History - Revision history

Streightsix at 18:53, 30 June 2020

2020-06-30T18:53:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:53, 30 June 2020
Line 1:		Line 1:

	== BMW GB Media Information made public on ~~23rd December 2003~~ ==		== BMW GB Media Information made public on 9th May 2001 ==

	<br />		<br />
	BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.		BMW GROUP AT IAA 2001:<br />
			09/05/2001 <br />

	~~Based on the ‘standard’ BMW~~ M3~~, the BMW M3 CSL (Coupe, Sport,~~ Lightweight) was priced at £58,455 on the road and was created by BMW’s M division using the latest lightweight materials. It also offered significant performance and handling enhancements, creating a car capable of breaking the illusive eight-minute lap time of the famous Nordschliefe, the North Circuit of the Nürburgring in Germany.		''M3 Lightweight Concept Car: Built for Speed''

	~~Delivering an impressive power~~ to ~~weight ratio of 3~~.~~85 kg/bhp~~, the ~~0—62 mph sprint was completed~~ in 4.~~9 seconds and, if left unchecked, would continue to an electronically limited 155 mph. As a first for any~~ BMW~~, customers holding a racing license could opt to have the limiter removed~~. The ~~braking system on~~ the ~~BMW~~ M3 CSL ~~was also uprated, slowing~~ the ~~car from 62—0 mph in less than 34 metres~~, ~~or just seven~~ and ~~half car lengths. As another first~~ for ~~BMW, specially developed racing brake pads were available for customers wishing to venture onto the track~~.		With this concept car BMW M shows that the awesome performance of the production M3 is by no means all that that platform has to offer. True to M's racing heritage, the modified 3.2 liter in-line six produces more than 350 horsepower. The six-speed transmission features BMW's Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with Drivelogic. The extra power of the M3 CSL is combined with a near 450 pound weight reduction. To make the best of the new-found power and lighter weight,19 inch wheels and tires cover 18 inch brakes for superior handling and braking.

	~~Such performance was made possible by~~ the intelligent use of lightweight materials. More than simply weight reduction, a myriad of carbon fibre composites and plastics were used to create body panels and components such as the roof and boot lid, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing the overall weight by 110 kgs to a svelte 1,385 kgs. Gerhard Richter, Vice President of BMW’s M Car Development commented “Intelligent lightweight construction + purist driving dynamics = BMW M3 CSL”.		BMW at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show<br />
			09/04/2001<br />

	~~Engine and gearbox enhancements also contributed to the cars’ seismic performance. An enhanced version of the~~ BMW M3’s 2003 International Engine of the Year powered the car, with the output raised from 343 to 360 bhp, delivered at 7,900 rpm, while torque was up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm. This was made possible by a larger air intake and air collector, air intake and volume calculated to Formula 1 principles, optimised exhaust valves and re profiled camshafts with longer opening times. The standard paddle-shift Sequential Manual Gearbox was also uprated, changing all six gears in just 0.08 seconds, if required.		''Built for Top Performance: BMW M3 CSL Lightweight Concept Car.''<br />

	~~Also contributing to~~ the ~~cars dynamic handling characteristics were~~ the ~~optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres~~, ~~with asymmetric treads, developed especially for~~ the ~~BMW M3 CSL. Measuring 235/35 ZR19~~ on ~~the front~~ and ~~265/30 ZR19 on~~ the ~~rear,~~ the ~~tyres helped~~ the ~~car deliver astounding lateral grip~~, ~~measuring up to 1.6g compared~~ to 1.~~2g for the ‘standard’ BMW M3~~, ~~itself a car that set~~ the ~~benchmark for handling and grip~~.		This will really make the hearts of all sports car enthusiasts skip a beat. Presenting the M3 CSL, BMW M is proudly highlighting the concept of a lightweight sports car at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show – a truly unique driving machine resting on wide wheels and impressively proving the potential of intelligent weight reduction. This is clearly borne out by three figures describing the fortes of this prototype not only to the connoisseur: Weight reduction of about 200 kilograms, power-to-weight ratio under 3.5 kilos per horsepower, lap time on the northern circuit of Nürburgring less than eight minutes.

