A year or so later, while living in a sleepy seaside community outside of Vancouver, I saw a rusty, moldy 1971 2800 coupe in a garage just up the road. He offered it to me for $700. I figured it might be good for parts if I could find somewhere to store it. Just at the same time, another 2800 coupe showed up on the other side of town for $2,800. What a coincidence, it must be an act of God or something. For $1 per cubic-centimeter (a good price by any standard) the 2800CS wasn't in bad shape. It was missing many of the parts that were still somewhat attached to the donor car, and with a little TLC (OK a lot of grueling work) it could be coaxed into shape.
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| At about a $1 per cubic-centimeter, the two 2800 coupes could be pieced together into one car with a 'little' TLC. (Photo: www.roadfly.org) |
There were only a few drawbacks. First of all it was a 2800 and I had my heart set on a 3.0-liter. This 2800 didn't have a sunroof and only a cloth interior. Also 2800 coupes came with rear drum brakes instead of discs. Although affordable it was still a major undertaking, and after all the work that would be required to make it roadworthy I wouldn't end up with what I had been wanting in the first place. I reluctantly walked away yet again.
By now it might appear that I'm commitment-phobic, but I attest to having had two marriages, two children, a few employees and even a money-sucking Maserati that prove otherwise - but I digress once again.
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| After seeing Andy Garcia drive a 3.0CS in "When a Man Loves a Woman" the passion has been rekindled. (Photo: www.bmw6er-club.com) |
Since the 2800 I've seen a few fine examples for sale. Unfortunately their proud owners were asking more money than I could afford (usually $17,000 to $25,000) and debatably more than they were worth. I have to admit that my dream has been blurred over the last few years from the realities of life. Recently however, I was pleasantly surprised to see a 3.0CS being driven by Andy Garcia in the film "When a Man Loves a Woman" - Meg Ryan and a 3.0 CSi, lucky dog. My desire for the elusive CS has been re-ignited once again.