M3 to M3 CSL

[airconjohn]

Hi,
Having owned an E46 M3 coupe for the last 3 years, I am considering the move to a CSL and would like to hear from anyone who has gone from an M3 to a CSL. Was it a good move?

[david]

100% good move Csl .... it's an other car...

[M5 Powered]

Agree,

Even within the M/// range it is a HUGE departure.

It is really a track / race car that happens to have a BMW badge on it.

[Bounce]

Originally Posted by airconjohn

Hi,
Having owned an E46 M3 coupe for the last 3 years, I am considering the move to a CSL and would like to hear from anyone who has gone from an M3 to a CSL. Was it a good move?

I made the same move before christmas,having owned an smg coupe for 4 years.The CSL is worlds apart,its like driving a different car,much more focused,it even bangs through the smg ratios quicker.I dont think its a family car like the standard m3,so we got my Mrs a run about for every day use.Its a hell of a car,and im over the the moon with it.Its not got all the toys of a well specd m3,but the noise and the drive more than make up for this.Also they dont lose money like a stock m3.You really need to go and drive one,and that will make your mind up.

[Dan]

Originally Posted by BOUNCE

I made the same move before christmas,having owned an smg coupe for 4 years.The CSL is worlds apart,its like driving a different car,much more focused,it even bangs through the smg ratios quicker.I dont think its a family car like the standard m3,so we got my Mrs a run about for every day use.Its a hell of a car,and im over the the moon with it.Its not got all the toys of a well specd m3,but the noise and the drive more than make up for this.Also they dont lose money like a stock m3.You really need to go and drive one,and that will make your mind up.

I was in the same position myself and am so glad I made the jump to a CSL as without I really was missing out...

I'd had my Manual M3 Coupe for around a year and never felt settled with it if you know what I mean, but touch wood, with the CSL it's on another level and well worth the extra expense!

Do it, and sooner the better, you won't regret it!

[breeze]

As above - the CSL is a massive leap forward if you are anything like a serious driver. I drove my friend's E46 M3 and was genuinely surprised at how soft the whole car felt. Great cars certainly but very different to a CSL.

Running costs are virtually identical and depreciation probably lower if you look after it...

[sailorbaz]

I don't know if you're the same guy from PH, but I commented on your post over there and you'll get loads more here too.

Welcome to the Board mate.

[toplad]

Originally Posted by airconjohn

Hi,
Having owned an E46 M3 coupe for the last 3 years, I am considering the move to a CSL and would like to hear from anyone who has gone from an M3 to a CSL. Was it a good move?

Despite the overwhelming ‘yes’ response from owners, it's difficult to say without more info

Depends on what sort of mileage you're doing in the car. The CSL rides harsher and has no toys. It's a stripped out car more or less, the seats are certainly less comfortable in the CSL than the regular M3

Your M3 is more refined, comfortable and a lot better at covering the miles

Is it a Weekend car your after or a daily driver?

You might be better with a M3 CS day to day

[DazBlackCSL]

No question do it, had my M3 for three years, before it got stripped into my Race Car for the CSL cup, used it everyday ...

CSL is still my everyday car, Sun / Rain and Snow ... 7 days a week.. with KW clubsports / AP's and RS29 and SS full system...

DON'T listen to anyone who says it's a bit harsh to use everyday ...

Yes the M3 std is more lukewarm and like a sofa in comparison .. but the CSL is still a car you can drive everyday if need be, room in the boot, and four seats ... its not a caterham !

[shimmy]

i can only compare with E39 M5 really and i would say that if it is for you and family only occassionally go for the CSL no doubt BUT if it is a regular family car the M3 mans you havent got to make excuses all the time for the ride and rattles and noise!