Build Specifications
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
Specifications
Body
| No. of doors/seats | 2/4 | ||
| Length/width/height (unladen) | mm | 4,492/1,780/1,365 | |
| Wheelbase | mm | 2,729 | |
| Track, front/rear | mm | 1,518/1,525 | |
| Turning circle | m | 11.0 | |
| Tank capacity | approx.ltr | 63 | |
| Cooling system inc. heater | ltr | 10.7 | |
| Engine oil | ltr | 7.0 | |
| Transmission fluid | ltr | 1.9 | |
| Final drive fluid | ltr | 1.2 | |
| Unladen weight, EU | kg | 1,385 | |
| Max. load to DIN standard | kg | 415 | |
| Max. permissible weight to DIN | kg | 1,800 | |
| Max. axle load, front/rear | kg | 880/1,020 | |
| Luggage compartment to VDA st. | ltr | 410 | |
| Air drag | Cx*A | 0.683 |
Power unit
| Configuration/cylinders/valves | Straight/6/4 | ||
| Engine management | MSS 54HP | ||
| Capacity | cc | 3,246 | |
| Bore/stroke | mm | 87.0/91.0 | |
| Compression ratio | 1 | 11.5 | |
| Fuel | RON | 98 | |
| Output | kW/bhp | 265/360 | |
| at | rpm | 7,900 | |
| Torque | Nm (lb-ft) | 370(273) | |
| at | rpm | 4,900 |
Electrical system
| Battery/location | Ah/- | 55/luggage comp | |
| Alternator | A/W | 120/7,680 |
Suspension
| Front | Single-joint spring strut axle with displaced castor; small positive steering roll radius, compensation of transverse forces, anti-dive | |
| Rear | central-arm axle with longitudinal control arms and double track control arms, anti-squat and anti-dive |
Brakes
| Front | Single-piston swing-caliper disc brakes | ||
| Diameter | mm | 345 x 28, vented | |
| Rear | Single-piston swing-caliper disc brakes | ||
| Diameter | mm | 328 x 20, vented | |
| Driving stability systems | ABS, CBC, DSC; M differential lock |
Steering - Rack-and-pinion
| Overall steering transmission | 1 | 14.5 |
Transmission Six-speed manual
| Transmission ratios and maximum speed at 8000rpm | : | ||
| 1st | 4.227 | 39.29mph (63.23km/h) | |
| 2nd | 2.528 | 65.69mph (105.72km/h) | |
| 3rd | 1.669 | 99.50mph (160.14km/h) | |
| 4th | 1.226 | 135.46mph (218.00km/h) | |
| 5th | 1.000 | 166.07mph (267.27km/h) | |
| 6th | 0.828 | 200.57mph (322.79km/h) | |
| Rev | 3.746 | 44.33mph (71.35km/h) | |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.620 | ||
| Tyres, front/rear | 235/35 ZR19 | 265/30 ZR19 | |
| Rims, front/rear | 8.5J x 19 EH 2 IS 44 alu | 9.5J x 19 EH 2 IS 27 alu |
Performance
| Power-to-weight ratio to DIN stand | kg/kW | 5.2 | |
| Output per litre | kW/bhp | 81.6/111.0 | |
| Acceleration | |||
| 0—62 mph | sec | 4.9 | |
| Stand-start km | sec | 23.5 | |
| In 4th gear 62—80 mph | sec | 5.0 | |
| Top speed | Restricted cars top speed = 161mph / 259km/h (167mph / 269km/h indicated). Derestricted cars top speed = 174mph / 280km/h (180mph / 290km/h indicated) |
Fuel consumption (Eu cycle)
| Urban | Mpg | 15.9 | |
| Extra urban | Mpg | 33.6 | |
| Composite | Mpg | 23.7 | |
| CO2 | g/km | 287 |
Other data
| Emission category | EU3 |
