BMW M presents CSL models that were almost in the running for the 50th anniversary.
BMW M, with a 50-year history, has been a high-performance division within the German automaker. The introduction of M cars is the latest example of this.
BMW M has had a long history of CSL models, but only three CSL models made it to the final cut. These were the 3.0 CSL, which was released in 1973, the E46 M3 CSL 2003, and the newly unveiled M4 CSL.
The acronym, which stands for Competition, Sport, and Lightweight, has become synonymous to road-legal, track-capable, hardcore M cars. Collectors and enthusiasts alike have found them more attractive.
Did you know that BMW also has four CSL prototypes? BMW M takes you on a tour through a secret garage, where some of these cars are not visible to the public.
BMW M3 CSL E46 v8
The E46 M3 CSL prototype V8 engine was not to be confused with the BMW M3 GTR. It was a one-off, but it served a purpose. It was equipped with a 430-horsepower (321 kilowatts) 4.0-liter S65VB40 motor and was designed by BMW to be a pre-trial vehicle for the V8 that would later be used in other BMWs. The M3 CSL V8’s insights were incorporated into the M family engines, including the S85 (V10) or S65 (V8).
BMW M5 CSL BMW V10
The BMW M5 CSL E60 V10 was a prototype for a high-revving, 5.5-liter V10 with 630 horsepower (470 kW), and a peak speed of 8,750 rpm. BMW designed a lighter M5CSL to match the power generated. It featured a carbon roof and Recaro seats. The car also had no rear seats. This resulted in a weight reduction of 331 pounds (150 kg).
The M5 CSL took 7 minutes 50 seconds to lap the Nurburgring, thanks to more tuning including suspension and cooling. The BMW M5CSL was a special to celebrate BMW M’s 25th Anniversary.
BMW M6 CSL BMW E63 V10
The E63 M6 CSL V10 was a different model from the M3 CSL V8 or M5 CSL prototypes. It became a testing bed for BMW’s active aerodynamics. The M6 CSLV10 was lighter and featured a retractable spoiler at the front. This helped to improve the coupe’s performance.
The BMW M6 CSL featured double-strut M exterior reflectors, which are found on the most sporty BMW models.
BMW M2 CSL F87
The 450-hp (336 kW) M2 CS was the most powerful M2, but did you also know that BMW M also worked on an M2 CLSL? The M2 CSL was designed to enhance the performance of M2 Competition. It had 406 pound-feet (550 Nm) of torque and had bucket seats, rollover bars, CFRP central console, carbon rear wings, and carbon-ceramic brakes.
The M2 CS was presented internally. However, the M2 CS was given the green light with more practical features. The M2 CSL was a one-off.