Tag: BMW

  • Market Find: BMW Individual Urban Green M4 Competition

    Market Find: BMW Individual Urban Green M4 Competition

    As anyone who had Army Men toys or even a casual interest in the armed forces can attest- Urban Green is just cool. This criminally(?) underused hue of green looks right at home on most sporty variants, and the BMW M4 (VIN: WBS4Y9C04LFH71553) you see here is no exception.

    Featuring a claimed $16,880 in factory options, this highly spec’d BMW M4 is the kind of build that may cause some to initially scratch their heads, but really draws a crowd upon arrival.

    This BMW Individual Urban Green M4 Coupe is currently on offer at Park Place LTD for $61,950, and does feature one minor incident on the CarFax. Find more info about this Tailored Driver, here.

  • Market Find: BMW Individual Grigio Telesto BMW M4 Competition

    Market Find: BMW Individual Grigio Telesto BMW M4 Competition

    If you’re looking for an F82 Comp that checks most boxes, this one could be it. Clean title, low mileage, BMW Individual color and, clean CarFax. It’s slightly modded, but this could be the ONE for a proper enthusiast.

    Here is a BMW Individual Grigio Telesto 2018 BMW M4 Competition with about 34,000 miles on it. Some mods include Active Autowerks Equal Length Resonated Midpipe, KW Has Lowering Springs, and Paint Protection Film on Front Bumper, Hood, Front Fenders, and Rear Quarter Panels. Bonus points for PPF, gotta protect that paint!

    Seller states: “All service has been done on time. Oil changes, brake fluid flushes, brake pads, etc. Tires all have 8/32 or more of tread, zero leaks, and zero curb rash on any of the wheels. The car is bone stock engine-wise, has never been tuned, etc. It has been a weekend driver and garage kept for its entire life.” They even mention taking it to a shop in Costa Mesa for a pre-purchase inspection.

    This definitely feels enthusiast-owned and you can tell the car was looked after. This is a win in our book. You can check out the Craigslist Ad HERE for more information. More photos below.

  • 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1 of 1 to be Live Auctioned for Charity by Gooding & Company During Monterey Car Week

    2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1 of 1 to be Live Auctioned for Charity by Gooding & Company During Monterey Car Week

    • One-of-one 2025 BMW M5 is a collaboration between BMW M, BMW Individual, and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®.
    • Unique interior and exterior finishes and details created exclusively for this special automobile.
    • The first 2025 BMW M5 delivered in North America (estimated delivery October 2024).
    • Proceeds from the sale will go to the Concours’ charitable partner, Pebble Beach Company Foundation.
    • The vehicle will be auctioned by Gooding & Company on Friday, August 16.

    [source: BMW AG]

    Woodcliff Lake, NJ – The all-new seve nth generation BMW M5 was revealed to the world earlier this month at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. And now, to celebrate the arrival of the 717-hp M Hybrid-powered super sedan in the US, BMW M and BMW Individual in collaboration with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® have created a one-of-a-kind special automobile that will be auctioned during Pebble Beach Automotive Week. The 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 will be the first 2025 M5 delivered in North America, and is distinguished by exclusive paint and upholstery colors, wheels, and bespoke interior details that make this M5 entirely unique.

    The 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 will be auctioned at no-reserve by Gooding & Company Friday, August 16. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, a charity that supports literacy and education programs for disadvantaged young people in Monterey County.

    The only 2025 BMW M5 finished in BMW Individual Frozen Orange metallic.
    Taking inspiration from the spectacular orange hues of a Pebble Beach sunset, the BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 makes a strong first impression with its striking coat of BMW Individual Frozen Orange metallic (frozenorange; metallic matte; C41; BMW) paint. The stunning color was scheduled to be discontinued from BMW Plant Dingolfing prior to the start of M5 production, meaning the body of the Pebble Beach M5 had to be painted weeks in advance. This also ensured that no other 2025 M5 would be painted the same color.

    The paint is complimented by hand-painted orange accents on the staggered M Dual-Spoke Bicolor wheels, Style 951M, mounted on performance tires. The 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels surround massive M Carbon Ceramic brakes with calipers finished in Matte Gold.

    A dramatic interior package befitting such a distinctive vehicle.
    The tech-forward, driver-oriented interior has been appointed in a completely unique color scheme. The M Multi-Function seats are finished in Kyalami Orange and Silverstone Extended Merino leather – a combination created specifically for the #1/1 and unavailable on the standard production M5. The headrests of both front seats are emblazoned with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® logo, using an innovative new printing technology, just above the illuminated M5 badge.

    Carbon Fiber Silver Thread High Gloss trim with Dark Silver Accent spans the dashboard and is adorned with the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® logo just to the right of the BMW Curved Display, with “#1/1” leaving no doubt about this M5’s individuality. The logo and #1/1 inscription are also present on the front doorsills.

    In total, the 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 is fitted with over $57,000 worth of bespoke options. Much of the finishing was done by hand at the M works in Garching, the spiritual home of the M5 where the first two generations were largely hand-built.

