BMW M3 CSL manual conversion. Could this be peak M3?

[@wrathgar11]

Proof positive that sometimes new doesn't mean better. I'd take this over a new M4 any day.

[@steved2008]

No you wouldn’t

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

@@steved2008 Having driven both the E46 is WAY better to drive. The M4 is way quicker but it's so dull, the steering feel is nonexistent and it masks it's speed so well you need to be doing 120+ to start having fun. There's a reason so many journalists have said the E46 era were the last good BMWs.

[@Peter-Oxley-Modelling-Lab]

Couldn't agree more. This car is a superb driver focussed-machine. No nonesense ultimate coupe.

[@cutdepiefails6596]

A f80 m3 manual is an wonderful thing that very few really know about, as are m4 (even tho they are uglier).

[@cutdepiefails6596]

@@Ze-Germanzuk well put it in mdm, you will know how fast you are going quite quickly.

[@muhammadzailani7313]

Good day sir, I'm from Nigeria and I was 7 in the year 2002 when my Dad travelled to the UK and He bought me that issue of Evo magazine, that was my first car magazine and one of the sparks that started my love for cars. Pictures of the Enzo, Edonis vs McLaren F1 and Murcielago, 575, Vanquish and 911 Turbo are still in my head alongside this CSL and its racing variant. Very nostalgic for me.

[@golfplaat2]

It was 1961 when my father, as a sixteen year old boy, grabbed his bike and went east. Together with a good friend, who sadly just passed away, he made it al the way to Hamburg, where he parked his biked in the Reeperbahn. It was then, round this time of year, he saw them perform. He vividly recounts the way Stu was the odd one out. Thank you for sharing. I just watched this with him and it brought tears to his eyes.

[@zlyable]

Holy shit! Another Nigerian car guy!!

[@BillyRayValentine83]

@@samplechannel2fiyd5idjfufjfud Not funny. He’s Eloquently written & shared his short story in perfect English and you decide to go full, low bar education & racist. Great 👍🏽

[@muhammadzailani7313]

@@samplechannel2fiyd5idjfufjfud I'm probably richer than you, if you weren't rude I would've sent you some oil money 💸.

[@muhammadzailani7313]

@@golfplaat2 a touching story

[@drink4711]

18 year old design, still looks fresh as ever

[@clausmadsen6754]

Don’t agree ... to me looks outdated and 90s

[@user-eu9ub8kj9j]

Its timeless

[@colton7373]

lol

[@marksmithard7801]

The best looking bmw in my opinion.

[@mubblemann]

@@marksmithard7801 Agree

[@RobSchlegel]

I’d almost forgotten what it feels like to lust after a BMW.

[@fiouable]

Yeah, lust after repair bills.

[@bradcomis1066]

@@fiouable LOL have fun with your Corolla

[@GenaF]

@@bradcomis1066 😂😂😂

[@y2ksierra]

E38, E39, E46 and others from this time period are just about perfect.

[@asensibleyoungman2978]

@R A The arrogance of boy racers is breathtaking. Your self awarded title of 'driver's car' is equally arrogant. There are many ways to enjoy and drive cars. I have no interest in cars like this that beta males race between the traffic lights to hopefully boost their fragile egos. Who cares how fast it is? What does it matter?

[@marcob1729]

It's almost alarming to see how much cleaner BMW design used to be. Even more alarming to know that some them were the "controversial" styling under the direction of Bangle. How innocent we were

[@johnmitchell2269]

The proportions of all E46 3 series are just perfect imo. The right height, length and width. Perfect sized kidney grilles, enough space for driver and passenger. You don't sit too high up, the dash doesn't consume the interoir. If someone wanted a bigger sized BMW, then that person would buy a 5 series or a 3 series touring. The 3 series is not supposed to be a big car, yet the current one is. Sigh.

[@colinwatt00]

What’s important to understand is in the North American market, ‘white BMWs’, namely the 3-series, became somewhat of a cultural icon for millennials and Gen Zers. I got a puncture one day and pulled into a tire shop to see two identical white BMWs parked next to each other and noticed they had been debadged. I made a half-joking comment to the associate and asked what version they were (thinking maybe a 330is or something). He replied he didn’t know, the other belonged to his brother and when he had asked him to procure one for himself, his only requirements were white BMW 3-Series. Needless to say, this new crop of buyers really don’t care about the mechanics and are probably the exact same person to complain about a lack of sound deadening and don’t even know what ‘augmented engine noise’ even is. What we are seeing today is the byproduct of those buyers, albeit on a 5-year delay. What I do find somewhat ironic however is those same buyers are largely shifting over to Mercedes because the short-term popularity of BMWs made them so ubiquitous they lost their brand caché. That, and Mercedes interiors are leagues ahead of BMW which is what these thirsty, social-media gratification-seeking generations are all about. Unfortunate for us ‘older’ enthusiasts who remember BMW as ‘the ultimate driving machine’, it’s going to take another 5-years at minimum for BMW to recognize it’s market position downgrade and shift back toward their core ethos before the consumers see a new vehicle close to what BMWs used to be. If ever.

