Bmw M3 CSL

M3 CSL (E46)
BMW made a limited run (less than 1,400 units) of the M3 CSL (E46) machines between June and December of 2003. The CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) received an aggressive weight reduction campaign, more power (up to 360 hp), and sharper handling characteristics than the standard BMW M3, courtesy of semi-slick racing tires. From the exterior, the CSL is distinguished from its standard sibling with a different wheel design, larger integrated rear spoiler and a large air intake hole on the left side of the front bumper. Weight loss was achieved through use of a carbon-fiber roof, carbon-fiber trunk lid, lighter exhaust manifold, thinner rear glass, carbon fiber interior door panels and console, lightweight racing seats, and the removal of side air bags. Several other features available in a regular BMW M3 as standard such as air conditioning and radio were also deleted, although these options could be added at the request of the owner. SMG II sequential manual gearbox was made standard. Owing to the small production run and the complications of clearing DOT and [United States Environmental Protection AgencyEPA]] standards for the North American market, BMW never exported the CSL to the United States, although some parts from it were later made available on the regular BMW M3 as part of an optional Competition Package.
While the CSL was comparable in performance to theFerrari's 360 at half the price, this version of the BMW M3 is often criticized as being too racing-oriented and significantly pricier than the standard model. Focusing on weight loss, the CSL became less of the "everyday car" that the BMW M3 is known for. Another criticism was the unavailability of a manual gearbox.
credit by en.wikipedia.org