	~~For customers who wished~~ to ~~explore~~ the ~~boundaries~~ of the ~~cars’ potential~~, the BMW M3 ~~CSL was fitted~~ with ~~M Track Mode~~, a ~~unique evolution~~ of the ~~familiar Dynamic Stability Control~~ (~~DSC~~) ~~system~~. ~~Switched~~ on ~~using~~ the ~~only~~ steering wheel-~~mounted button~~, ~~it gave~~ the ~~DSC system additional scope~~ for ~~drivers~~ to ~~push~~ the car to its ~~absolute limit~~ of ~~transverse~~ and ~~longitudinal acceleration~~, ~~whilst retaining~~ the ~~safety net~~ of ~~DSC~~ in the ~~case~~ of ~~over~~-~~exuberance~~.		''Formula 1 technology in lightweight and drive train engineering.''<br />

			This phenomenal lap time is the result of a consistent concept based on "intelligent" lightweight engineering: The optimum combination of materials and components using the most suitable material for each component and its specific requirements. This strategy is directly connected to BMW’s Formula 1 technology carried over to the road by the M3 CSL on a number of fundamental points. Just one example is the consistent use on the car of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic, the material in Formula 1 racing. Looking at the engine, the high-speed concept of BMW M’s well-known M3 straight-six again underlines the role of lightweight engineering in engine construction. Thoroughly modified, the upgraded engine comes with a streamlined cylinder charge process and friction reduced to a minimum, boosting output in the process with more than 350 bhp. And to shift gears within fractions of a second, ensuring a direct flow of power at all times, the car naturally features BMW’s Sequential M Gearbox with Drivelogic (SMG), again based directly on Formula 1 technology. Featuring electrohydraulic, microprocessor-controlled clutch operation, this highly advanced transmission is masterminded by two paddles directly on the steering wheel. Through its overall concept and harmony of features, this lightweight sports car is designed and built for dynamic motoring of the highest standard. Lightweight engineering is nevertheless not a purpose in itself by the making of the M3 CSL of BMW M. Rather, the absolute weight and the mass inertia of a car around its vertical axis are crucial to the car’s lateral, vertical and longitudinal dynamics – that is how the driver experiences the dynamic behavior of his car. Just for comparison, the series-production BMW M3 weighs 1,495 kg or 3,296 lb unladen, while the M3 CSL Concept Car is about 200 kilos (440 lb) lighter. Precisely this is the crucial factor, the power-to-weight ratio being essential for optimum longitudinal dynamics, that is fast acceleration. And here the improvement is even more significant, the series-production M3 coming with a power-to-weight ratio of 4.36 kg/bhp (9.6 lb/bhp) versus less than 3.5 kg/bhp (7.7 lb/bhp) of the M3 CSL Concept Car.

			''Dynamic driving test of the toughest caliber on the northern circuit of Nürburgring.''<br />

			There is no better place in the world to test all these dynamic performance criteria as thoroughly and quickly as the northern circuit of Nürburgring, the most demanding racetrack in the world. This is where the great stand out from the good and the good beat the bad in terms of their driving dynamics, with the total lap time obviously depending on the interplay of all components within the car. Covering the northern circuit in well under eight minutes, the M3 CSL Concept Car beats its production counterpart by almost 30 seconds. The lightweight concept comes out clearly in the M3 CSL Concept Car in many respects and on many features: The flaps in the front air dam, exterior mirror housing and the roof are visibly made of carbon-fiber. The front air dam itself as well as the doors are made of carbon-fiber finished in body color, as are the rear lid optimized for perfect streamlining with its higher rear spoiler and the rear-end diffuser. A solid sandwich panel takes the place of the through-loading bulkhead between the passenger compartment and the luggage compartment, and the two racing-style bucket seats for the driver and front passenger as well as the door linings, the center console and instrument trim are also made of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic.

			''Further reduction in weight through specific use of alternative materials.''

			Carbon-fibre is however not the only alternative: The body-in-white is pressed out of high-strength steel panels, the rear window is made of extra-thin glass, the floorpan is in sandwich structure. The floor panel in the luggage compartment, in turn, is a honeycomb sandwich plate normally to be found only in aerospace applications, the substrate beneath the instrument panel is made of magnesium. Even the bottom layer beneath the carpet on the floor comes in weight-optimized foam. The M3 CSL Concept Car rests on 19-inch wheels incorporating 18-inch lightweight brakes for supreme stopping power. Lightweight engineering need not necessarily mean spartan motoring: With the exception of side airbags, the toolbox and the rear seats replaced by storage boxes, the driver and his passenger do not have to forego any of the usual amenities. At least in theory, because the M3 CSL Concept Car is a unique, one-off model not for sale.<br />