[@joe718gt4]

The new styling and other shit I think is for younger newer customers, which tend to be their demographic. At the price of exclusivity and handling. HP and brand sells

[@garrettlowell7637]

When I park my E28 next to a current 3 series, it’s like I am parked next to the fat, ugly, older sister. Parked next to a current 5 series it’s like I am parked next to a barge or a tug boat.

[@honestyisthegucci]

@@23Piccolina indeed the Gulia is the better M3 sedan

[@michaeldasilva1752]

Back when "lightweight" actually meant considerable weight reduction over the standard model... not just some marketing term

[@Spargo]

In fairness while this was 243lb lighter than the standard - the E90 GTS had 10% more literage and a cage but managed a 300lb reduction - the F83 M4 GTS however was 'only 60lb lighter than the standard coupe. I'm interested to see what they do with the latest M4 but honestly in many ways the car has fallen out of appeal for me - guess I'm getting old.

[@steve-wu7jp]

When Bmw designed cars we loved

[@davidknuckles6330]

Didn't the M2 CS come out like, last year? So melodramatic

[@actionarslan]

Seriously. Those were a joy to drive. Today, meh

[@MaStA8LaStA]

Last great bmw was in the 40s. Nowadays the cars suck.. With their airbags and doors.

[@reginaldbowls7180]

Speak for yourself

[@achmadosman9807]

My 2001 328 is my daily drive. 200 000 km on the clock and still puts a smile on my face. Body , interior and engine still superb after 20 years. She looks and drives a treat.

[@mikedenkinger9570]

As a US-spec E46 M3 owner of almost 17 years, i recently traded in my beloved E46 in on a G87 M2 (manual). I miss everything about the E46 M3 when im in the M2. It was wonderfully analog in all rhe right areas. The steering feedback was magical and it was something you could live with everyday. It was essentially the "Labrador Retriever" of the high performance world: It was never the best at anything but it was so good at so many things that it brings a smile to the face of the driver almost every time. Ill never forget the morning during pandemic when i lost my job. The next morning, I promptly packed a lunch and the drove from Atlanta to the Tail of the Dragon (Deals Gap, North Carolina - 311 turns in 11 miles). To my surprise, i was literally the only car on America's Greatest Driving Road - All to myself!!! Sunny 70F weather.... I got 20 end-to-end runs in before i headed home, grinning ear to ear. I will miss that car to the end of my days.....dealer flipped it in 2 hours, BTW.

[@orthopaedicsurgeongr]

You have an awesome m2 to create core memories now! Enjoy

[@smilepermile8165]

When I think of the M3 CSL - I always remind myself of Jeremy Clarkson canning it up the country roads of Isle Of Man (with the picturesque scenery of the town Douglas behind it). Many people seem to only care about a car's exhaust sound and gloss over a car's induction sound. This E46 CSL's carbon airbox is EVERY reason why they shouldn't. In 2021 where we have strict emissions legislations and safety standards, there's no way BMW would ever make a naturally aspirated high revving + lightweight car like the M3 CSL ever again. I know i'm in the minority for saying this but most 'car enthusiasts' only seem to care about horsepower figures and carwow dragraces, so the beancounters at these manufacturers would hardly see the appeal of bringing out a car like this ever again. This is why I'm grateful that people like Harry are bringing out a retrospective review video 20 years later. Its amazing how BMW M have changed over two decades. The new G8x M3/M4 may not have a lightweight special like the CSL, but it somehow weighs at least 400kg more.

[@SocietyUnplugged]

"I know i'm in the minority for saying this but most 'car enthusiasts' only seem to care about horsepower figures and carwow dragraces, so the beancounters at these manufacturers would hardly see the appeal of bringing out a car like this ever again. " I agree but there is also another reason why we don't see cars like that again. BMW build cars for people that buys them, not their fans. Since '00 there is a big change in sports and supercars: cars needs to go fast without asking too much from the driver. You don't sell cars that are hard and/or uncomfortable to drive.

[@a20axf]

You’re the sort of person I’d enjoy talking about cars with at a pub in the middle of a Sunday run. Don’t get me wrong, power is great but, there is so so much more to a good car. When you can’t rev the car out and enjoy it, it becomes a tad pointless on the roads actually. Look up PandaForceOne for some M3 CSL POV videos on some European mountain passes. Damn I’d love one of these after watching those videos.

