Deemed the holy grail among M enthusiasts the BMW M3 CSL ‘Coupe Sport Leichtbau’ meaning ‘Coupé Sport Lightweight’ is a limited edition version of the M3 with only 1,383 examples ever made worldwide. Its production was launched in 2004 under the leadership of Gerhard Richter, the visionary boss of BMW’s M division. It was designed to be the purest and most focused M3 of all-time.

Its 3.2 litre engine is a naturally aspirated, double overhead camshaft, straight 6 cylinder that develops 355bhp and a maximum torque of 370 Nm. It features a dry sump-type lubrication for improved oil cooling, meaning it works better for sustained cornering since it’s harder to starve the engine of oil. The car performs a very credible top speed of 165mph and a 0-62mph of 4.9 seconds.

Noted by BMW enthusiasts as the best model years of the E46 range of cars from BMW, the biggest difference between the regular E46 M3 and the CSL surprisingly goes unnoticed. The CSL cuts a whopping 110kg from the kerb weight of a regular M3 with thanks to its lightweight body panels, carbon fibre roof and front bumper plus rear diffuser, thinner rear glass, new lightweight seats, no sound insulation or side airbags to name a few.

Our car is 1 of only 422 UK supplied, right-hand drive examples ever produced. Finished in Black Sapphire Metallic with black Amaretta suede and Reflex cloth, E46 M3 CSLs that were delivered new from the factory in black Sapphire metallic are believed to be quite rare, the one’s that still exist today, over the years many examples were re-painted in Silver Grey to match the colour of the prototype.

Delivered new with the following factory optional features; 19” BMW forged LA wheel M, acoustic fasten seat belt reminder, rain sensor, Xenon headlights, headlight cleaning system, automatic air conditioning, battery master switch, BMW business radio, CD drive, warning triangle, first aid kit and alarm system. The CSL also benefits from uprated AP and K-Sport brake callipers at the front and rear respectively.

The car comes complete with its spare key, locking wheel nut key, owner’s handbook pack including the all-important service booklet, warning triangle and history file as well as a copy of its original invoice to the first owner.

It is evident from the cars extensive history file that this particular example has been very well cared-for, it has fantastic service history and is fresh from a recent service carried out by BMW experts.

This car presents an opportunity to acquire a very original and well-preserved example of the most sought-after M cars, we don’t expect it to stay around for long!