Streightsix at 15:38, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T15:38:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:38, 29 June 2020
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	For customers who wished to explore the boundaries of the cars’ potential, the BMW M3 CSL was fitted with M Track Mode, a unique evolution of the familiar Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. Switched on using the only steering wheel-mounted button, it gave the DSC system additional scope for drivers to push the car to its absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, whilst retaining the safety net of DSC in the case of over-exuberance.		For customers who wished to explore the boundaries of the cars’ potential, the BMW M3 CSL was fitted with M Track Mode, a unique evolution of the familiar Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. Switched on using the only steering wheel-mounted button, it gave the DSC system additional scope for drivers to push the car to its absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, whilst retaining the safety net of DSC in the case of over-exuberance.


	~~'''From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL~~
	~~'''~~

	A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.

	A limited run will be built in Munich between June and December this year. Five hundred are destined for the UK and dealer order books are already full. First deliveries of the car, which is priced at £58,455 on-the-road, will begin in August.

	In creating the M3 CSL, which stands for Coupe, Sport and Lightweight, engineers at BMW’s M division succeeded in stripping 110 kg from the M3. The result is a car that benefits from an impressive power to weight ratio of just 3.85kg/bhp and accelerates from 0—62 in 4.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but can be de-limited for holders of a racing licence.

	But the M3 CSL, which is based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt in 2001, is not just about lighter materials. Designers were tasked with creating a car true to BMW’s motor sport heritage, right down to the last component. And by engineering a range of power and handling improvements, BMW has created a vehicle capable of breaking the eight minute lap time at the famous Nurburgring, North Circuit in Germany.


	~~So how did BMW create the M3 CSL?~~

	~~Intelligent lightweight technology~~

	For optimum weight reduction, BMW M engineers turned to ‘intelligent’ lightweight technology. This meant matching the most appropriate materials to the component or assembly requirements and resulted in widespread use of carbon fibre reinforced plastics, lightweight aluminium and glass fibre plastics.
	~~Much of this technology has been transferred from Formula 1.~~


	~~Award winning engine — made better~~

	BMW’s M3 engine has just received its third accolade in a row at the 2003 International Engine of the Year Awards. Now an enhanced version of this 3.2 litre straight-six power house, has been developed for the M3 CSL. Power output has been boosted from 343 to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm, while torque is up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm.

	~~The enhancements include:<br />~~
	~~• Thinner exhaust walls<br />~~
	~~• Larger air intake opening and carbon fibre air collector<br />~~
	~~• Camshafts with longer valve opening periods<br />~~
	~~• Air intake and volume calculated according to Fl principles<br />~~
	~~• Optimised exhaust valves<br />~~
	~~• Modified exhaust emission manifold<br />~~


	~~M3 CSL gearbox~~

	BMW M’s most sporting and dynamic transmission features on the M3 CSL - the paddle shift SMG gearbox with Drivelogic and new software. Based on Fl technology, it allows ultra-fast shifting through all six gears, using the gear stick or paddles, with changes taking just 0.08 seconds. Drivers can choose between sequential and automated mode.


	~~Handling dynamics~~

	Precision handling comes courtesy of a wider front track and modified suspension geometry, including bespoke springs and dampers. A more direct ratio for the rack-and-pinion steering (14.5 : 1, compared to 15.4 : 1 for the M3) offers greater steering response in all conditions. While substantially modified brakes slow the M3 CSL to a standstill from 62 mph in less than 34 metres — just seven and a half car lengths.


	~~Driver aids~~

	M Track Mode is a unique function of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), activated via a steering wheel mounted switch. This allows skilled track drivers to push the car to the absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, with DSC operating only where these limits are exceeded.

	The optional 19” wheels and tyres for the BMW M3 are fitted as standard but Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres, with asymmetric treads developed especially for the MS CSL mounted on unique alloy wheels, can be specified as a no cost option. The tyres, which are suitable for both road and track, measure 235/35 ZR 19 at the front and 265/30 ZR 19 at the rear. Complementing the performance of the car, they offer outstanding lateral grip, up to 1.6g, improving the M3 CSL’s already remarkable handling qualities and cornering capability.

