BMW M3 CS F80: more power and less weight for greater driving excitement

The M division of BMW created a beast for the track, but also suitable for the road, based on the M4, I am referring to the M4 GTS. However, this model has a series of limitations for everyday road use that not everyone wants to accept, which is how an intermediate option between the M4 and the M4 GTS, the CS version, came about. But once again we had another drawback: the M4 CS is not practical for certain people because it is a 3-door coupé. Until now…

BMW has sought a new solution to meet the needs of all its customers, and has found it by producing the CS version of the BMW M3. The occupants of the BMW M3 CS will enjoy all the essential features of a model of this kind: as standard it includes elements such as air conditioning, the Harman Kardon sound system and the BMW Professional navigation system. In addition, there will be an atmosphere of sportiness and luxury throughout its interior, thanks to the use of two-tone Silverstone/Schwarz leather combined with Alcántara.

Seen from the outside, there is no doubt about its sportiness. At the front, its aerodynamic kit with enormous air intakes is completed by a discreet yet effective front spoiler, which works together with the aerodynamics of the Gurney-type rear spoiler and the rear diffuser. These three elements, like the bonnet and the roof, are extremely rigid and light as they are made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, which translates into 50 kg less than the base M3.

Mechanically it also receives improvements that make it lighter and more powerful. Its engine has been tuned to deliver 10 CV more than the BMW M3 equipped with the competition package, reaching 460 CV, the same as the M4 CS, while torque also increases by 50 Nm to 600 Nm. As a result, acceleration to 100 km/h takes just 3.9 seconds, with a limited top speed of 280 km/h, and an average consumption of 8.3 l/100 km. The engine also works together with the specific sport exhaust system and the Drivelogic transmission, a seven-speed M DCT dual-clutch gearbox.

Dynamics are also improved thanks to the use of the adaptive M suspension with specific adapted geometry, similar in many components to that of the M3 with competition package, but not entirely the same. The DSC, the active M differential, the steering control systems and the power steering have been modified, and the last two can also be adjusted to our taste or needs depending on the road. The set is completed with special edition 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch at the rear, fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slick tyres to provide excellent grip and safety.

If you want to get hold of an BMW M3 CS, you should not take long to think about it, since BMW will only produce 1,200 units due to what they have called “production factors”. Orders will begin next January, with production starting in March, so delivery to future owners will be around next summer.