[@colinpaton3770]

M2 CS

[@smilepermile8165]

@@colinpaton3770 Are you serious? The S55 is one of the worst sounding 6 cylinders ever made, why would you ever compare it to one of the best sounding 6 cylinders ever made? M2 CS weighs 1536+kg and the M3 CSL weighs 1380+kg. If you know anything about driving, that 150kg weight difference is very noticeable.

[@cannyscott]

I miss my e46 m3

[@toysandgameswithesmeeandis4096]

Fantastic timing of this video when every man and his dog are reviewing the new M3 and M4, Harry gives us this gem. Always Will be my favourite channel.

[@duncanidaho7494]

Indeed. Such a gentleman !

[@nervo6321]

Me too

[@permanentlydisappointed6594]

All these new cars with a billion creases, details and massive grilles look so horrible compared to ~2000 cars with their elegant lines.

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

Couldn't agree more. The E46 is simple, sleek, well proportioned and elegant. I've been told that the tastes of the Chinese middle class have obliged BMW to slap giant buck-toothed kidney grilles on all their new cars, but it seems to me that the rot started with Chris Bangle and his bizarre fake-eyelashes front ends and slash-cut boot lids aesthetic.

[@duncanidaho7494]

Agreed. I think the E90 LCI is the last good looking 3 series.

[@dragospahontu]

They were a bit dull

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

@R A The E46 was in production by 1997, and Bangle didn't join BMW until late 1999. Maybe he added that little semi-circle to the headlights but he had absolutely nothing to do with the car's shape.

[@andriusGNR]

Not really, you are only being nostalgic, it's common for human to look back and have nostalgia for something. I love this csl too, but new m3 really isn't crap, that's bold statement.

[@Gaaaaaaaaaaad]

For me the best looking M3 ever made. Sound on point, size on point. Love this car

[@WestfieldFreshAir]

The smile that sound created on my face the first time you opened it up. 10x better car than a new one. Exceptionally well priced gearbox conversion.

[@FreshlySnipes]

Both old and new give me smiles. It’s a different type of smile.

[@MattCSLnut]

Having been fortunate enough to have owned of the 422 UK CSL for 7 years I grew to really enjoy the SMG tech after a few miles, being able to have both hands on the string wheel, especially when lapping the world famous Nurburgring, the spiritual home of the M3 CSL is where the SMG makes most sense. I'm all for having choice so it's great to see a nicely done (OEM like) Full Manual conversion but I wouldn't have changed the SMG in mine. IMHO while not perfect, the SMG is perfectly suited to the CSL, especially when it's used for the main purpose it was created for and lets be brutally honest, the full on Manual 6 speed gearbox with the analogue clutch isn't exactly the smoothest of Manual gearboxes out there. FYI The CSL seats can be adjusted for rake & height but it involves "old school" spanners, nuts & bolts. There are 3 positions to choose from. It's one of the first thing I adjusted when I got mine.

[@madmarv4n]

SMG is definitely over hated for no reason and was because of people just copying each other’s opinions.

[@jms211]

I was lucky enough to own one of these CSL's which I bought the same year I left the RAF in 2003. It had a silver plaque showing it was number 1003 in the production run. It is still on the road somewhere. It was the most amazing car and nearly got me into trouble on several occasions. These days I tool about in a rather more placid Audi estate which is mainly used for shopping and carting my teenagers around.

[@cameronmmj9291]

You're not selling the family life to me with this comment 😂

[@jms211]

@@cameronmmj9291 HaHa!!! Not sure how old you are but kids change you. The CSL is a distant memory now, but I have recently bought a Ducati... WTF!

[@chrisg4rr377]

@@cameronmmj9291 I've got two kids, a M3 and sportsbike. I'm lucky enough to have 4 babies

[@johnboardman5602]

@@jms211 2 kids and 3 Ducatis here :)

[@bikeanon5470]

1 kid, 1 more on the way, A Ducati and a diesel Renault Mégane 🤣

[@stephengrimes257]

Don’t you just love Harry when he’s enthusing.

[@manfredschmalbach9023]

That's why I recurrently return here, of course: Brit'sh understating enthusiasm.

[@MP-Fin]

Immediately after viewing this I fired up my Forza Motorsport game, took the E46 M3, stripped it down, adjusted the gearing, took it on a Dubai mountain circuit, and while driving (playing), pretended to give a presentation to a camera about this wonderful driver’s car all the while alone in my apartment. Please send help

[@jeebus2121]

Don't apologize.

[@mohammadmoosa907]

King shit

[@wolfiestreet6899]

This is your boss. Get back to work.