    Premium features and technology for the everyday drive.
    The 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 will spoil the winning bidder with a full complement of performance, luxury, and infotainment features.

    The Driving Assistance Professional Package permits the Lane Keeping Assistant with Side Collision Protection and Distance Control to be used when travelling at highway speeds. At lower speeds up to 40 mph, the Traffic Jam Assistant can provide attentive, unlimited hands-free driving to ease the strain of especially dense traffic situations on limited access highways.

    The Executive Package brings illumination to the kidney grille, a power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades, front ventilated seats, and Parking Assistant Plus. The Carbon Package includes a CFRP roof panel, rear spoiler, and mirror caps. And M Drive Professional adds two additional, track-oriented driving modes – DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS – designed to ensure the combustion engine and electric motor are both active and the cooling system is conditioned for track driving.

    Finally, the M Driver’s Package raises the M5’s top speed to 190 mph and includes a 1-day high-performance driving class at a BMW Performance Center.

    It is estimated that delivery of the M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 to the winning bidder will occur in late October 2024.  Gooding & Company’s auction listing can be viewed here. Interested parties can register to bid at www.goodingco.com/register.

    The 2025 BMW M5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance #1/1 will be on display from 10:00 AM Wednesday, August 14, at Gooding & Company’s space at Pebble Beach Parc du Concours, located on the corner of Stevenson Drive and Portola Road in Pebble Beach.

    BMW Group in America
    BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and assembles the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

  • The First BMW M3 Competition Touring in Individual Ruby Star

    The First BMW M3 Competition Touring in Individual Ruby Star

    Being first always comes with some bragging rights and according to BMW Welt | BMW Museum, this is the first M3 Competition Touring in BMW Individual Ruby Star (P9L) solid delivered in Germany. BMW Welt | BMW Museum probably has the best database for things like this so we wouldn’t argue with them. First or last, this is an exciting color for an exciting car.

    Ruby Star is deeply rooted in the heritage of certain luxury car manufacturers. Notably, Porsche introduced Ruby Star (also known as Rubystar or Rubystone Red) as a special color in the early 1990s, establishing it as an iconic choice among collectors and enthusiasts of the brand.

    It was also stated that the vehicle was collected at BMW Welt. We hope to see more photos of this car online and eventually run a full feature on it. Check out the original Instagram post and more photos below.

  • BMW Individual Fire Orange – U94

    BMW Individual Fire Orange – U94

    This one is HOT! Fire Orange (U94) is famously associated with the BMW M3 GTS, a limited-edition track-focused variant of the E92 M3. It has since been available on other models through BMW Individual.

    Fire Orange is a bright and vivid orange, making it one of the more attention-grabbing colors in BMW’s palette. It typically has a high-gloss finish, which enhances its bold appearance and highlights the car’s lines and contours.

    Below is a gallery of several BMW cars painted in Fire Orange and posted to Instagram by some of our favorite accounts.

  • BMW Individual San Marino Blue Metallic 2023 BMW M3 Touring – Filmed

    BMW Individual San Marino Blue Metallic 2023 BMW M3 Touring – Filmed

    Colors are dynamic and full of depth, influenced significantly by lighting. While pictures can serve as a useful reference, they can’t capture the full spectrum of color. Beyond the naked eye, video offers the next best way to appreciate the true nuances of color.

    In today’s video from European Prestige, we find ourselves in awe. Not only is it a BMW Individual San Marino Blue (sanmarinoblau; metallic; B51; BMW) M3, but it’s also a touring version of the model—something BMW enthusiasts have been requesting for decades. Our US audience can only drool over this and hope that one day we will get an M3 Touring stateside. According to the dealership, the M3 is currently “Under Offer” and will likely sell soon.

    Check out the video below and see this BMW Individual San Marino Blue M3 for yourself.

  • Market Find: BMW Individual Phoenix Yellow 325i

    Market Find: BMW Individual Phoenix Yellow 325i

    Our first formal Market Find is somewhat of an oddity, which we find quite fitting.

    This 2004 BMW 325i convertible is not only a lower spec trim level within the E46 generation 3 series playbook, but the original tailor opted for the ever controversial shade of Phoenix Yellow from the range topping M3.

    Life has happened to this example, and the disclosed Rebuilt title is proof of that. But we prefer dreams to be not just in the heads of our compatriots, but also on the road.

    For the $5,500 asked at time of writing, this could just be the cheapest one way ticket to becoming a Tailored Driver.

    Find it here on Facebook Marketplace.

  • BMW M3 MT Final Edition for Japan Celebrates End of Road for Manual Transmission M3

    BMW M3 MT Final Edition for Japan Celebrates End of Road for Manual Transmission M3

    • The last model with manual transmission of the BMW M3
    • Limited to 150 units in Japan
    • Order acceptance starts only on the dedicated website

    [source: BMW Japan]

    BMW Co., Ltd. (President: Masatoshi Hasegawa) is a limited edition car equipped with a manual transmission on the BMW M3 “BMW M3 MT Final Edition (M3 MT) From today until 11:59 p.m. on March 27 this year, orders will be accepted only on the order acceptance website. It will be introduced in Japan, limited to 150 units, and if the number of orders exceeds the limited number, the winner will be determined by the end of May this year by the strict lottery. The car is scheduled to start after the second quarter of this year.

