BMW M3 CSL (2003)

BMW M3 CSL

In 2003 BMW introduced the series version of the Concept Car which had already hit the headlines at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show - the BMW M3 CSL, an abbreviation standing for "Coupé, Sports, Lightweight".

Indeed, this BMW tradition goes all the way back to the '30s of the former century, when the legendary 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupé first saw the light of day. This time, however, BMW's engineers interpreted the old theme in a new way, focusing not on the radical reduction of weight simply by removing individual components, but rather on intelligent lightweight engineering, that is the reduction of weight by using the best and most appropriate materials at the right point. Accordingly, BMW's experts succeeded in reducing the weight of the BMW M3 by more than 110 kilos or 243 lb, with the CSL version weighing in at just 1,385 kg or 3,054 lb.

The power unit was also upgraded, now developing maximum output in this specific model of 265 kW or 360 hp. The result was a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.85 kg per horsepower, a truly sensational figure making the BMW M3 CSL even more agile and dynamic than the "regular" BMW M3. As a result, the BMW M3 CSL accelerates to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in an equally astounding 16.8 seconds. Top speed, in turn, is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

The - lucky - driver of the BMW M3 CSL benefits from further technical assistance and enhancement systems featured as standard on this unique car: BMW's Sequential M Gearbox complete with Drivelogic and the M Track Mode. This special transmission ensures a very fast gearshift within just 0.08 seconds, like in a Formula 1 racing car, by means of paddles on the steering wheel. And like on the BMW M3 equipped with SMG, Launch Control integrated in the system enables the BMW M3 CSL to accelerate from a standstill all the way to top speed, without the driver having to shift gears or watch out for engine speed limits.

Introducing the M Track Mode, BMW M GmbH added a special DSC mode carried over from motorsport as yet another highlight in the BMW M3 CSL: Now, optical indicators in the dashboard enable the driver on the race track to make maximum use of the car's longitudinal and lateral acceleration within its physical limits, with DSC intervening only when the driver reaches the absolute extreme.