[@douglasfaichnie]

Ha! 👌

[@lonerider3441]

You don't need help, marte. You're alright

[@dougbaliko4604]

I just love when Harry is driving a car that he really likes. He gets this sinister smile and gives a sigh, almost saying, oh yeah that’s it! It’s so much fun to watch. Thank you for bringing us along for the ride again, Harry!

[@Franksey180]

So glad this car has been featured in the garage. I recall a certain "super car" channel (something about 'glass') once completely dismissed this model on one of his videos, I assume because it wasn't a Ferrari/Lambo it wasn't of interest to him and from that moment I didn't waste any more time on his videos ever again. Great job Harry :)

[@cervelo9465]

Loll, correct. Seen through glass was young and foolish at that time and has since corrected the error of his ways re M3 CSL etc

[@tristandavies4381]

I recall that video. Simply disgraceful.

[@adams7405]

BMW were building better cars than Lambo/Ferrari back then

[@cervelo9465]

True, Adam :)

[@edjack1993]

Perfect. p.s. Harry - turn off your phone when you’re filming 😀

[@morbsgti20vt83]

Think he mentioned in a different video that it might be the mic

[@JxH]

I love the sound of GSM interference. The only thing better is the sound of L-band radar on the handheld microphone of a CNN reporter on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. Cheers.

[@Cyberdyne-kg8ku]

I could recreate that external rattle if I loosen my exhaust heatshield.

[@energymc22]

I had an e46 330i with a loose baffle in the exhaust that sounded pretty damn close to a CSL when cruising at a particular engine speed with the windows down. Was chuffed when I discovered it and any plans to replace said faulty exhaust were binned!

[@toddfry6635]

So happy I’ve still got my ‘02 M3. Puts a smile on my face every time I’m in it.

[@rw3915]

I have an '05, which I bought in '08; I still have it and it now has 215,000 miles on the clock. I'm still using the original clutch! Never had the heads off it, and amazingly enough, I've never had to touch the AC in the car, meaning it's still on the factory charge of freon when it rolled out of the plant. These cars are perfect for long term ownership proposition. There is minimal electronics, hardly no delicate LCD displays, and the engine is simple. There's no turbos to complicate matters and the E46 only has one radiator. I just love my old car!

[@andrewgibbs5135]

As driving enthusiasts, we like to change gear......and turn keys. The sound, or lack of it, during a gear change is so heartwarming. Enjoyed that, many thanks for posting 👍

[@joshuad1716]

That noise when you let off in third without downshifting but get right back on it...I never get tired of it in my m3. God I love this car. I own this car and have for some time and still watch videos on KZbin of it every chance I get

[@mohk8499]

Now we’re talking Harry! Get one for the garage ASAP!!

[@douglasjames4905]

Harry, with all due respect...ditch the Lancia when done to get this ASAP!!

[@weedaviec]

@@douglasjames4905 totally different cars. Both are worth having- keep both.

[@dosHalfandHalf]

I love my e46 m3! an emotional roller coaster that you can drive and play like an instrument, The e46 CSL is the king, and while it is still praised in all it's well deserved glory it's still not talked about enough.

[@Rhowhat]

Still the best sounding six cylinder engine out there. Edit: I may have forgotten about the Metzger engines. This is still top 3.

[@S2GUnit]

I absolutely love the sound but I still prefer the smooth, distinct purr of the 90's NSX

[@phillipvazquez2834]

Idk man the 4.2 in my trailblazer sounds pretty nice

[@chappy2121]

They do sound good, but I prefer a 1jz Gte I am biased though 😉

[@S2GUnit]

@@mikaelgaspar9547 Yep, agreed about the Porsche. @chappy2121 I'm biased to the NSX also.

[@johnmitchell2269]

I love the E46 M3 CSL. It's my all time favourite BMW car. But with regards to sound, it's only the induction noise that I like. The exhaust sound is tinny, raspy and hollow. Not so nice to hear. I know the price difference is astronomical, but the current Ford GT is imo the best sounding 6 cylinder OEM car.

[@Levent_Ergun]

When I first saw a E46 back in 2001 I immediately fell in love. It's such a shame that finding a clean E46, let alone a M3 or CSL is so hard now. Clean ones are already appreciating as fast as E30s.

[@ryanguercio7061]

Amazing review and I’ve seen this car reviewed in the past and I’m in love with it. Having sold BMW in the USA for over 7 years and during the end of the run of the e46 m3 it’s a car that has always been a dream car to own. Unfortunately no csl in the USA so I remember dreaming of a white on red 6speed competition. This has to be one of the best all around cars ever made with the manual conversion. I would give anything to drive this car. We sold Dinan through my dealership and I was the rep and I remember driving the supercharged e46 m3 with every Dinan part available on it from the supercharger to the differential and shorter gearing. It had all the suspension components the wheels and the upgraded Dinan brakes as well. It was an incredible machine. The diff made the biggest difference for the money. It revved so fast and the short gearing made the car so much better. I couldn’t imagine it driving a CSL with a manual and the differential.

