BMW M3 CSL (E46) | Sports Cars

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Year (of specifications)	2003 - 2004
Engine	3246 cc 6 cylinder
Transmission	6-speed, sequential manual
Max speed	155 mph limited
0-60 mph	4.8 seconds
Horsepower	360 bhp @ 7900 rpm
weight	1385 kg / 3054 lbs

The BMW M3 CSL was the M3 in its purest form. A car reduced to the pure driving essentials. This meant consistent reduction of weight by using the most appropriate materials at the right point. Carbon-fiber -reinforced plastic, one of the most important materials in Formula 1, for example, not only reduces the overall weight of the car (weighing approximately 243 lbs less than the standard M3, the M3 CSL has an overall weight of just 3,054 lbs), but also allows even higher speeds in bends particularly through the use of this lightweight material at the extreme ends of the car.

Focusing on their quest to reduce weight, the engineers at BMW M took a close look at virtually every component of the M3, in each case using the most suitable materials in order to save weight. As a result, the M3 CSL even comes with glass-fiber plastics otherwise used for aerospace applications such as endless-glass-fibre thermoplastics serving as the structural material for the through-loading system and on the rear bumper supports.

The M3 CSL's significant increase in power and performance is however not only the result of intelligent lightweight engineering. Rather, the straight-six power unit already renowned for its high engine speeds has been enhanced to an even higher standard, BMW M’s engineers boosting maximum output to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm from 3.2 liters capacity, that is a sensational output- per-liter figure of 111 bhp. Maximum torque, in turn, is 273 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm.

Wider front track and modified suspension geometry give the M3 CSL a standard of dynamic driving performance otherwise only a thoroughbred racing car is able to offer. These modifications include specially made springs and dampers as well as the car’s newly aligned steering for supreme, cutting-edge handling. The brakes have also been modified for even more stopping power and faster deceleration, allowing the M3 CSL to reach a standstill from 60 mph in less than 34 meters. And for special purposes on the race track, the car is also available with sports brake linings.

Inside, the M3 CSL aga in follows the concept of supreme function and minimum weight wherever it makes sense. Reflecting the purist standard of motorsport, the car does without electric seat heating or a navigation system, and both the radio and air conditioning are only available as an option. A special feature on the clear-cut dashboard is the CFP covers on top, the centre console, door and side linings also being made of the same material.

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