The new BMW M4 CSL has all the right ingredients to be an incredible car to drive but it remains to be seen if it will live up to the greatness of the iconic E46-generation M3 CSL.
Manufactured between June and December 2003, there are just 1,383 M3 CSLs in existence. Later this month, one particularly pristine example will cross the auction block and be sold by RM Sotheby’s as part of its Motorworld Munchen sales event.
The M3 CSL in question is finished in silver Grey Metallic and was built on July 4, 2003. It was originally destined for Japan but eventually ended up in Europe. The car was specified with headlight washers, parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and Xenon headlights. Making the car all the more desirable is the fact that it has been driven just 4,698 km (2,919 miles) since new and has been well maintained by the current owner, forming part of his museum exhibition.
Watch: BMW M3 CSL E46 Gets The Six-Speed Manual It Should Have Always Had
Given the fact that the car has been on display in a museum in recent years, RM Sotheby’s notes that it should undergo a mechanical inspection before returning to the roads.
The car is in excellent condition and shows no signs of obvious damage. Not only does the paint appear absolutely perfect but the cabin also looks brand new, in particular the Alcantara that adorns the bucket seats and steering wheel.
As a reminder, the M3 CSL weighed 110 kg (242 lbs) less than the standard E46 M3 while the S54B32 six-cylinder engine was fitted with new camshafts and valves, increasing power to 355 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. The car also stands out from lesser 3-Series models thanks to a host of unique exterior features, including a revised front apron, rear diffuser, unique wheels, an aluminum hood, and a visible carbon fiber roof.