[@riaanbresler2888]

Quite honestly the car looks like it’s doing a 100 miles an hour standing still ! I have always loved e46’s and have owned over 10 . Could never quite get into the newer models but must admit the new m3 funny grill and all is starting to look appealing to me. But then again I grew up with a poster of a Countach on my bedroom wall. Now at the ripe old age of 47 I must admit to myself that poster could have been a E46 CSL and it would have given me as much joy as the Lambo , even more so, but because so little CSL’s came to South Africa the chances of getting one especially today for acceptable money is near impossible ! For me I am glad there are people out there who can finally start understanding the smile that any M3 and especially this one can put on your face by seeing a review of an 18 year car which in my mind is one of the true HALO cars out there today. Keep it up Harry I was really impressed by your views today , well done.

[@martiniv8924]

The E46 M3 engine (S54) has to rate as one of the best sounding engines ever 👌🏻😎

[@jonathanmoga5188]

Intake yes . Exhaust. No

[@Speedwelltuning]

I wouldn’t agree, I’ve owned and driven a few. There are better engines out there..

[@simonlloyd7557]

but only from 5k upwards. below that it is anonymous.

[@olliesherman3767]

100%

[@2702simmo]

Did 42k miles in mine over 2 years I’d totally agree Personally loved the exhaust note from a driving perspective better than the dull E92 M3 that followed it

[@stevejohnson2108]

that was when BMWs were truly the ultimate driving machines.

[@duncanidaho7494]

until the e90 they really were the ultimate driving machines

[@ayookusanya5437]

still are the ultimate driving machine:)

[@TassieLorenzo]

@@ayookusanya5437 Hmm... X4M for example? Are you sure. Then the BMW XM takes the cake -- the celebration of 50 years of M-cars being a two-tonne 700hp SUV, what's going on there?

[@WashburnD10]

Such unique content from Harry. Absolutely marvellous!

[@simonlloyd7557]

yeah, ive never seen a review of the M3 CSL before. Except for the other ones.

[@hit_thepdx_gym1940]

Best example I’ve seen! Unfortunate the SMG gets so much negative business, it was really a pioneer in motor sport.

[@Spargo]

I agree! I did the CSL flash to the software on mine too and I have to say its a major improvement - shame they didn't flash all the cars because it makes all the difference.

[@darrylweathers6764]

Only current M car id even consider having over an E46 CSL is the M2. Maybe im looking at it through rose tinted specs, but BMW's older cars look more and more appealling to me

[@64bakes]

I love the CSL. I remember sitting in one when they just came out, as a kid in our local BMW dealership. Fell in love! Remember my Dad asking the sales rep about it and being told "drives like it's on rails, but not ideal for use on public roads". The S54 is by far my favourite M engine ever made, period. Every single thing about it is perfect from sound to power delivery. I used to own an E85 Z4 M Roadster and this video reminds me of the bark that thing made. The exhaust was a bit shorter than the E46 so it was a bit louder overall, but in terms of pure induction the ITB's really make a massive difference, which unfortunately my Z4 didn't have of course. Still in non-CSL form the S54 still sounds awesome. Worth noting that the CSL rack was also standard fit in the Z4 M along with the CSL brakes, which as a car comes close to the E46 M3 but for a lot less money. Granted it's more of a handful in the twisties and not as well balanced as the E46 M3, but you still get the awesome soundtrack, steering and manual box. The E46 M3 in general is quite simply the best M3 of all time. P.S. the only things to note are if owning an S54-engined BMW, they are deceptively quite expensive to service every other year, as valve clearances need to be checked, etc. The VANOS can sometimes develop problems too, but nowhere near as much as the old S50/52's did.

[@Taylor___]

I thought it sounded like a Mclaren F1 too! Then you said it

[@RS-nq8xk]

Don't forget the NSX, which the F1 based its sound on (I think...)

[@cumnmrmptaaa4234]

Yes! Thank you video games!

[@smithies_jocks]

The F1 was a BMW engine also.

[@adpmol]

basicly the F1 is a double i6 m3 CSL engine but older and lighter

[@Taylor___]

@@adpmol You're exactly right. I looked into it. Half an F1 engine!

[@limpet7r63]

They sound so much better inside than out. Induction noise to die for.

[@jimbarbwe1985]

This was back when the M badge ment something.

[@martinkulik9466]

What do you mean that it doesn't anymore!? M still means motorsport and every m3/4 is worth it

[@duncanidaho7494]

@@martinkulik9466 what he means is that they put the m badge on almost every model. look 240i M, 340i M etc. its more M for marketing....

