Continuing the celebration of the 50th anniversary of its M division, BMW late November revealed it had revived its 3.0 CSL nameplate of 1970s, affixing it to a limited edition touted as the most exclusive special model in the company’s history.
Based on the M4 CSL, the vehicle is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine that produces 552 horsepower. That said, its peak torque has been reduced to 406 lb-ft. That’s because the 3.0 CSL has a six-speed manual gearbox and a shift assistant that uses connection speed control to ensure slip-free clutch engagement when downshifting.
Additionally, M carbon-ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers and 400-mm front discs are incorporated into the pacakage, as well as an adjustable M suspension. The stoppers are visible behind the 20-inch front and 21-inch rear gold-finished light alloy wheels with central locking.
Moreover, most of the body panels, including the fenders, are made of carbon-fibre. So, too, are the seats, door panels, dashboard, and centre console.
The exterior has a new oversized grille, an Alpine white body kit, and hand-applied M-coloured racing stripes. It also has a large rear wing in the back, helping it live up to the old car’s nickname, “Batmobile.” The number “50” is engraved on the sidewalls of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires, which were created especially for the 3.0 CSL.
The German automaker will make just 50 examples of the CSL, built mostly by hand; and each will be numbered accordingly.
