The BMW M4 CSL is the first of many new BMWs that doesn’t look like a disaster.
As many a salivating fanboy knows, BMW M is turning 50 years old this year. They’ve already re-issued the classic BMW M emblem and created an M2 CS with classic livery safety car for Moto GP. Now, they’re releasing a special edition of the M4 called the M4 CSL that takes retro-inspired styling and blends it with the controversial face of the new 4 Series. The ‘CSL’ stands for “Competition, Sport, Lightweight” and is a throwback to the BMW 3.0 CSL from BMW M from the 1970s. BMW has an M3 CSL in 2003 as well. Only 1,000 of these BMW M4 CSL models will be made.
The BMW M4 CSL shares its specifications with the BMW M4 GT3 and is the fasted series production BMW around the Nordschleife. 0-100km/h is dispatched in just 3.7 seconds thanks to a high-revving 3.0L six cylinder with M TwinPower Turbo technology. Total output is 550hp and 650Nm of torque.
Another component of the M4 CSL’s performance is its light weight. It has a total kerb weight of 1,625kg and a power-to-weight ratio of 2.95kg per hp.
Weight was shaved by using M Carbon full bucket seats, the removal of rear seats and seat belts, making modifications to the luggage compartment, using M Carbon ceramic brakes, light alloy wheels, springs and struts.
What’s more, the roof, bonnet and boot are made of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) and a new titanium rear silencer cuts 4kg from the car’s exhaust system. Another 4kg was shaved off the kidney grille, rear lights, floor mats, and automatic climate control.
Aesthetically, the BMW M4 CSL is distinguished by an exclusive Frozen Brooklyn Grey metallic paint job with exposed carbon fibre surfaces and red accents as well as yellow Laserlight headlamps. The BMW M4 CSL can also be specified in Alpine White solid and Sapphire Black metallic.
