Non-CSL M3 - Who's owned one?

[DuncanR]

Best base to start with would be a M3 CS - basically a CSL missing a couple of things.

You get bonus CSL parts like the headers/extractor, brakes, steering wheel, steering rack, CSL DSC module just to name a few. It's a CSL parts bin special if you like without the CSL price tag.

However, chances are your mate will end up "CSL"ing the new track car anyway ... so maybe best just to buy a CSL in the first place (rather than longing for that sexy airbox afterwards) :smokin:

With regard to the steering rack, personally I would probably put up with an M3 one, easily available from the breakers. The CSL rack is about double the price (£950) of the std M3 one !! And regular tracking WILL see you needing one im sure.

[titan]

With regard to the steering rack, personally I would probably put up with an M3 one, easily available from the breakers. The CSL rack is about double the price (£950) of the std M3 one !! And regular tracking WILL see you needing one im sure.

How much of a job is it to swap out the rack on an M3?

Reason I ask is that "major" components like racks, clutches etc etc tends to be more about the labour costs than the item itself.

[_Nathan_]

Rack is about a grand, then I think you need to recode DSC too.

[NZ_M3]

I just wondered if any of you guys had owned a non-CSL and could voice a true opinion.

I had 2 x E46 M3s (2001 and 2003 models) and they are capable cars even compared to the CSL.

As Shimmy mentioned, if you start with a CSL or even CS you are already a step ahead in terms of ripping weight out of the car (and then there are the already mentioned bonus parts).

Given a budget however, I'd start with a standard M3 - throw enough money at it and it'll out perform a stock CSL easily.

With regard to the steering rack, personally I would probably put up with an M3 one, easily available from the breakers. The CSL rack is about double the price (£950) of the std M3 one !! And regular tracking WILL see you needing one im sure.

That's a good point.

Don't forget that the CSL has different front hubs for that wider front track - if you are swapping out the rack I'd swap the CSL front hubs also.

[Steviebee]

Yeah,

I had a CS two and a half years ago, but never tracked it.

There was an M3 on Knockhill a few weeks ago with suspension upgrade and cut slicks. I couldn't get close! It was my first time out in the CSL and tbh, I'm not a 'Track Master' - far from it , but I would certainly say you'll most def be quicker in a car that cost so much less!

Not digging std M3's! They are great cars, but the thought of binning my CSL always makes me tread on the side of caution!

Stevie