    There are two categories of high-performance machine M models developed by BMW M. One is an M high-performance model that enables full-fledged driving on the circuit, and the other is an M-performance model that incorporates technology cultivated on the circuit to improve driving performance. The limited edition car “BMW M3 MT Final Edition” announced this time will be positioned as an M high-performance model.

    The BMW M3 is a high-performance model with overwhelming driving performance on the circuit, but it is a driving machine that combines practicality in everyday driving in a high dimension as a 4-door model. The limited edition car “BMW M3 MT Final Edition”, which will be created to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the BMW M3’s first victory in the German Touring Car Championship, is a manual trunk that does not normally have a lineup. At the same time, it is a right-hand drive model equipped with a transmission, and at the same time, it is dry when the BMW M3 won the first championship at the German Touring Car Championship, such as dedicated gold-painted wheels and exclusive red accents on the seats. It is a model reminiscent of the racing machine driven by the bar, Roberto Labarria.

    In addition, the BMW M3 MT Final Edition will be the last model to be equipped with a manual transmission.

    Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (including consumption tax)

    ModelManufacturer’s suggested retail price
    BMW M3 MT Final Edition.14,200,000 yuan
    • The above manufacturer’s suggested retail price is the vehicle price that does not include accessory prices, taxes (excluding consumption tax), insurance premiums, and various expenses associated with registration.
    • Right handle, MT specification.
    • The breakdown of the 150-unit limited exterior colors is 50 aluminum white (weißaluminium; metallic; 825; BMW), 50 black sapphire (schwarzsaphir; metallic; 475; BMW), and 50 M-Brooklyn gray (brooklyngrau; metallic; C4P; BMW).
  • The New BMW 3.0 CSL

    The New BMW 3.0 CSL

    As the anniversary year comes to a close, BMW M GmbH is presenting the most exclusive special model the company has ever produced – a masterpiece of engineering embodying the essence from 50 years of racing passion and expressing its historic roots in a legendary model designation. 

    [source: BMW]

    Munich. The BMW 3.0 CSL (fuel consumption combined: 11.0 l/100 km; COemissions combined: 249 g/km according to WLTP; details according to NEDC: – ) combines a unique design with a puristic performance experience in two seats. It conveys to the present day in an extremely focused manner the concept created in the 1970s of applying racetrack technology designed for sheer driving pleasure on the road.

    The BMW 3.0 CSL was developed with the intention of combining the best of five decades of racing expertise from BMW M GmbH in an automobile with a highly emotional aura. All facets of its character – dynamic exterior elegance, a classic sportscar cockpit, intelligent lightweight construction, a straight six-cylinder engine, manual transmission and rear-wheel drive – are based on traditional principles of a BMW M automobile. They complement each other with the help of the latest technology to create the ultimate symbol of fascination for top performance in the style of the brand that has been successful for 50 years. A ride in a BMW 3.0 CSL is therefore not only an exclusive high-performance experience, but also an emotional encounter with the history and the present of the world’s most powerful letter.

    The BMW 3.0 CSL as a limited production run incorporating elaborate craftsmanship.

    The BMW 3.0 CSL is produced in a strictly limited edition. To mark the anniversary, exactly 50 consecutively numbered units of the special model will go on sale. Right from the start, this gives the BMW 3.0 CSL the status of a rarity that will find its place in the vehicle collections of particularly loyal and enthusiastic fans of the BMW M brand.

    The production of all vehicles will take around three months. Each and every one of them is created with absolute dedication to excellence in craftsmanship and precisely coordinated technologies in an elaborate manufacturing process at the external location of the BMW Group Dingolfing plant in Moosthenning, Lower Bavaria. The exclusive interior carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components are produced by hand both in Munich and at the BMW Group component factory in Landshut by specially assigned bodywork specialists.

    A specific process was also conceived for the paintwork of the BMW 3.0 CSL, in which craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology complement each other to provide each individual part with its characteristic colour design. In addition, a team of 30 specially qualified and experienced technicians is responsible for the configuration and assembly of the vehicles. Due to the complexity of the processes in the manufactory, each BMW 3.0 CSL passes through eight assembly cycles at just as many production stations, a procedure that takes up to 10 days in all.

    All in all, the extremely high proportion of individual manual work means that the time required to assemble a BMW 3.0 CSL is many times higher than that of a conventional BMW M automobile. After completion in the manufactory, each vehicle also undergoes a multi-stage quality inspection and approval process at the main Dingolfing plant before it is released for delivery to the customer. The BMW Group Plant Dingolfing is the company’s largest European production site. In addition to several BMW M automobiles, the luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series and body components for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars are produced there.

    The successful touring car – a role model in its time. 

