BMW M3 CSL (2004/54)
SOLD
In 2003, the Munich based automotive powerhouse BMW reintroduced the acronym “CSL” into their product line for the first time since the 1970s. Standing for Coupe Sport Leichtbau, BMW had created a driver and track focused version of their already brilliant E46 M3.
With an emphasis on weight reduction over outright power gains, BMW managed to reduce the weight of the CSL by 110kg over a standard M3 using lighter composites throughout the car including glass reinforced plastics and carbon fibre along with the removal of sound insulation, electric seats, air conditioning and stereo.
A host of chassis enhancements were also carried out including stiffer springs, upgraded dampers and a quicker steering rack. Sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres were also deployed and the use of a carbon fibre roof helped to lower the centre of gravity for the car.
The engine was lightly fettled to produce an additional 17hp and 5 NM torque thanks to adapted camshafts and valves and a lighter carbon fibre airbox.
In the end, 1,383 cars were produced offered in either Silver Grey or Black Sapphire. The CSL to this day remains one of the most iconic BMW’s to be created in recent years and maintains a huge cult following from both enthusiasts and collectors a like.
SPECIFICATION
Colour: Silver Grey
Interior: Black Alcantara/Leather
Year: 2004
Mileage: 40,500
Engine: 3.2L Straight-Six
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Body Style: Coupe
Fuel: Petrol
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INVESTMENT THESIS
First registered in December 2004, this stunning Silver Grey BMW E46 M3 CSL is 1 of only 422 UK supplied cars. Having covered 40,500 miles from new with full and comprehensive service history predominantly with BMW, in 2020 the car visited Darragh Doyle and the team at Everything M3s where it received not only a manual gearbox conversion along with the 4.1 differential but also a host of other light restoration works including Subframe/RACP reinforcement. The final bill came to just over £11,000.
Having covered just over 500 miles since then, the end result is frankly game changing! Not only is the 6 speed manual a welcomed arrival over the slightly antiquated SMG automated unit fitted to the CSL from new, but the revised 4.1 differential ratio completely transforms the acceleration profile of the car. With 19 cars now having benefitted from the conversion, it is clear to see the popularity of the manual car. Finally, from a preservation standpoint, the conversion is completely reversible back to the original SMG format with all original parts still with the car.
The car has just returned to us from BMW after an Inspection 2 service and is ready for its new owner to enjoy. If you would like to see the car in action, please head over to Harry’s Garage on YouTube where you can watch renowned automotive journalist Harry Metcalfe highlighting the benefits of the manual gearbox and differential in this particular car.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
BMW Business Audio System
Sports Seats
Rear Parking Sensors
Xenon Headlights
Air Conditioning
Everything M3s Manual Conversion
Everything M3s 4.1 Differential
TECHNICAL FEATURES
PERFORMANCE
Engine Size: 3246 cc
Top Speed: 155 mph
0-62mph: 4.9 sec
Power: 355 bhp
DIMENSIONS
Height: 1360 mm
Length: 4490 mm
Width: 1780 mm
EMISSIONS & MPG
CO2: 287 g/km
Combined: 24 mpg