[@RD19902010]

@@duncanidaho7494 much worse, X2 118i "M-package" lol.

[@L_J_D23]

@@RD19902010 that’s just trim level

[@evorobin]

Just bought an SMG converted to manual M3 today. S54 🔥

[@aronyak1]

The intake sounds like half of that 2wd Diablo, which is the best sounding car I've ever heard.

[@elitetraksmusic]

You're the only person on KZbin who lets us hear you starting the car before driving it. I LOVE IT

[@john-vy1ml]

Just bought a manual 01 330ci for 300$. Needs work but will appreciate with every mile driven. What a great drivers car.

[@aaa84gt]

That's ridiculous amounts of proper BMW for the money, well done!

[@haegor]

I've had a Manual 328Ci since 2002, not as fast as M3 but much cheaper to maintain and that straight six NA wail is awesome

[@johnbradshaw5891]

Glorious induction noise. Cheered me up no end!

[@kenxiong6830]

The last of the great BMWs. It has been a downward spiral from there on. Truly a BMW legend

[@johncreedon7847]

E92 also epic. Downward spiral after e92

[@kenxiong6830]

@@johncreedon7847 e92s were nice but they kind of lost a bit of the soul that made the previous M3 generations legendary. The E46 was and will forever be the most truest iteration of the ultimate driving machine

[@AC-wl7ve]

@@kenxiong6830 yes i love the engine in those and they can be modded to look really good, but something about them just doesnt do it for me. seems too big and the interior/seats are pretty bad.

[@secretsquirrel9722]

As an ex-bmw master tech that's driven a couple of these. This in a manual would 100%, hands down, be my ultimate drivers car! This in smg, was the reason that in standard form, the Z4M was my ultimate car. Smaller, lighter with the full M drive train. So brutal, even the traction control of the time couldn't keep up and could still bite you which is what I loved about it. Such raw driving! It was because of the smg that this car was in the shop. At only 2000km, we'll before smg's where ripping floor pans out of the rear. This car had cracked a top weld on the alloy rear subframe due to it's brutal on off throttle response and cup tyres. Making a loud click each time. BUT, forget what it sounds like outside. The csl intake and exhaust produce the most epic noise inside the car. That combined with the cup tyres hurling every stone into the guards was a brilliant experience and one I will never forget.

[@secretsquirrel9722]

Now I've watched the actual video. I will add for anyone who has an E46 M3. The manual swap is WAY easier than you would suspect. The box is exactly the same. Your literally have to weld in the tunnel bracket for the shifter mount. Then it's a case of removing the smg gear and replacing it with standard clutch gear. Plus point. When each end of the smg units where at around $3.5-4k each from bmw. Pretty sure you could sell yours on if they where in working condition.

[@DriftingSquirrel]

Haven’t watched yet. However, it’s an instant like from me and I’m eager to watch this! As a fellow E46 M3 owner and car lover, this is such a great platform. CSL guise just makes it even better and the manual conversion is a must, for me...

[@themuseicman]

Had the experience of driving one in my 20s when I worked for BMW. All M cars are specially, but this was spectacular

[@FOXHOUND4143]

WHAT AN UNEXPECTED VIDEO! LOVE THIS. I always wanted a CSL with a manual.

[@thewatchman1078]

About as close to perfection as it gets; beautiful shape and perfect blend of analogue design and advanced engineering. A perfect car for its era.

[@dilfateh]

Damn when he hit that sport button my face went 😳

[@CLOUD316]

I remember back in 2000 I've always wanted a manual E46 M3 but instead during that year I found a 94 MK4 Supra Turbo 6 speed kept it for 20 years and now 20 years later I found this lovely White E46 M3 6 speed and as a car enthusiast im enjoying every moment of it. It really is a very special car and I wish everyone one day to be able to experience one.....

[@the5th2000]

Great I know where to go for the manual conversion on my E61 M5 now. When I win the lotto

[@DiscoFang]

It's not that simple on an E60/1 M5. Massive undertaking. The wiring harness and countless modules need replacing and tricky reprogramming of all. Plus, you need another gearbox, the SMG can't be converted.

[@the5th2000]

I know that. I have spent many hours planning my fantasy garage. Harry does say towards the end of the video though that the garage that did this conversion is doing an E60 too, presumably following the steps you outline

[@Shabbe02]

Just buy a us car

[@the5th2000]

@@Shabbe02 True. But wrong side of the road!

[@Cavush]

This car was already, one of the best looking BMW's ever made, and now with the manual box? It may very well be the best one ever made.

[@fredrik3863]

Great video, love the sound of the M3 CSL. The best M3, E46 😍 Please do a video of the E39 M5 as well.