    As the reincarnation of a legendary sports car both for the racetrack and the road, the BMW 3.0 CSL possesses all the characteristics of a puristic car. It embodies the joy of classic driving and an awareness of the traditional roots of BMW M GmbH in a uniquely exclusive form. Its eponymous role model is considered the first automobile to carry the DNA for maximum driving pleasure and passion, an unmistakeable feature of BMW M automobiles to this very day. In the founding year of BMW Motorsport GmbH, it was developed for use in touring car competitions, where it became the most successful racing car of its era.

    The racing version of the historic BMW 3.0 CSL won the European Touring Car Championship during its inaugural season in 1973 – and repeated this title win five more times in succession from 1975 to 1979. Drivers such as Toine Hezemans, Hans-Joachim Stuck, Chris Amon and Niki Lauda left the competition behind at the Nürburgring and numerous other circuits, followed by BMW’s first victories on US circuits as early as 1975. All these successes helped the works racing cars to gain international popularity.

    “Coupe, Sport, Lightweight construction“: New interpretation of a legendary formula.

    The road version of the racing car, which was developed for homologation purposes, became a widely known symbol of inspiring driving pleasure focused on the essentials, especially in its final stage of development. CSL – this combination of letters in the model designation stood for “Coupé, Sport, Leichtbau” (Coupe, Sport, Lightweight), a concise summary of the two-door car’s recipe for success.

    In addition to wide wheel arches, its coupe-shaped body also received an eye-catching aerodynamics package, which included a front spoiler, air bars on the front side panels and a roof spoiler. Completing the design modifications vs. the other coupes in BMW large series was a rear wing that optimised the grip of the rear wheels. It was not approved for road use and therefore lay in the boot when the vehicle was delivered, but nevertheless received much public attention so that the Coupe was given the nickname “Batmobile”.

    With an increased displacement of 3,153 cubic centimetres and a maximum output of 151 kW/206 hp, the most powerful straight six-cylinder engine with direct injection ever used in a BMW model ensured sporty power delivery. The powerful drive system was combined with refined suspension technology. Its unladen weight was just 1,270 kilograms.

    The reduced weight was achieved through comprehensive lightweight construction. The doors were made of aluminium, as were the bonnet and the boot lid, which were supported on filigree retaining rods after opening. Numerous other body components such as the roof, side panels and luggage compartment partition were made of particularly thin sheet metal, and the chrome bumpers were replaced by plastic skirting. Lightweight bucket seats and the omission of insulation material, power steering and electric windows ensured optimal weight reduction. An overall power-to-weight ratio of 6.2 kilograms per horsepower was thus achieved.

    The new BMW 3.0 CSL is the contemporary reinterpretation of all these features anchored in its model designation. Its coupe-shaped body sets traditional accents for sporty elegance and expressive dynamics. Its drive and suspension technology stems from the latest developments for racing cars and high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH. And the intelligent lightweight construction reaches an outstanding level, above all through the extensive use of carbon. The power-to-weight ratio of the BMW 3.0 CSL is a mere 2.9 kilograms per hp.

    As an independent model from BMW M GmbH and despite the limited number of units, the BMW 3.0 CSL has undergone a complete series development process. In addition to the extensive quality and function tests and the driving dynamics tuning test drives under a wide range of conditions from city traffic to country roads and motorways to the race track, the BMW 3.0 CSL has also undergone comprehensive aerodynamic testing. Around 200 working hours were spent on optimising the airflow and aerodynamic balance of the vehicle, including 50 hours in the wind tunnel of the BMW Group’s Aerodynamic Test Centre. In addition, two pre-production vehicles of the BMW 3.0 CSL had to undergo a safety test in the form of a frontal and a side crash test in order to meet road legal requirements.

    Unique, M-typical design, geared to the technical demands of fascinating performance.

    With its classic coupe proportions and a traditional vehicle concept that combines a front engine and manual transmission with rear-wheel drive, the BMW 3.0 CSL follows in the footsteps of its historic ancestor. Distinctive air deflection elements, powerfully shaped wheel arches, a striking rear spoiler and numerous other details are unmistakably based on the design of the legendary coupe from the 1970s.

    At the same time, its appearance is characterised by the principles that have always applied to BMW M automobiles: The specific exterior features are based on the technical requirements in terms of cooling air supply, aerodynamic balance and driving dynamics, which form the basis for highly fascinating performance. In this way, the BMW 3.0 CSL expresses timeless racing passion in an emotional and authentic way.

    Powerful aesthetics pay tribute to the historical ancestor.

    Power and athleticism are signalised by the front end of the BMW 3.0 CSL, which sits low on the road. At its centre is the distinctive BMW kidney grille with a lattice-shaped insert in a diamond structure. Its upright position relates to the front design of its historic ancestor. Like the side window surrounds, the kidney frame is finished in satin aluminium – a design feature that emphasises the special status of the BMW 3.0 CSL. Together with the BMW kidney grille, two generously dimensioned recesses in the front apron, reminiscent of the air intakes on the 1970s model, ensure reliable cooling of the drive and brake systems even in extremely dynamic driving situations. Sculpturally shaped air fins on the bonnet accentuate the classic lines.