	To ensure M3 CSL owners are comfortable with the handling of these specially designed optional tyres, dealers will explain the need for caution while they warm up and during very poor weather. Buyers will also be required to confirm that they are aware of and understand the unique performance characteristics.

	Free driver training for all M3 CSL customers is also included in the price. Worth £850, this offers drivers a day at the Pro-Drive Live circuit, driving under the guidance of experienced racing drivers, learning how to get the most out of the car.


	~~Interior~~

	~~In the cockpit, the M3 CSL follows the principles of a genuine sports car.~~
	~~Options are kept to a minimum, with a focus on the functional, like contoured, glass fibre bucket seats, offering optimum side support in fast bends.~~

	Centre console and door trims are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic and the M Sports steering wheel is clothed in Alcantara. To make best use of the reduced weight potential many features of modern cars normally considered as essential, such as air conditioning and a radio, are excluded from standard specification, but can be specified as no cost options if the customer wants them.

	~~Standard equipment - interior<br />~~
	~~• Cloth Laser/Amaretta ‘Reflex Pur’ Anthracite<br />~~
	~~• Anthracite Headlining<br />~~
	~~• Individual high gloss satin chrome<br />~~
	~~• Titanium Shadow Interior Trim<br />~~
	~~• Chrome gear lever knob<br />~~
	~~• 4 Seats<br />~~
	~~• M Steering Wheel with switch for M Track Mode<br />~~

	~~Standard equipment — exterior<br />~~
	~~• M3 CSL specific suspension settings<br />~~
	~~• M Mobility System to inflate tyres<br />~~
	~~• Tailgate with low loading sill and integrated rear spoiler<br />~~
	~~• Front apron without fog lights, with extra air intake<br />~~
	~~• Model designation M3 CSL<br />~~
	~~• Choice of Black Sapphire or Silver Grey metallic paint<br />~~
	~~• 19” double spoke alloy wheels style 67M<br />~~

	~~No cost options<br />~~
	~~• 19” M light alloy wheels ‘M3 CSL’ with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres<br />~~
	~~• Auto air conditioning<br />~~
	~~• BMW Business radio / cassette<br />~~
	~~• No model inscription<br />~~
	~~• Graduated tint front windscreen<br />~~
	~~• Smoker package~~

	~~Cost options<br />~~
	~~• Climate comfort front windscreen £190.00<br />~~
	~~• Floor mats £75.00<br />~~
	~~• Park Distance Control (PDC) £340.00<br />~~
	~~• Rain sensor £160.00<br />~~
	~~• Xenon headlights with headlamp wash £770.00<br />~~
	~~• Single CD £100<br />~~
	~~• Mini disc player £295.00<br />~~

Streightsix at 11:58, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T11:58:36Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:58, 29 June 2020
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	'''From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL		'''From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL
	'''		'''

	A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.		A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.

Streightsix at 11:57, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T11:57:36Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:57, 29 June 2020
Line 18:		Line 18:


	From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL		'''From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL
			'''
	A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.		A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.

Streightsix at 10:29, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T10:29:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:29, 29 June 2020
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	BMW’s M3 engine has just received its third accolade in a row at the 2003 International Engine of the Year Awards. Now an enhanced version of this 3.2 litre straight-six power house, has been developed for the M3 CSL. Power output has been boosted from 343 to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm, while torque is up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm.		BMW’s M3 engine has just received its third accolade in a row at the 2003 International Engine of the Year Awards. Now an enhanced version of this 3.2 litre straight-six power house, has been developed for the M3 CSL. Power output has been boosted from 343 to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm, while torque is up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm.

	The enhancements include:		The enhancements include:<br />
	• Thinner exhaust walls		• Thinner exhaust walls<br />
	• Larger air intake opening and carbon fibre air collector		• Larger air intake opening and carbon fibre air collector<br />
	• Camshafts with longer valve opening periods		• Camshafts with longer valve opening periods<br />
	• Air intake and volume calculated according to Fl principles		• Air intake and volume calculated according to Fl principles<br />
	• Optimised exhaust valves		• Optimised exhaust valves<br />
	• Modified exhaust emission manifold		• Modified exhaust emission manifold<br />

Streightsix at 09:17, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T09:17:39Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:17, 29 June 2020
Line 2:		Line 2:
	== BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003 ==		== BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003 ==

			<br />
	BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.		BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.