[@mikey380sx]

I was following a completely stock E46 M3 this morning on my way to work and the nostalgia hit hard man. It was mint

[@taforth]

I love that you referenced the McLaren F1 when it came to the sound of the induction bark, because that’s what I’ve always felt was the case with the CSL 👌!

[@qasimmir7117]

It’s essentially half a McLaren F1 engine.

[@peterwackel997]

Brilliant review. I can totally feel him when he revs the car and speaks about all those emotions that come with the car.

[@andrewtorrance3374]

IIRC, there were 3 bolt positions on the base of the seat to adjust the rake. Moving it to the rear one gave it a better seating position for me.

[@romanholidaycandybat]

Yep but it’s a seat out job to change - but confirm it can be done. They are on usual motorsport type seat brackets under the side panels.

[@MC968CS]

@@romanholidaycandybat it’s not seat out. I’ve got one and done it - very very quick easy job. Seat in.

[@romanholidaycandybat]

@@MC968CS could not work out for the life of me how to do it in situ! Next time I’ll give it a go in place.

[@samcourt6228]

That noise is just fabulous. The whole package is just perfection as far as I’m concerned; they look as good as they sound.

[@specialboye4910]

saw one of these today at waitrose in salisbury and had to take a look, now this get uploaded, how bizzare XD

[@Stringwar]

It's the matrix. The more you pay attention to these "coincidences" the more you will see this in all areas of life.

[@gazfish]

Play the lottery!

[@aaa84gt]

It's a sign. Go get it champ!

[@wolfiestreet6899]

There are no conspiracies. We're watching you....

[@LnDSuv]

I hate that it was a limited run. World needs more of these engines.

[@zlatanmorrison8182]

Interesting stuff, looks like an improvement, and for reasonable money (considering how much the cars change hands for). E46 3 series was a handsome beast also.....

[@jackoalltrades5510]

Done about 40 SMG-to-manual conversions in E46 M3s between 2011 and 2014 and the results were obvious. I can only imagine what it does to a CSL.

[@memomomomomo185]

Great video!! Another car that would benefit from a manual conversion is the CLK Black Series.

[@AndySmallbone]

Guy I used to work had one and I sat in it for a few laps on a track day and it was amazing. Funny thing is another track day he did at brands hatch he was “trying” to show off and spanked it into a barrier just after graham hill bend 🤣 I still have video of him doing it as well

[@AndySmallbone]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4bdZ6mkpqplmcU

[@Volvo8Fifty4Life]

@@AndySmallbone What a shame. Hurt my feelings just watching it unfold. Hopefully all sorted out now.

[@fatfreddyscoat7564]

The last proper, desirable 3 series and the last proper drivers M3.

[@johnsmith1474]

Fantastic thing. I'd take mine with a sunroof that is not available, a perfect seat, and without the noise I consider an objectionable buzzing sound. I like dead quiet on the highway. Very much enjoyed Harry's enjoyment.

[@colinw1591]

Guess an M2 CS manual would make a great comparison (although it's already lost the sound contest!)

[@roadreg1820]

That’s the closest M car you’ll get to an M3 CSL from bmw today.

[@robertmagee5523]

Had a 320d from 2004 the dash is very familiar..this car is on a different level.

[@p_kf]

Any day over the new pig snout m3. Legendary machine. Great stuff, Harry.

[@Ptank989]

Loved my e46. Wasn't an m3 but still have fond memories

[@Dkd21]

2 cars I would have in the dream garage , manual E46 CSL and a manual 360 CS !

[@jakubgraus13]

Thank you Harry for this. I can’t afford cars such as these just yet, but I can experience them through your videos and your passion for cars.

[@sloob3039]

Great video as usual! By the way, The bonnet was aluminum on all E46 M3

[@wolfiestreet6899]

Don't encourage him, he'll start tapping at it with his magnet tool like a crazed woodpecker...

[@LuisCardoso-bo8yx]

The sound of the boot closing. Even that sounds solid!

[@Pauloajm15]

Aside from a Mclaren F1, the CSL with a manual is my dream car.

[@after_midnight9592]

Same engine note as well

[@AC-wl7ve]

@@after_midnight9592 practically the same engine design, just half the cylinders.

[@krautsurfer8181]

The only car I regret selling is my E46, not an M3 but a 320d. So much fun and analog to drive. Had an E91 afterwards, felt totally disconnected from the road. Thx for bringing back the memories!

[@rvpsilva9213]

Thak you Harry! Turn up the volume knob!

[@Belgian-Motorsport]

Dreamcar right there. I've also wanted to know how the CSL would be with a manual. Great to hear that lots of people have made the conversion. Love the video with all that induction noise and exhaust sound. I just wish you would've filmed the induction noise from the outside. A long bit of road, accelerating towards the camera, hearing that S54 rev higher and higher ... dreams :D

[@raremachines8857]

A Beautiful car and Harry at his very best🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

I was never keen on the E46, but i always liked this limited edition CSL.

