Riverti Unveils Camouflaged M2 Prototype Reimagined as 1970s 3.0 CSL

Key points

• Riverti Automobili displayed a camouflaged prototype of its M2-based 3.0 CSL tribute at the Tutto Bene Hillclimb in Italy.
• The vehicle features a full rebody with quad round headlights, a smaller kidney grille, flared fenders, and a prominent double rear wing.
• The prototype reportedly retains the stock twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine from the G87 M2, which produces 473 hp.
• Specifications for transmission, weight, performance tuning, production numbers, and pricing have not been released.
• Riverti describes the project as a 'retro' modern underpinning rather than a restoration, distinguishing it from BMW's 2023 factory 3.0 CSL tribute.

Background

This development follows BMW's 2023 release of a factory 3.0 CSL tribute based on the G82 M4, which was limited to 50 units. Recent archive coverage indicates BMW is currently shifting production of its next-generation 3 Series to Dingolfing, with new models featuring 3.0-liter inline-six engines and hybrid technology expected to launch in 2027. The current M2 platform serves as the donor vehicle for Riverti's project, offering a rear-wheel-drive chassis and manual transmission options that align with the historical CSL's motorsport heritage.

How outlets are covering it

Motor1.com emphasizes the prototype's status as a full rebody rather than a styling package, noting that power and weight specifications remain undisclosed. Gear Patrol highlights the difficulty of translating modern proportions into old-school aesthetics, praising the front-end cues but noting that the rear lines still show M2 characteristics. Car and Driver focuses on the Italian coachbuilder's transformation of the M2 into a 1970s racing icon, though the provided text was largely obscured by code. All sources agree that the project targets a niche collector market, with success dependent on limited production numbers and high pricing to maintain exclusivity.

Why it matters

The project demonstrates the growing trend of 'retromods' that apply historical design language to modern platforms, offering collectors a way to access iconic aesthetics without the maintenance challenges of original classics. It also highlights the competitive landscape for BMW tributes, as third-party coachbuilders now offer alternatives to factory-limited editions, potentially expanding the market for retro-styled performance vehicles.

What to watch

Riverti Automobili is expected to release official specifications, pricing, and production numbers in the coming months. A formal reveal date has not been announced, but the appearance of a functional prototype at the hillclimb suggests the project is nearing completion. Buyers will likely wait for detailed information on engine tuning and transmission options before making purchase decisions.