2003 BMW (E46) M3 CSL

This 2003 BMW M3 CSL is an original and unmodified example of an acclaimed performance car, presented in strong mechanical and cosmetic condition. Under the bonnet sits a 3.2-litre straight-six engine producing 350bhp, which drives the rear wheels via the six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) paddle shift transmission. The odometer currently indicates 70,946 miles from new.

This M3 CSL was first registered in December 2003, and has seven previous keepers on the log book. It has been with its current keeper for four-and-a-half years, with the vendor noting it has been driven sparingly during their ownership, sitting in a collection that includes other iconic BMWs.

The muscular bodywork of this M3 presents with no evidence of any prior damage, having smooth panels and even shut lines. There are no scuffs, scratches or patches of corrosion, and the only blemishes noted by the vendor are a few stone chips around the front bumper and bonnet. The distinct front grilles, wing vents, headlight lenses and M3 badging all appear in excellent condition, while the car rides on a set of 19-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels, which are pristine on all four corners.

Moving inside, the condition of the black Amaretta suede upholstery is described as excellent, with minimal wear even to high-risk areas like the seat bolsters. The vendor has indicated some light scuffs on the hard backs of the front seats, though the rear seats themselves are in excellent condition. The CSL-badged sills, carbon-fibre centre console trim and M3 CSL plaque remain in very good order, as does the three-spoke suede-trimmed steering wheel and gear selector. All of the car’s electrics are reported to work as they should, and there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

The last service was undertaken in October 2020 at 70,918 miles, where technicians at BMW specialist Graham Martin Automotive changed the engine oil and filter, before giving the car a general check over. Prior to this, in July 2018 at 70,810 miles, a new battery, an exhaust clamp and a headlight adjustment sensor were installed, as well as fresh engine oil and a new oil filter.The most recent MOT test was on 7 October 2020 at 70,918 miles, which resulted in a pass with two advisories to monitor worn tyres all round and some corrosion on the offside rear brake pipe. The wheels are wrapped with Michelin tyres all round, which are evidently due for replacement.

Accompanying the vehicle is the full factory book pack, including the owner’s manual and service book, as well as a folder of history dating back to 2009.

This BMW M3 CSL is a superb limited-edition performance hero, presented in excellent cosmetic condition and benefitting from careful storage and regular maintenance. Having spent much of the last four years in a notable collection and with a recent specialist service under its belt, this CSL is now ready to stretch its legs out on the open road again, and show its next owner why this modern classic is so sought after.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.