2003 BMW M3 CSL
The M3 CSL has called it upon itself to take up the heritage and legendary success of BMW’s famous lightweight coupes, which was able to gain fame in touring car racing back in the ’70s, the engineers of BMW M once again created a purist, thoroughbred sports car that was designed and built to the highest standard of excellence.
The formula BMW M’s specialists have followed in creating this dynamic driving machine is “intelligent” lightweight technology: This means consistent reduction of weight by using the most appropriate materials at the right point. Carbon-fiber -reinforced plastic, one of the most important materials in Formula 1, for example, not only reduces the overall weight of the car, but also allows even higher speeds in bends particularly through the use of this lightweight material at the extreme ends of the car.
Focusing on their quest to reduce weight, the engineers at BMW M took a close look at virtually every component of the M3, in each case using the most suitable materials in order to save weight. As a result, the M3 CSL even comes with glass-fiber plastics otherwise used for aerospace applications such as endless-glass-fibre thermoplastics serving as the structural material for the through-loading system and on the rear bumper supports.
The significant increase in power and performance is however not only the result of intelligent lightweight engineering. Rather, the straight-six power unit already renowned for its high engine speeds has been enhanced to an even higher standard, BMW M’s engineers boosting maximum output to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm from 3.2 liters capacity, that is a sensational output- per-liter figure of 111 bhp. Maximum torque, in turn, is 273 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm.
Inside, the M3 CSL aga in follows the concept of supreme function and minimum weight wherever it makes sense. Reflecting the purist standard of motorsport, the car does without electric seat heating or a navigation system, and both the radio and air conditioning are only available as an option. A special feature on the clear-cut dashboard is the CFP covers on top, the centre console, door and side linings also being made of the same material.
The glass-fiber -plastic bucket seats finished in a combination of Amaretta and fabric not only give the driver and front passenger optimum side support, but also tilt forwards conveniently to provide easy access to the two individually contoured seats at the rear. For reasons of weight, seat adjustment for length and height is manual.