[Update: 27.11.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. Prepare yourselves, BMW E46 M3 fans, because the American tuner is currently awakening Vorsteiner one of its most iconic and popular tuning components back to life: The V-CSL Carbon Fiber Program is back at the start. After a long break it is back in the range, inspired by the legendary BMW E46 CSL. If you don't know, the CSL was (is) a particularly light and at the same time more powerful version of the M3, which was built in limited numbers in 2003 and 2004. The CSL (Coupé Sport Leichtbau) was and still is considered an absolute masterpiece of engineering and an icon in the BMW world.
Vorsteiner V-CSL carbon parts
20 years of Vorsteiner – and for the anniversary, the company has decided to produce 103 sets of the V-CSL carbon components to produce what corresponds to the performance per liter of displacement of the CSL M3. The four components of the V-CSL Carbon Fiber Program, which are intended to slightly improve the aerodynamics, performance and appearance of the E46 M3, are as follows, including their prices in euros (assuming an exchange rate of 1,10 USD to EUR):
- V-CSL Aero front bumper Carbon Fiber PP 1×1 glossy – around €2.268
- V-CSL E46 M3 Bumper Splitter Carbon Fiber PP 1×1 glossy (replacement) – around €632
- V-CSL Aero trunk lid Carbon Fiber PP 1×1 glossy – Coupé only – around €2.177
- V-CSL Aero rear diffuser Carbon Fiber PP 1×1 glossy – approximately €1.359
- V-CSL center console Carbon Fiber PP 1×1 glossy – around €905
All components are made from Vorsteiner's 1×1 carbon and of course from our own autoclave production directly at Vorsteiner in California. Vorsteiner states that this ensures that the components highest quality, durability and fit, with a glossy finish that perfectly highlights the carbon fiber. The kit offers the rare and exclusive chance to transform the “normal M3” into a CSL.
further differences between “Normalo-M3” & CSL
The BMW E46 M3 CSL, introduced in 2003, builds on the E46 M3 but brings with it significant differences and improvements aimed at making the vehicle lighter, more powerful and more track-ready. Below are some of the key differences between the standard BMW E46 M3 and the E46 M3 CSL:
Comparison of BMW E46 M3 vs. E46 M3 CSL | ||
---|---|---|
Category | E46 M3 | E46 M3 CSL |
Weight | - | Use of carbon fiber and aluminum; 110kg lighter than the standard M3. |
Motor | 3,2 liter S54 with 343 hp. | Optimized 3,2 liter S54 with 360 hp. |
Transmission | Manual or SMG | Only SMG II with special software for faster switching times. |
aerodynamics | - | Advanced aerodynamics, including large front spoiler and rear diffuser. |
inner space | Standard equipment. | Motorsport-oriented, with less sound insulation and lighter seating options. |
Suspension | Standard | Redesigned with special shock absorbers, springs etc. |
Rims and tires | Standard | Lightweight 19-inch mixed tires with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires. |
Bremsanlage | Standard | Improved to handle track stress. |
Exhaust System | Standard | Lighter and louder version. |
Air intake system | Standard | Carbon airbox system for more aggressive intake sound. |
Hatchback | Standard | Ducktail carbon fiber to save extra weight. |
other related posts
Vorsteiner presents BMW M2 "GT Aero Program" on the G87 coupe! |
Available again: Vorsteiner V-CSL carbon parts for the BMW M3 E46!
Photo credit/source: Vorsteiner / bmwblog.com
More pictures from November 27.11.2023th, XNUMX
- Anniversary logo installed
- Carbon body parts: Specially developed for the M3 E46, including hood, front splitter, rear diffuser, CSL spoiler
- Nickel badge M3 logo on front fender
- forged wheels with gold finish