- - 2015
    The new BMW M6 Coupe and new BMW M6 Gran Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 9.9 l/100 km [28.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 231 g/km) and new BMW M6...
    BMW M6 Coupe
  - 2015
    The progressive nature of the BMW 6-Series is also reflected in its diverse range of standard and optional driver assistance systems and mobility services...
    BMW 6-Series Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2013
    Like its predecessor, the roof of the new BMW M6 Coupe is made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic as standard. The dark colouring of the roof gives the...
    BMW M6 Coupe
  - 2012
    Its unmistakable design language gives the new BMW 6-Series Coupe an aura of athletic elegance. The sweeping bonnet, short front overhang and set-back...
    BMW 6-Series Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2008
    Featuring highly attractive modifications to their characteristic design, an interior further refined in many details and boasting new color highlights, as...
    BMW 635d Coupe
- - 2005
    With the launch of the BMW M6, BMW M GmbH is proud to present the most dynamic and sporting rendition of the BMW 6-Series Coupe. This makes BMW's large...
    BMW M6
  - 2004
    Although the BMW 6-Series designation had been last applied to a BMW in 1989, BMW has a long tradition of sport coupes and convertibles of the highest...
    BMW 645Ci
  2 ⇵
- - 1978
    Engine: inline-6, 3453 cc Power: 215 hp (160 kW) at 5200 rpm Torque: 304 Nm (224 ft·lb) at 4000 rpm Top speed: 222 km/h (138 mph) Length: 4755 mm...
    BMW 635CSi
  - 1976
    Engine: inline-6, 2985 cc Power: 182 hp (136 kW) at 5800 rpm Torque: 255 Nm (188 ft·lb) at 3500 rpm Top speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) Length: 4755 mm...
    BMW 630CS
  2 ⇵
- - 1973
    This final version of the 3.0 CSL was homologated in July 1973 along with an aerodynamic package including a large air dam, short fins running along the front fenders...
    BMW 3.0 CSL
  - 1972
    Initially using the same engine as the 3.0 CS, the 3.0 CSL was given a very small increase in displacement to 3,003 cc (183.3 cu in) by increasing the engine bore...
    BMW 3.0 CSL
  2 ⇵
- - 2006
    The BMW Z4 M Coupe encloses its two seats and a larger cargo area in a graceful fastback body that retains the unique BMW Z4 esthetic character and the...
    BMW Z4 M Coupe
  - 2006
    The new car was thrilling to behold from the very first moment - and now this thrilling encounter is confirmed in full by the actual driving experience:
    BMW Z4 Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 1999
    The BMW M Coupe, nicknamed the "Shoe", "Clown Shoe", "Boot", "Shooting Brake" or "Bread Van" by...
    BMW M Coupe
- - 2012
    BMW announced several modifications to the 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe that accentuate efficiency and premium quality. The unmistakable profile of the BMW...
    BMW 1-Series Coupe
- - 2008
    The powerful BMW 135i Coupe features BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft...
    BMW 135i Coupe
  - 2011
    With anticipation of enthusiasts around the world at fever pitch, BMW M GmbH unveiled the newest member of its intimate product family. For the first time,...
    BMW 1-Series M Coupe
  - 2008
    BMW will introduce a modern and authentic performance coupe that draws inspiration from its iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago. The next BMW legend,...
    BMW 1-Series Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2025
    BMW i4 M50 xDrive and BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe underline their sporty character with M-specific design features. Both models now feature a BMW kidney grille...
    BMW i4 M50 xDrive
  - 2025
    The engine is paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission to propel the BMW M440i Gran Coupe from 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.7 seconds, or an estimated 4.3 seconds...
    BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe
  - 2025
    Slim headlights and a vertically arranged BMW kidney grille dropping deeply towards the road define the front-end styling of the BMW i4 and BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe.
    BMW i4
  3 ⇵
- - 2022
    Specific design features give the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe eye-catching looks which clearly reference its overtly sporting character. The front apron has the signature...
    BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe
  - 2022
    The standalone character of the new BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe is rounded off by the modern functionality of its overall concept. Measuring 4,783 millimetres...
    BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe
  - 2022
    BMW i4 combines the hallmark sporting aesthetic of the brand's coupes with the comfort of a four-door car and a practical appeal offered by the large tailgate.
    BMW i4
  3 ⇵
- - 2018
    The new BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe was BMW's second four-door coupe after the 6-Series Gran Coupe. The car's dynamic-looking, elongated styling succeeds in...
    BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe
- - 2015
    BMW proudly presents the new BMW 4-Series Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 8.1-4.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emission: 189-119 g/km), the first...
    BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe
- - 2025
    The rear apron of the new BMW M2 features a powerfully sculpted race-car-style diffuser. The exhaust system feeds into two pairs of exhaust tailpipes...
    BMW M2
  - 2026
    BMW M2 CS is based on the second generation of the BMW M2 and significantly improves what is already an extraordinary level of performance.
    BMW M2 CS
  2 ⇵
- - 2023
    By sending its power to the rear wheels, the new BMW M2 is embracing the traditional recipe for converting engine output into dynamic performance. When pushing hard...
    BMW M2
  - 2022
    Specific design features give the six-cylinder BMW M240i xDrive Coupe a visually expressive presence which clearly highlights its performance attributes.
    BMW M240i xDrive Coupe
  - 2022
    Three-dimensional surfaces, triangular forms and diagonal lines bring rare visual power to the front end of the new BMW 2-Series Coupe. The low-reaching front apron...
    BMW 2-Series Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2019
    In the BMW M2 Competition, the electronics exercise even more delicate control, providing improved traction in wet and slippery conditions, and ensuring...
    BMW M2 Competition
  - 2020
    BMW M2 CS delivers instant visual confirmation of its sporting credentials, its stylistic modifications clearly distinguishing it from the BMW M2 Competition.
    BMW M2 CS
  - 2018
    The three-litre straight-six under the bonnet of the new BMW M2 deploys cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology to generate 272 kW (370 hp) at 6,500 rpm...
    BMW M2 Coupe
  - 2018
    It all adds up to make the BMW M240i Coupe a thoroughbred athlete with exceptional performance capabilities: with the six-speed manual gearshift...
    BMW M240i Coupe
  - 2018
    It is a recipe further enhanced by the everyday practicality of the 4,432-millimetre-long BMW 2-Series Coupe, which has a boot capacity of 390 litres.
    BMW 2-Series Coupe
  5 ⇵
- - 2016
    A single glance is all it takes to pick the new BMW M2 Coupe out as a member of the BMW M family, with its styling also keen to advertise its dynamic attributes.
    BMW M2 Coupe
  - 2014
    The six-cylinder in-line engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology generates maximum output of 240 kW/326 hp and accelerates the BMW M235i Coupe...
    BMW M235i Coupe
  - 2014
    BMW model family celebrates the premiere of another new model series - BMW 2-Series Coupe raises the bar in the premium compact segment in terms of dynamic...
    BMW 2-Series Coupe
  3 ⇵
SHOW MORE