    With their flat contours, the headlights create the characteristic focus on the road. The BMW Laser Light headlights shine in yellow, both during the welcome scenario after unlocking the doors and when the low and high beams are activated, thus making reference to successful GT racing cars. This detail is a subtle reference to the strong connection with motorsport and BMW M GmbH’s currently most successful competition vehicle, the BMW M4 GT3, which won both the drivers’ and team championships in the DTM in 2022 and whose power unit is based on the same straight-six engine as the power unit of the BMW 3.0 CSL. The BMW M4 GT3 achieved championship success right at the start of its racetrack career, much like the historic BMW 3.0 CSL, which once won the European Touring Car Championship in its inaugural season.

    Viewed from the side, the long bonnet and wide wheelbase lend the BMW 3.0 CSL an appearance that is both sporty and classically elegant. The brand-typical coupe proportions in a three-box design also contribute to this. Particularly wide, diagonally offset side panels and wide side walls underline the dynamic appearance of the coupe even when stationary, with an air deflector extending along the roof line.

    Wide wheel arches, central locking wheels produced exclusively for the BMW 3.0 CSL’s tyres.

    Muscular wheel arches give indication of the large track widths that contribute significantly to the vehicle’s high cornering dynamics. They offer space for the forged light-alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design, these being 20 inches on the front axle and 21 inches at the rear. With their filigree spokes, a gold-coloured paint finish in the style of the 1970s and a centre lock, they represent a highlight in terms of design and driving dynamics adapted directly from racing. The integration of the model-specific wheels into the pre-assembled axles of the BMW 3.0 CSL is part of the manufacturing process at the BMW Group’s Dingolfing plant. At 930 Nm, the torque applied during the assembly of the centre locks achieves the highest value for a BMW Group production vehicle.

    The forged light-alloy wheels are fitted with Michelin tyres developed exclusively for the BMW 3.0 CSL. They bear the number 50 embossed on the tyre sidewalls, providing another subtle reference to the anniversary of BMW M GmbH, on the occasion of which the special model was designed and built.

    A tail wing in the style of the “Batmobile“.

    The rear view of the BMW 3.0 CSL is also characterised by powerful aesthetics and reinterpreted design features of its ancestor. The most striking feature is the rear wing, which is enclosed at the side and translates the characteristic appearance of the “Batmobile” into a modern design language. Designed to generate additional downforce and thus optimise traction on the rear axle, the air deflector encloses the entire rear section, thus becoming a dominant visual element. For the benefit of aerodynamic balance, it is combined with a strongly pronounced carbon diffuser in the rear apron, thereby optimising airflow in the underbody.

    The four tailpipes of the exhaust system, which are arranged in an arrow shape in the centre of the rear apron and feature a particularly lightweight titanium rear silencer, also provide a striking accent. The rear lights of the BMW 3.0 CSL use innovative lighting technology to generate a fascinating, exclusive night design and a particularly vivid radiance. This is achieved by filigree laser light threads that appear to be free-floating inside the lights and create an expressive 3D effect through precise superimposition.

    Elaborate paintwork in the style of classic racing cars. 

    Right from the very beginning the 1970s, BMW Motorsport GmbH became imprinted in fans’ memories not only thanks to spectacular racing successes, but also through an unmistakable appearance. Just like the competition cars, the drivers’ outfits, the vehicle transporters and all other team equipment featured uniform stripes in blue, purple and red on a white background – a novelty at the time and a globally recognised trademark to this day. The BMW 3.0 CSL picks up on this tradition with a paint finish in Alpine white uni and an elaborately applied stripe decor in the BMW M GmbH colours. The lines on the body effectively reflect the dynamic surfaces, thus bringing to the fore the powerful aesthetics of the coupe even more clearly.

    Both the base colour and the M stripes, known in technical jargon as livery, are applied largely by hand, involving an extremely high level of time and effort. A total of 22 individual parts are painted in a process specially designed for the BMW 3.0 CSL. Particular attention is paid to a highly precise arrangement of the areas of the body surfaces and livery stripes finished in visible carbon. In general, most of the exterior in Alpine white uni comprises carbon components, which are hand-painted by specialists. The high-tech material is only visible in the lettering on the roof and on the rear wing. For this purpose, these areas must be exposed during the painting process. In order to precisely position the livery stripes in the BMW M GmbH colours, the painters use masking by means of laser projection as well as customised contour films.

    Each component with a livery paint finish has a throughput time of six working days. During this time, it completes up to eight paint processes, each with the necessary intermediate work steps such as sanding and masking the colour stripes. This results in a total of 134 paint processes for each vehicle, adding up to a total of 6,700 manual work sequences in the paint shop for the entire small series of the special model.

    The number sequences on the doors and roof of the BMW 3.0 CSL, designed in the style of early racing cars, build a bridge from the past to the present. Their design in the style of racing numbers is based on the historical model of the first BMW M automobile developed for touring car racing, whilst the number 50 refers to the anniversary of BMW M GmbH. Another reminder of the 1970s are the two BMW logos positioned on the C-pillar, hence directly behind the counter-swing of the side window graphic known as the Hofmeister kink.

