Description
There are M3 CSLs and there is this particular car. With arguably perfect mileage – ideal for a static collector, or an enthusiast who wishes to drive occasionally without affecting the value – and the perfect provenance, this very special car is something of a unicorn – having had one gentleman owner from new until 2024, and a second owner for one road trip between then and now. The distinction here is made because this CSL was spec’ed new and has spent its life being cared for and treasured by a more mature owner who did not go in for racing or over-enthusiastic driving. An idea of the tastes and tendencies of Bob, the first owner – who inadvertently became something of a sensation when we originally posted the car on social media last year – can be gathered by his decision to order the car with the diamond cut 19” wheels from the standard E46 M3. One can imagine that this decision would not be made by your average ‘boy racer’! The (genuine) CSL wheels were sourced by us and fitted last year. With service history and provenance to die for – including the original bill of sale – and in fantastic condition both mechanically and physically, this really is the holy grail of M3 CSLs.
The M3 CSL can quite reasonably claim to be possibly the greatest M road car ever made. The standard E46 M3 was already a masterpiece of engineering, with near perfect weight distribution, the most powerful normally aspirated engine ‘per cc’ ever made (and winner of multiple awards) and handling to flatter even the most frivolous of drivers. The CSL just crowned it all off. With an amazing 10% weight saving – by the use of carbon fibre panels (roof, valences, engine components, bumpers and interior) – and a centre of gravity downshift – as well as an increase in horse power from 343 to 365, the CSL wrote the book on how to squeeze every drop of goodness from an already supremely accomplished sports coupe. With hindsight, the CSL is easily the high point of BMW Motorsport, before the bean-counters and EU joy vampires finally got their way. With only 422 RHD CSLs produced for the UK market – many of which had a pretty energetic first few years – the number of truly collector quality examples available is probably only now in double figures, and we’ve seen most of them.
We’ve known this car and Bob, the first owner, for quite a while now. The more recent keeper is a very good and trusted friend of ours who owned an M3 CSL back in the day, and wanted one more road trip in one for nostalgia’s sake. Prior to delivery for the road trip, we were instructed to strip and refresh the whole underside of the car, remove any trace of rust (there were a few surface spots), apply preventative treatment and refit – at considerable expense – making sure the car is in absolutely top condition throughout – mechanically, bodywork, underside, interior and engine bay. The boot floor has been inspected – all clear. Our workshop team were mighty impressed when we first saw the car, and having re inspected the car just recently, we’re still blown away by how authentic and beautifully cared for this particular car is. As you’d expect, the car will be presented to its lucky new owner in our usual superb condition. We think this may be the most desirable M3 CSL we’ve seen for a decade or more. We’re pretty sure you won’t find a better one.
For more information on this fabulous machine, or to book a visit, please contact our showroom team.