- 2004
  The E46 was considered the performance benchmark of its class and experienced success in many markets. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was...
  BMW 330Cd Coupe
- 2004
  In 1995, the general exterior design of the E46 by Erik Goplen was approved and as a result DesignworksUSA was contracted by BMW to work alongside BMW...
  BMW 325Ci Coupe
- 2004
  The BMW E90 replaced the E46 sedans in late 2004, however the BMW E46 coupe and convertible body styles remained in production until 2007.
  BMW 330Ci Coupe
- 2005
  Entering the year 2005, BMW introduced a very special feature for the M3: the Competition Package. At a price of Euro 5,300, the really discerning costumer...
  BMW M3 Competition

- - 2011
    With the BMW M3 GTS, BMW M GmbH now offers a truly outstanding performer based on the BMW M3 Coupé also ideal for Clubsport events - exactly the...
    BMW M3 GTS
  - 2010
    As of spring 2010, the high-performance model BMW M3 consistently combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel...
    BMW M3
  - 2011
    BMW has announced substantial enhancements to the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible , including outstanding style updates for 328i and 335i models...
    BMW 3-Series Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2008
    Entering each new season in motorsport, we feel new and fresh ambition, query formally proven recipes for success, and focus on new records and outstanding...
    BMW M3 Coupe
  - 2007
    Introducing the latest expression of individual style - the all-new BMW 3 Series Coupe. With totally new looks, the newest BMW Coupe once again sets the...
    BMW 335i Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2003
    In 2003 BMW introduced the series version of the Concept Car which had already hit the headlines at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show - the BMW M3 CSL, an...
    BMW M3 CSL
  - 2004
    The E46 was considered the performance benchmark of its class and experienced success in many markets. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was...
    BMW 330Cd Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2001
    The third generation of the BMW M3, this time based on the E46 model series coupé, made its debut in the year 2000. And once again, the third...
    BMW M3
  - 1999
    Moreover, fourth-generation trendsetters include the BMW 3-Series Coupe and the 3-Series Convertible, which are now available with a diesel engine...
    BMW 328Ci Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 1992
    The BMW M3 was exactly 31 millimetres lower than a BMW 3 Series Coupe. The values for lateral acceleration also demonstrated how well all the chassis components...
    BMW M3 Coupe
  - 1996
    Sales figures for 3 Series coupes, sedans, and convertibles were at all time highs in North America and Europe. Against other competititors, the E36 would...
    BMW 3 Series Coupe
  2 ⇵

- 2003
  BMW 325ti Compact
- 2002
  The E46 automobile platform is the fourth generation of BMW's highly successful 3 Series entry-level luxury car / compact executive car. It was introduced...
  BMW 3-Series
- 2002
  The BMW E46 is a compact executive car which was produced by BMW from 1998 to 2007. It was introduced in May 1998 in the sedan body style. In 1999, a...
  BMW 3-Series Touring
- 2004
  An emphasis was put on reducing unsprung weight and increasing structural rigidity rather than increasing power output: the highest displacement model...
  BMW 320Cd Convertible