Streightsix at 09:16, 29 June 2020

2020-06-29T09:16:36Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:16, 29 June 2020
Line 1:		Line 1:

	== ~~History ==~~		== BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003 ==

	BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003

	BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.		BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.

Streightsix: Created page with " == History == BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003 BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced..."

2020-06-29T09:14:53Z

Created page with " == History == BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003 BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced..."

New page

== History ==

BMW GB Media Information made public on 23rd December 2003

BMW Great Britain has announced the planned end of production of the legendary BMW M3 CSL. Produced between June and December 2003, a total of 422 right hand drive cars were brought into the UK offering owners the ultimate and most authentic motor sport experience in a road-going production car.

Based on the ‘standard’ BMW M3, the BMW M3 CSL (Coupe, Sport, Lightweight) was priced at £58,455 on the road and was created by BMW’s M division using the latest lightweight materials. It also offered significant performance and handling enhancements, creating a car capable of breaking the illusive eight-minute lap time of the famous Nordschliefe, the North Circuit of the Nürburgring in Germany.

Delivering an impressive power to weight ratio of 3.85 kg/bhp, the 0—62 mph sprint was completed in 4.9 seconds and, if left unchecked, would continue to an electronically limited 155 mph. As a first for any BMW, customers holding a racing license could opt to have the limiter removed. The braking system on the BMW M3 CSL was also uprated, slowing the car from 62—0 mph in less than 34 metres, or just seven and half car lengths. As another first for BMW, specially developed racing brake pads were available for customers wishing to venture onto the track.

Such performance was made possible by the intelligent use of lightweight materials. More than simply weight reduction, a myriad of carbon fibre composites and plastics were used to create body panels and components such as the roof and boot lid, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing the overall weight by 110 kgs to a svelte 1,385 kgs. Gerhard Richter, Vice President of BMW’s M Car Development commented “Intelligent lightweight construction + purist driving dynamics = BMW M3 CSL”.

Engine and gearbox enhancements also contributed to the cars’ seismic performance. An enhanced version of the BMW M3’s 2003 International Engine of the Year powered the car, with the output raised from 343 to 360 bhp, delivered at 7,900 rpm, while torque was up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm. This was made possible by a larger air intake and air collector, air intake and volume calculated to Formula 1 principles, optimised exhaust valves and re profiled camshafts with longer opening times. The standard paddle-shift Sequential Manual Gearbox was also uprated, changing all six gears in just 0.08 seconds, if required.

Also contributing to the cars dynamic handling characteristics were the optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres, with asymmetric treads, developed especially for the BMW M3 CSL. Measuring 235/35 ZR19 on the front and 265/30 ZR19 on the rear, the tyres helped the car deliver astounding lateral grip, measuring up to 1.6g compared to 1.2g for the ‘standard’ BMW M3, itself a car that set the benchmark for handling and grip.

For customers who wished to explore the boundaries of the cars’ potential, the BMW M3 CSL was fitted with M Track Mode, a unique evolution of the familiar Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. Switched on using the only steering wheel-mounted button, it gave the DSC system additional scope for drivers to push the car to its absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, whilst retaining the safety net of DSC in the case of over-exuberance.

From lightweight concept to pure reality - the new BMW M3 CSL

A lighter, more powerful version of the legendary BMW M3 is ready to set pulses racing in the UK. First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the new M3 CSL is even quicker and more responsive than its thoroughbred cousin, promising driving purists the most authentic motor sport experience in a production car.

A limited run will be built in Munich between June and December this year. Five hundred are destined for the UK and dealer order books are already full. First deliveries of the car, which is priced at £58,455 on-the-road, will begin in August.

In creating the M3 CSL, which stands for Coupe, Sport and Lightweight, engineers at BMW’s M division succeeded in stripping 110 kg from the M3. The result is a car that benefits from an impressive power to weight ratio of just 3.85kg/bhp and accelerates from 0—62 in 4.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but can be de-limited for holders of a racing licence.

But the M3 CSL, which is based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt in 2001, is not just about lighter materials. Designers were tasked with creating a car true to BMW’s motor sport heritage, right down to the last component. And by engineering a range of power and handling improvements, BMW has created a vehicle capable of breaking the eight minute lap time at the famous Nurburgring, North Circuit in Germany.

So how did BMW create the M3 CSL?