    The most powerful straight six-cylinder power unit ever used in a road-legal BMW M automobile.

    The BMW 3.0 CSL features the most powerful straight six-cylinder engine ever used in a road-legal BMW M automobile. This is also a tradition: in its final stage of development, the predecessor of the same name marked a new record with an engine output of 151 kW/206 hp – not only for six-cylinder models, but for all BMW production vehicles produced up to that point.

    Since then, the straight six-cylinder engine with M Power has undergone an impressive development. Engines of the same design mobilised an output of 204 kW/277 hp in the BMW M1 as early as 1978 and 250 kW/340 hp in the second-generation BMW M5 from 1991. The fifth-generation BMW M3 was launched in 2014 with a 317 kW/431 hp straight-six engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology.

    The straight six-cylinder engine of the BMW 3.0 CSL possesses the same technological roots as the power unit of the current DTM winning car. The 3.0-litre power unit offers spontaneous high revving thanks to the typical M high-revving concept and comprises, among other things, an extremely rigid crankcase in a sleeveless closed-deck design, a forged lightweight crankshaft and a cylinder head core featuring 3D printing technology. The cooling system and oil supply are also designed for extremely dynamic driving situations. For its championship win in the DTM, the BMW M4 GT3 was powered by a version of the latest straight six-cylinder engine with around 600 hp which, in its version designed for large-scale production in the current models of the BMW M3/BMW M4 series, delivers up to 375 kW/510 hp.

    The version of the drive system with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which was further developed exclusively for the BMW 3.0 CSL, mobilises a maximum output of 412 kW/560 hp. The new record for straight six-cylinder models from BMW M GmbH with road approval underpins the special status of the vehicle. Its engine develops a maximum torque of 550 Nm and fascinates with a linear power delivery up to a maximum speed of 7,200 min-1.

    6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive for particularly intense driving pleasure. 

    To transfer the drive power to the road, the developers of the BMW 3.0 CSL used a concept that has been tried and tested for decades for maximum driving pleasure and intensive interaction between driver and vehicle. The straight six-cylinder engine is coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox whose spread and transmission ratios are ideally matched to the performance characteristics. Precisely defined gear shift travel enables fast and precise gear changing. The gearshift knob made exclusively for the BMW 3.0 CSL protrudes from the centre console and is a luxurious accessory. It immediately arouses anticipation for the manual gearshift, lies snugly in the hand and, with its white surface, the engraved gearshift diagram and the number 50, is reminiscent of the beginnings of BMW M GmbH in the 1970s. A tribute to modern technology is the shift assistant, which uses a connection speed control to ensure slip-free clutch engagement after downshifting when braking for corners. It can be activated or deactivated by the driver.

    In traditional manner, the drive torque is transmitted to the road exclusively via the rear wheels of the BMW 3.0 CSL. For ambitious use on the race track, the driver can use the typical M linear build-up of lateral acceleration forces to steer the vehicle through bends with controlled drift manoeuvres. The Active M Differential in the rear-axle transmission also ensures superior dynamics. If necessary, it prevents torque compensation between the rear wheels and, at the same time, continuously and variably builds up a locking effect of up to 100 percent. The Active M Differential is linked to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and precisely adjusts its locking effect to the respective driving situation. For example, traction is optimised on roads with different friction values for the right and left rear wheels. When accelerating dynamically out of bends, the driver receives noticeable feedback on the grip potential on the rear wheels and can thus optimally dose the use of the accelerator pedal.

    Suspension technology tuned exclusively to each model, including M carbon-ceramic brake system and M Traction Control.

    In the configuration of the suspension technology as well, state-of-the-art technology has been combined with a methodology for the harmonisation of all components that has matured over five decades. The suspension components used in the BMW 3.0 CSL represent the spearhead of development for high-performance sports cars by BMW M GmbH: a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle in M-specific design, an Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, the electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and the M carbon ceramic brake system with adjustable characteristic curves.

    The integrated application of all drive and chassis systems took place during intensive test drives on public roads as well as on race tracks, including the Nürburgring Nordschleife, which has been the ultimate testing ground for all BMW M automobiles for 50 years. Prior to testing, engineers at BMW M GmbH had designed and optimised the digital image of the BMW 3.0 CSL in every detail in a computer-aided design and development process. By incorporating virtual reality and other digital processes, it was possible to accelerate the series development process to the maximum extent. This detailed simulation and tuning process took into account the model-specific dimensions, vehicle weight and axle load distribution, the extremely high rigidity of the body and suspension connections as well as the aerodynamic balance of the BMW 3.0 CSL to ensure from the onset that typical M combination of agility, dynamics and handling precision.

