Few BMW cars of old and new trigger as much fire in a gearhead’s belly as the 3.0 CSL. Developed under Jochen Neerpasch’s close supervision, the light coupé provided a splendid base for racing and BMW was quick to capitalize on that.

So was Khyzyl Saleem, with another unique interpretation of an iconic race car that rightfully earned its nickname: The Batmobile.

Why is the BMW 3.0 CSL so revered?

Based on the road-legal BMW E9 3.0 CS/CSi, the 3.0 CSL established itself as a very successful out-and-out race car after its introduction in 1972. The ‘L’ in its name came from ‘leicht’ which is German for ‘light’.

Mind you, the naming scheme wasn’t just a marketing stunt - BMW’s engineers fitted the 3.0 CSL with thinner steel panels and aluminum bits and bobs. In fact, the doors were aluminum alloy, just like the hood and the trunk lid. The side windows were made of Perspex, aka acrylic glass or plexiglass.

Undoubtedly, what made the 3.0 CSL stand out was the intricate aero package that quickly got its Batmobile nickname. Funny thing about the rear wing - BMW didn't install it in the factory because at that time, such body elements were illegal on Germany’s roads. Instead, factory workers would place it in the trunk, so the owners had to mount it themselves once the dealer handed their new car.

BMW 3.0 CSL specifications

Of course, Khyzyl Saleem couldn’t just leave the 3.0 CSL as it is. So doing what he does best, the concept artist took the race car’s body and turned into something that looks destined for the next Batman movie. No, not the one starring Twilight’s Robert Pattinson, because that’s already going to feature a badass muscle-car-y Batmobile courtesy of Khyzyl’s fellow illustrator Ash Thorp.

So, what do you think? Is this 3.0 CSL Batmobile material or not?