Intelligent lightweight technology

For optimum weight reduction, BMW M engineers turned to ‘intelligent’ lightweight technology. This meant matching the most appropriate materials to the component or assembly requirements and resulted in widespread use of carbon fibre reinforced plastics, lightweight aluminium and glass fibre plastics.
Much of this technology has been transferred from Formula 1.

Award winning engine — made better

BMW’s M3 engine has just received its third accolade in a row at the 2003 International Engine of the Year Awards. Now an enhanced version of this 3.2 litre straight-six power house, has been developed for the M3 CSL. Power output has been boosted from 343 to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm, while torque is up from 365 to 370 Nm at 4,900 rpm.

The enhancements include:
• Thinner exhaust walls
• Larger air intake opening and carbon fibre air collector
• Camshafts with longer valve opening periods
• Air intake and volume calculated according to Fl principles
• Optimised exhaust valves
• Modified exhaust emission manifold

M3 CSL gearbox

BMW M’s most sporting and dynamic transmission features on the M3 CSL - the paddle shift SMG gearbox with Drivelogic and new software. Based on Fl technology, it allows ultra-fast shifting through all six gears, using the gear stick or paddles, with changes taking just 0.08 seconds. Drivers can choose between sequential and automated mode.

Handling dynamics

Precision handling comes courtesy of a wider front track and modified suspension geometry, including bespoke springs and dampers. A more direct ratio for the rack-and-pinion steering (14.5 : 1, compared to 15.4 : 1 for the M3) offers greater steering response in all conditions. While substantially modified brakes slow the M3 CSL to a standstill from 62 mph in less than 34 metres — just seven and a half car lengths.

Driver aids

M Track Mode is a unique function of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), activated via a steering wheel mounted switch. This allows skilled track drivers to push the car to the absolute limit of transverse and longitudinal acceleration, with DSC operating only where these limits are exceeded.

The optional 19” wheels and tyres for the BMW M3 are fitted as standard but Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres, with asymmetric treads developed especially for the MS CSL mounted on unique alloy wheels, can be specified as a no cost option. The tyres, which are suitable for both road and track, measure 235/35 ZR 19 at the front and 265/30 ZR 19 at the rear. Complementing the performance of the car, they offer outstanding lateral grip, up to 1.6g, improving the M3 CSL’s already remarkable handling qualities and cornering capability.

To ensure M3 CSL owners are comfortable with the handling of these specially designed optional tyres, dealers will explain the need for caution while they warm up and during very poor weather. Buyers will also be required to confirm that they are aware of and understand the unique performance characteristics.

Free driver training for all M3 CSL customers is also included in the price. Worth £850, this offers drivers a day at the Pro-Drive Live circuit, driving under the guidance of experienced racing drivers, learning how to get the most out of the car.

Interior

In the cockpit, the M3 CSL follows the principles of a genuine sports car.
Options are kept to a minimum, with a focus on the functional, like contoured, glass fibre bucket seats, offering optimum side support in fast bends.

Centre console and door trims are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic and the M Sports steering wheel is clothed in Alcantara. To make best use of the reduced weight potential many features of modern cars normally considered as essential, such as air conditioning and a radio, are excluded from standard specification, but can be specified as no cost options if the customer wants them.

Standard equipment - interior 
• Cloth Laser/Amaretta ‘Reflex Pur’ Anthracite 
• Anthracite Headlining 
• Individual high gloss satin chrome 
• Titanium Shadow Interior Trim 
• Chrome gear lever knob 
• 4 Seats 
• M Steering Wheel with switch for M Track Mode 

Standard equipment — exterior 
• M3 CSL specific suspension settings 
• M Mobility System to inflate tyres 
• Tailgate with low loading sill and integrated rear spoiler 
• Front apron without fog lights, with extra air intake 
• Model designation M3 CSL 
• Choice of Black Sapphire or Silver Grey metallic paint 
• 19” double spoke alloy wheels style 67M 

No cost options 
• 19” M light alloy wheels ‘M3 CSL’ with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres 
• Auto air conditioning 
• BMW Business radio / cassette 
• No model inscription 
• Graduated tint front windscreen 
• Smoker package

Cost options 
• Climate comfort front windscreen £190.00 
• Floor mats £75.00 
• Park Distance Control (PDC) £340.00 
• Rain sensor £160.00 
• Xenon headlights with headlamp wash £770.00 
• Single CD £100 
• Mini disc player £295.00