    Powerful deceleration performance, optimised fading stability, outstanding thermal stability and extremely high wear resistance are offered by the M carbon ceramic brake system. It combines six-piston fixed-calliper brakes and ceramic brake discs measuring 400×38 millimetres on the front axle with single-piston fixed-calliper brakes and 380×28-millimetre ceramic brake discs at the rear and features red-painted brake callipers. The M-specific design of the integrated braking system allows two characteristic pedal-feel curves to be displayed, which can be selected in the M Setup menu.

    With the M Traction Control function, the driver can individually set the intervention thresholds of the wheel slip limitation. Ten levels are available for this purpose, and complete deactivation of the driving stability control is also possible via the M Dynamic Mode. The BMW 3.0 CSL is thus perfectly prepared for experiencing puristic performance on the race track.

    Intelligent lightweight construction with maximum use of carbon components. 

    In the BMW 3.0 CSL, the tradition of intelligent lightweight construction, which has been cultivated since the 1970s, is reformulated and reshaped using state-of-the-art technology. To reduce weight in the body and chassis areas, carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used to an exceptionally high extent in addition to the minimal use of insulating material. BMW M GmbH is a pioneer in the use of CFRP in series-produced vehicles. As early as 2004, it equipped a large-series model with a carbon roof for the first time.

    The BMW 3.0 CSL features CFRP components on virtually all bodywork sections. In addition to the roof, bonnet and boot lid, the front and rear aprons are made entirely of carbon. The front and rear side panel attachments, the side sills, the rear diffuser, the rear wing and rear spoiler are also made of the high-tech material. All carbon components are manufactured in small series, mostly by hand and exclusively for the BMW 3.0 CSL.

    In addition, a targeted selection of materials and state-of-the-art design methods also lead to a significant reduction in the weight of other vehicle components. The roof spoiler of the BMW 3.0 CSL is made of glass fibre reinforced plastic. The titanium rear silencer of the BMW 3.0 CSL is around 4.3 kilograms lighter than a conventional steel component. The cast aluminium precision struts in the engine compartment, which connect the suspension strut domes to each other and to the front end, have a geometry that has been precisely matched to the forces acting in different driving situations. With the aid of numerical models agility and steering precision has been optimized with a minimum of material and weight.

    Puristic sports car cockpit with M carbon full bucket seats.

    Also, in the interior of the BMW 3.0 CSL the use of carbon and other lightweight construction measures emphasise the puristic sports car characteristics. Instead of additional seats, the rear offers a storage compartment with two integrated helmet compartments. CFRP trim in the door panels and reduced acoustic insulation also contribute to the extremely sporty flair. The driver and front passenger sit in M Carbon full bucket seats, which convey a highly emotional and inimitable racing feeling every kilometre of the way. The diagonal connections between the seat surface and the backrest are reminiscent of the construction principle of the lightweight seats featured in the historic model. Seat height and inclination can be adjusted exclusively via a three-stage screw linkage in a workshop. The longitudinal position can be varied manually using a lever at the front edge of the seat. In addition, the M Carbon full bucket seats offer removable headrest inserts.

    Over and above that, the interior of the BMW 3.0 CSL presents itself as a sports car cockpit that is puristic and exclusive. Black Alcantara seat surfaces and M seat belts are combined with an M Alcantara steering wheel, an anthracite roof liner, black Alcantara and matt carbon surfaces. Contrast stitching and other accents in white correspond with the exterior paintwork of the BMW 3.0 CSL, the model lettering of which is embossed into both the door sill trims and the seat surfaces. The white gearshift knob symbolises the classic form of interaction between driver and vehicle when changing gear. The red start/stop button and the likewise red M buttons on the steering wheel are available for activating the engine and for direct access to the vehicle’s overall setup. The matt interior trims in a carbon fibre finish feature sequential numbering for each of the 50 units available. This marking, documented in the interior from #01/50 to #50/50, corresponds in each case to the final digits of the suspension number, thus representing a clearly visible and authentic reference to the individual vehicle identity.

  • BMW and Kith Start Season 2 of Successful Collaboration with the BMW i4 M50.

    BMW and Kith Start Season 2 of Successful Collaboration with the BMW i4 M50.

    • Highly limited edition of the fully electric Performance BMW M vehicle with unique Kith features
    • Historic BMW 1602 from 1972 electrified and adorned with design details by Ronnie Fieg
    • Lifestyle collection available worldwide in Kith stores and online

    [source: BMW]

    Munich. More than just electrically charged: the BMW i4 M50 (electricity consumption in kWh/100 km: – (NEDC) / 22.5–18.0 (WLTP); electric range (WLTP) in km: 416–520) is not just the first fully electric M automobile, but also the second BMW M vehicle that New York designer Ronnie Fieg has exclusively designed as part of the collaboration between his brand, Kith, and BMW M GmbH – inside and out. Only seven BMW i4 M50 by Kith vehicles will be produced for the public. One of those is the only vehicle within this collaboration being auctioned to a global public audience. To mark the limited edition, Kith is selling a 51-piece collection comprising apparel and accessories, inspired by the colours of the Kith Vitality Green (kithvitalitygrün; metallic; P9H; BMW) vehicle paint and BMW Individual Caramel Merino vehicle leather in its stores all over the world and online

    A symbol of the transformation of BMW in the age of electric vehicles.

