"Unofficial" mini M3 CSL FAQ
How many BMW E46 M3 CSL were sold worldwide?
A total of 1389 CSL's were sold worldwide. Of these 843 were left hand and 546 right hand models.

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When was the M3 CSL manufactured?
The M3 CSL was manufactured between June 2003 and December 2003.

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How many CSL's were allocated (sold) and to what country?
  • 422 - United Kingdom
  • 300 - Germany *
  • 90 - Switzerland *
  • 75 - Japan *
  • 65 - South Africa
  • 60 - Austria *
  • 60 - France *
  • 30 - Netherlands *
  • 23 - Australia
  • 10 - New Zealand
  • 8 - Sweden *
  • 6 - Hong Kong *
  • 3 - Norway
  • 2 - Belgium *
  • ...... ? *

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What did the CSL cost?
Here (German) is the price list from May 2003 with all the options.

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Did North America get any CSL's?
Unfortunately no CSL's were allocated to North America.

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What are the differences between the standard M3, M3 Competition Package (CP) and the M3 CSL?
The changes on the M3 CP are subtle but with some nice enhancements:
  • The wheels are 19-inch forged-alloy wheels derived from the CSL.
  • A slightly tweaked suspension (which is now standard on all late E46 M3's).
  • A modified steering ratio from 15.4:1 to 14.5:1 adopted from the M3 CSL.
  • The Dynamic Stability Control system includes a less intrusive M track mode, as on the M3 CSL.
  • The brakes, also adopted from the M3 CSL, include compound and cross-drilled rotors. The front rotors have also been enlarged from 12.8 to 13.6 inches.
  • The CP came with an alcantara steering wheel and alcantara handbrake to give better grip feel. The addition of the steering wheel-mounted button for the DSC M track mode however requires the deletion of the multi-function controls and cruise control.
  • Special Competition Package aluminum trim is included on the interior.
  • A new exterior color, Interlagos Blue, is offered only with this package.
  • The Competition Package is a $4000 option.

The CSL for the most part has very little in common with the standard M3. Below listed are some of the major changes:
  • I'm working on the text ...

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Is the CSL restricted to 250 kph (155 mph)?
You had the option of ordering the CSL restricted to 280 kph (175 mph) if you could show proof of holding a current National competition licence.

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When you use launch control, will the CSL automatically shift the gears for you at redline?
Yes, it shifts automatically at the redline until you reach 5th gear (6th gear then manually) or abort the launch control by backing off the throttle.

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With launch control, what is the maximum rpm?
Max engine speed for launch control is 3500rpm.

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Is it possible to get CSL parts for my car?
No, because BMW requires you to provide a VIN number and proof of ownership for any CSL part purchase - no CSL VIN / proof - no CSL part. Please don't ask me if I can get CSL parts for you. I won't.

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Does the CSL carry a tool kit in the trunk?
Nope, it only adds unnecessary weight to the car.

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More FAQ's to come ...
Please drop me a note if you have any specific CSL questions.

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Disclaimer:
  • This mini FAQ is CSL specific only. Please click here to read on general SMG questions.
  • I'm NO expert and do not have detailed nor technical knowledge on the subjects posted on this page.
  • The answers are solely based on experiences I have gathered with the intent of being shared with others.
  • This FAQ is intended for readers that are interested in the subject only.
  • I cannot be held responsible for completeness or accuracy!
  • * denotes "unconfirmed"