[@jonenpelit857]

This was the time when bmw were still making cars and not toasters on wheels

[@tonymartin5444]

Another great video Harry. My elder son had one a few years back - I could always hear him approaching our house from about a mile away! Epic machine and in my book the pinnacle of M3 design - beautiful looking thing.

[@ConquerDriving]

You said the gearbox is notchy as it has just gone in? I thought they used the existing box but removed the robot? I've had an S54 engined BMW with a 6 speed manual and it was notchy which apparently is normal.

[@piuthemagicman]

The linkage is notchy, not the gearbox. It's a BMW trait but still nice gear changes.

[@TooCoolForSchool97]

They probably replaced bushes and that will give you a nice new notchy feel.

[@jackdpaul]

Should get one of these to do some driving lessons in...

[@ConquerDriving]

@@jackdpaul Haha, when I had my Z4M I think 17mpg. I'd have to put my prices up 😄

[@yiannip7075]

As a previous E46 M3 owner. Lucky to have a brand new 2001 and a 2005 comp pack both manuals. I can say no car has a place in my heart like it. It was special then and now even more so. A legend of a car I am happy I got to experience. It ticked all the boxes.

[@rw20000]

I had the cooking version M3 with the SMG way back when. I actually think the brutality of that automated box gave the car real character. It may be a poor cousin to the DCTs we have now but over time it might be seen as a defining feature .

[@gregs8685]

I don’t think time has been kind to the SMG (or Ferrari F1 for that matter), and I doubt that will change in the future.

[@carguy2256]

Most beautiful BMW ever made

[@martingibb517]

" you can get in the back should you want to " priceless.

[@stevewhite9653]

I love it as much as I did when it was new and with a manual is now perfect.

[@colhapablap]

e46 m3 was the last great modern-classic m car. so yes, a csl with a manual conversion is peak m3. no doubt.

[@powerpulls7363]

Describing that noise beautifully Harry, really hitting the nail on the head why I own an E46 M3 in manual.

[@MrJAvB]

Wild dream: a podcast starring Harry Metcalfe, Jeremy Clarkson and Tiff Needell. Vote and let's make it happen :)

[@energymc22]

FYI - there's a podcast featuring Chris Harris and Needell, and Harris and Metcalfe. Collecting cars podcast 👍

[@douglasjames4905]

They could talk farms if there was a lull in the proceedings.

[@Ktmzqw]

@@energymc22 the Chris Harris podcast is fantastic. Nicky grist was an amazing interview

[@justinfletcher1882]

The detailing on this car is amazing!!! Lovely motor!.

[@KaiMcG]

I love the SMG gearbox, you just need to know how to drive it.

[@beenzer1109]

Yeah, me too. Makes the car in my opinion.. 👍

[@AC-wl7ve]

i loved mine too, but reliability was an issue with it. it was also very finicky, i had to be cautious driving it on really hot days because it might act up, get sluggish and even drop out of gear sometimes. keep in mind it did this for the about 7 years and would always work perfectly on cooler days. also seemed to act up sometimes when id be stuck in traffic.

[@bindefuni5407]

For something more recent I would like to see a manual Alpine A110. That's an exercise in low weight and driver engagement. Thank you for the video Harry.

[@jaglemans6778]

I was expecting a price tag of £15k-£20k. Bargain.

[@2702simmo]

Where’ve you been? 😂😂

[@jaglemans6778]

@@2702simmo These CSL’s are going to be £100k cars in the not too distant future. They could charge what they like for one of these conversions. Edit: Although maybe you thought I was talking about the car price?😆

[@az.................]

For the conversion? The gearbox is the same between the SMG and manual cars, just the shifter and hydraulics are different. The manual stuff all bolts up to the SMG box, about the worst of it is welding the bracket to hold the rear of the shifter assembly in place. Unfortunately as Harry found out that six speed is a notchy affair especially when cold.

[@2702simmo]

@@jaglemans6778 I did 😂😂

[@2702simmo]

@@az................. I always preferred my smg e46 M3 to the manual , far better when pushing on particularly with the CSL software uploaded

[@NeoNeko99]

I was lucky enough to drive one that had been converted to manual and it was sheer perfection my eyes.

[@williammillard687]

Was the front wing painted slightly darker than the door at the same time as the manual conversion? Paint matching by braille...

[@kristisrb]

Yeah, it seems it had it's nose scuffed. Sad to see such car suffering from such a shoddy paint job. Raises the question how well the rest of it is...

[@hristohristov8787]

There are cars that will never get old,one of them is this E46 M3 CSL