    In BMW M’s 50th anniversary year, a historic vehicle is bridging the gap between the past and the electrified present. Ronnie Fieg as an automotive enthusiast has transformed a 1972 BMW 1602 into a contemporary electric car. This is based on the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, where two BMW 1602s, converted into electric cars, were used at various long-distance competitions as accompanying and camera cars by the organisation committee. This was the start of a pioneering, forward-looking evolution of electrified vehicles at BMW. To commemorate the debut of electrification at BMW, BMW and Kith Season 2 presents the 1972 BMW 1602 Elektro by Ronnie Fieg.

    The unique 1972 BMW 1602 Elektro by Ronnie Fieg will be handed over to the designer by the BMW Group. He already owns an impressive collection of BMW vehicles, including a legendary BMW E30 M3 by Kith stemming from Season 1 of the collaboration. His passion for BMW was sparked as a boy by his grandfather; the collaboration with BMW M means this comes full circle for him. Ronnie Fieg founded his Kith label in 2011. The collaboration between the BMW and Kith brands started in 2020 with the design of a BMW M4 Competition Coupé by Ronnie Fieg. The 150 editions of the exclusive BMW M4 Competition × Kith were sold out in less than 30 minutes.

    A combination of sportiness and aesthetics. 

    The success of the first brand collaboration with Kith led to this second edition, where electromobility is the focus. As the first fully electric M model, the BMW i4 M50 can be called the “Brand Shaper”. It has the well-regarded M DNA and as a BEV shows the responsible direction that BMW is going in. The 1972 BMW 1602 tells the story of the very first electrified BMW, which came onto the market 50 years ago and which is part of the brand’s high-performance segment. The sportiness of the lifestyle and streetwear label Kith is a perfect match for the BMW M. Ronnie Fieg gives both models a new aesthetic with his design.

    BMW goes Kith Vitality Green.

    For the first time ever, BMW is naming a new colour after a brand partner: Kith Vitality Green is a rich, dark green that is not available on a serial BMW, as it is limited to this exclusive collaboration. New logos merged with each other are a hallmark of the various Kith partnerships with globally famous companies. BMW changed its brand emblem for a collaboration partner for the first time two years ago. The well-known BMW emblem was again altered this time: an additional ring in the colour Kith Vitality Green was added around the brand logo that adorns the hood of the BMW i4 M50 by Kith. The green ring lists the partnership, model and year as well as the fact that it is an electric car. The logo on the hood of the 1972 BMW 1602 by Ronnie Fieg looks different again: the BMW letters have been swapped for Kith. A similar logo in black and white with the subline “Elektro-Auto” can be found as an engraving on the lid of the cup holder in the BMW i4 M50 by Kith.

    The interior goes Caramel.

    Kith Vitality Green is the colour in which all vehicles of the collaboration are painted. While the exterior is an exquisite green, the full-grain merino leather interior is in the colour Caramel. In the 1972 BMW 1602 Elektro by Ronnie Fieg, the leather of the seats is embossed with the Kith lettering, as are the leather inserts in the footwells for the driver and front passenger. The logo altered to feature the Kith lettering instead of BMW can also be found on the centre holes of the rims.

    The interior of the BMW i4 M50 by Kith is also particularly harmoniously coordinated in Caramel. The knee bolster, steering column, seat and side panelling, as well as the lower part of the A and B posts are all upholstered in merino leather. The front and rear floor mats are also trimmed in caramel-coloured leather and embroidered with the M logo, which has been changed to Kith, and the M stripes. Kith lettering in a box design is embossed on the headrests as well as the front centre armrest. “KITH Exclusive Edition” has been laser-engraved into the trim.

    Technology and luxury in the limited edition.

    The technology has been taken over from the BMW i4 M50, which combines the innovative power of the BMW M with that of the BMW i for the first time. The BMW i4 M50 with its fully electric powertrain fed by two BMW M eDrive motors achieves a powerful 400 kW (544 hp) in Sport Boost mode and offers a dynamism typical of a BMW M in an as-yet-unseen edition, which takes it from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. It is locally emission-free and has a reach of up to 520 kilometres according to WLTP. As the first purely electric Gran Coupé from BMW M, this extraordinary vehicle creates a class of its own and proves itself for everyday use too, thanks to its impressive reach, luxurious spaciousness and intelligent networking.

    In addition to the standard equipment in the BMW i4 M50 and specific scope of the Kith collaboration, the model is equipped with a few special additions as standard. Alongside the adaptive M chassis, these include the M sports brakes with red brake callipers, the M aerodynamic package and the BMW Individual Shadow Line lights. The Professional and Plus driving assistants also contribute to the luxurious driving feeling, as well as the electric sliding glass roof, the fine oak wood trim and the M high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. The features are rounded off by the Harman/Kardon surround sound audio system, which provides the perfect soundtrack to the joy and driving experience in the BMW i4 M50 by Kith.