M2 into a ‘70s Racing IconCar and DriverBrendan McAleerWed, September 23, 2026 at 8:45 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe BMW M2 Is Being Turned into a '70s Racing IconRiverti AutomobiliItalian coachbuilder Riverti Automobili is teasing a rebodied BMW M2 that looks like a 1970s BMW 3.0 CSLA homologation racing special, the 3.0 CSL had wild aerodynamics and is about the same size as a modern M2.No details on performance or price yet, but expect both to be very lofty.When the second-generation BMW M2 arrived for the 2023 model year, the two reactions from the general public were: 1.) Yes please, and 2.) Does it have to look like that though? BMW gave enthusiasts nearly everything they wanted, from twin-turbocharged inline-six power to an available manual transmission for the diehards, and then wrapped it in a package that was approximately 35 percent too much Minecraft.Thankfully, if it wasn't quite as pretty as the previous generation, at least it drove like a concentrated-espresso version of the M4. A stick shift and nearly 500 horsepower make a pretty compelling argument, and anyone offended by the M2's styling won't have to look at it for very long because it'll be gone in a flash.Riverti AutomobiliHowever, when measured against the elegance of BMW's back catalog, the current M2 could have been a little prettier. Fret not, an Italian coachbuilder called Riverti Automobili is here to reclothe the M2 in some snappy 1970s fashion that stretches all the way back to the very beginning of BMW's M subbrand.AdvertisementAdvertisementBack in the '70s, BMW decided the best way to dominate in touring car racing was to take its genteel E9 and create a homologation special that looked like a supervillain's getaway car—or a superhero's ride; the 1972 3.0 CSL had such wild aerodynamics that it was nicknamed the "Batmobile" and the name stuck. Fun fact, the huge rear wing was actually delivered uninstalled in the trunk from the factory, as it wasn't actually road-legal in Germany.Riverti AutomobiliThe 3.0 CSL did well enough to become a cornerstone of BMW's motorsports history, and it's considered the first M car, though never badged as one. Three years ago, BMW paid homage to this legend by releasing a limited run of 50 M4s reworked to look like the 1970s original.The idea was sound, but a modern M4 is a lot bigger than an E9 is (like most new cars these days, BMW's idea of a coupe has grown). The M2 is actually much closer to the E9's length and wheelbase, although the modern car is wider, and thus it's been chosen as the basis for Riverti Automobili's creation.It's not exactly a restomod, more an application of retro style on a modern chassis. The design incorporates plenty of carbon fiber for the widebody design, so it should also fit the 3.0 CSL's original designation: Coupe, Sport, Light.Riverti AutomobiliSpeaking of light, Riverti Automobili is only teasing things at this stage, as details are pretty light. There's no mention of power, weight, availability, or—perhaps most importantly—cost. Considering that BMW charged $750,000 for its 2023 M4 CSL, this rebodied M2 is hardly going to be a bargain.AdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, taking a retro icon and placing it over a dynamically excellent chassis does sound like a winning combination. Looking at the M2's layout a little more closely, if Riverti Automobili has success with this project, the boxy shape of an E30 M3 would also make for a great classic-meets-modern marriage. For now, we can't wait to see more pictures that shed a little more light on this Italian 3.0 CSL homage.➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029