Highlights Stunning example of most sought-after E46 Comprehensive history One owner for 22 years Recent main dealer Inspection II service Immaculate inside and out Overview While all versions of the BMW ‘E46’ 3 Series are great cars, and the M3 especially so, there’s one derivative that’s spoken of in hushed tones by fans of the marque – and that’s the M3 CSL.

Unveiled in 2003, the CSL – an abbreviation for “Coupé Sport Leichtbau” or “Coupe Sport Lightweight” – was a limited-edition, track-focused development of the already magnificent E46 M3.

Only 1,383 were made, of which 422 were right-hand-drive UK-spec cars.

The key to its brilliance was an advanced weight-reduction programme that was significantly more than just taking out unnecessary mass.

Instead, composite materials were used, including a carbon fibre roof, rear bulkhead and boot floor.

Other lightweighting measures consisted of thinner glass, a stripped-out interior and lighter suspension components, giving the car a ke...