BMWs 50 Years of ‘M’ celebration closes with the epic limited 3.0 CSL
BMW has been celebrating the 50th year of the legendary ‘M’ tuning division. A slew of special edition and limited run models have been showcased by the brand for the celebratory year, however, this latest one seems to be the icing on the cake.
BMW 3.0 CSL Limited-edition
The german automaker wants to close out the year-long celebration with a bang by introducing the limited-run modern reimagination of the BMW 3.0 CSL. Its original version was first conceived and sold during the 1970s as a stripped-out and hardcore road-going version of a race car, with the new version wanting to continue the ethos for a few lucky individuals.
It will be limited to just 50 units worldwide, and it will apply all of the ‘M’ divisions lightweight race-bred knowledge. It is based on the current M4 but the 3.0 CSL has been extensively reworked with a more aggressive aero package which is paired with the wider tracks and arches.
The 3.0 CSL has an upright double kidney grille with a lattice-shaped insert. Forged alloy wheels with filigree spokes, a gold finish, and a center lock measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the back. Of course, the iconic “Batmobile” rear spoiler continues here, but it’s been modernized to generate additional downforce, especially when taken together with the roof-mounted spoiler.
Under the hood of the 3.0 CSL is something short of iconic, it is set to be the most powerful inline-6 engine ever bolted onto a road-legal M car. It has 560 HP and 550 Nm of torque, and joy of joys it’s mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that sends the power (rightfully) to the rear wheels. Even if it’s supposed to be hardcore, the transmission comes with a shift assistant which uses a connection speed control to ensure slip-free clutch engagement after downshifting when braking for corners.
Besides the apparent addition of power, the 3.0 CSL also needs to handle which is why BMW put in adaptive suspension, a revised steering setup, and carbon ceramic disc brakes with 6-piston front calipers.
Its weight loss program features the extensive use of carbon fiber on virtually all bodywork sections which apparently include the door panels. It also has a titanium silencer and extensively cuts down on sound insulation. The rear seats are gone in their place goes helmet holders, while the front seats are now constructed of carbon fiber as well.
Each vehicle will take 10 days to produce and the total unit count will be produced in three months. No price has been revealed by BMW just yet, but we can safely assume that it will cost (a very) pretty penny.