Coupes
- - 2008
    The Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series is making its global debut at the New York International Auto Show, open to the public April 6-15, 2007 at the...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
  - 2006
    In the CLK 63 AMG Coupé and Cabriolet models too, which are likewise making their world debut in Geneva, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine creates an...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG
  - 2005
    Performance is electronically limited to 135mph in the CLK350 and CLK500 models, and to 155mph in the CLK55 model. The electronic limitation is felt as...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK350
  3 ⇵
- - 2004
    A special version of the CLK is the CLK DTM AMG sports car, which looks similar to the full race car for the German Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters racing...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG
- - 1998
    The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a series of mid-size luxury coupés and convertibles produced by German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz in two...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe
  - 1999
    Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was powered by a 6.8 liter V12 engine developing 720 bhp and 572 lb/ft of torque. It had a price tag of $1,573,000 and only 25 were...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
  2 ⇵
- - 2003
    The Maserati Spyder, which received its European launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show, was also unveiled at the Detroit Show. The new Maserati Coupé
    Maserati Coupe
- - 2020
    Without the driver, the Audi RS5 Coupe weighs just 1,707 kg (3,763.3 lb); the Audi RS5 Sportback weighs 1,742 kg (3,840.5 lb). In particular, this is because of...
    Audi RS5 Coupe
  - 2020
    An eight-speed tiptronic and permanent quattro all-wheel drive transfer the power in the S5 Sportback and S5 Coupe. A taut S sport suspension is standard...
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI
  - 2020
    The exterior design is based on the S line and features additional, eye-catching black elements such as a roof dome in brilliant black with the A5 Coupe.
    Audi A5 Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2018
    The new Audi RS5 Coupe demonstrates its sporty character as a gran turismo at first glance. The designers drew inspiration for the car from the...
    Audi RS5 Coupe
  - 2017
    The new Audi S5 Coupe combines dramatic design with the performance of a sports car. Its newly developed, turbocharged V6 engine produces 260 kW (354 hp)...
    Audi S5 Coupe
  - 2019
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI and S5 Sportback TDI make driving even more relaxed and comfortable with a wide range of driver assistance systems. Some of the solutions are...
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI
  - 2017
    The new Audi A5 Coupe sports a fresh, modern and honed look. It is nevertheless true to its DNA with the sporty and elegant character being passed down...
    Audi A5 Coupe
  4 ⇵
- - 2012
    The Audi RS5 Coupé has gained some new design accents for an even sharper shape. The elegant two-door model impresses with commanding performance.
    Audi RS5
  - 2012
    Advanced technologies are being added to the Sportback, Coupe, Cabriolet and Audi S5 models in the areas of the engine, quattro drive and infotainment for...
    Audi S5
  - 2012
    In the Audi A5 Coupe, the high-end four-cylinder unit consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (41.27 US mpg). This best-in-class value...
    Audi A5 Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2011
    Unbridled power lurking in a classically elegant coupé: the Audi RS5 will debut at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show. The high-revving 4.2-liter V8 with its...
    Audi RS5
  - 2008
    The Audi S5 is a unique competitor among high-performance coupés, thanks to its combination of V8 FSI technology and quattro permanent four-wheel...
    Audi S5
  - 2008
    Audi A5 successfully unites the acclaimed Audi design language and thrilling dynamic driving performance, and combines generous refinement with the brand's...
    Audi A5
  3 ⇵
- - 2019
    The optional AMG Aerodynamics package for the C63 Coupe provides an even sportier look: the more expressive front splitter, spoiler lip with integral...
    Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG Coupe
  - 2019
    The exterior of the C43 4MATIC Coupe and Cabriolet is considerably more expressive, even more strongly identifying the new models as members of the family.
    Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG Coupe
  - 2019
    Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes as standard with the Audio 20 multimedia system featuring two USB ports, an SD card reader, Bluetooth connection and media interface.
    Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2017
    Mercedes-AMG is setting a further landmark in the brand history: the new C63 Coupé is the next step on the way to yet more technical and visual...
    Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe
  - 2017
    Mercedes-AMG has added another sporty model to its C-Class family: the new C43 4Matic Coupé. For the highly dynamic driving experience that is the...
    Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG 4Matic Coupe
  - 2017
    Compared with the saloon model, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe has a completely newly designed rear end that carries the genes of the S-Class Coupe.
    Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2012
    Spectacular design, technology transfer from the world of motorsport and driving dynamics at the highest level; the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé
    Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series
  - 2012
    In the shape of the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG coupé, Mercedes-AMG is presenting an autonomous, high-performance car that appeals to all the senses.
    Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe
  - 2014
    The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG models are becoming even more dynamic: the AMG high-performance cars are being fitted with an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with...
    Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507
  - 2012
    The expressive Mercedes C-Class Coupé sees Mercedes-Benz, now in its 125th year of corporate history, entering a new market segment and for the...
    Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
  4 ⇵
- - 2009
    Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a stand-alone model series in the guise of the new Mercedes CLC, the compelling entry-level model in the Mercedes-Benz...
    Mercedes-Benz CLC
- - 2004
    Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile,...
    Mercedes-Benz C320 Sport Coupe
- - 2020
    2020 Lexus RC F coupe gets a wide range of changes designed to boost its performance and freshen its overall look. One of the first targets for the engineers...
    Lexus RC F
  - 2019
    The two-door Lexus RC coupe presents an impressive low profile and wide stance, with its compact cabin contrasting with the powerfully flared wings and...
    Lexus RC
  2 ⇵
- - 2015
    The aggressive new Lexus RC F coupe has been designed for optimum high speed stability to support the most powerful V8 performance car ever developed by...
    Lexus RC F
  - 2015
    The luxury-sport coupe category is about to get a lot hotter. The 2015 Lexus RC 350 arrives melding audacious design and high performance like no Lexus...
    Lexus RC
  2 ⇵
- - 2020
    Showcasing Polestar's technology spearhead role, the Polestar 1 is based upon Volvo's Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA) but approximately 50% is new...
    Polestar 1