20.03.2025According to many enthusiasts, one of the most beautiful BMW M3s of all time

In today's blog article, we're devoting ourselves to two classics whose story began almost 25 years ago. The BMW M3 of the E46 series first saw the light of day in the mid-2000s. The difference from the less powerful models of the 3 Series can be recognized by the bulge on the hood, the standard 18-inch rims, the wider wheel arches, and, of course, the sound of the 343 hp, high-revving inline six-cylinder engine. Three years later, BMW launched a special model, the M3 CSL. CSL stands for "Coupé Sport Lightweight Construction." As the name suggests, the CSL is less about getting from point A to point B in comfort, but rather about excelling on winding roads and racetracks. The use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic saved weight in several areas of the vehicle.

The label Solido produced both models in scale 1:18. The M3 model year 2000 is available in Phoenix Yellow, and the special CSL model is available in silver grey metallic. Both models, available in our shop, feature steerable front wheels and opening doors. In addition to the faithfully reproduced interior, Solido has also faithfully reproduced all other vehicle details in the models. This gives model car collectors the opportunity to add one of the most purist road sports cars to their collection.

The development of the E46 series began in the late 1990s. The goal was to find a worthy successor to the E36 series. As with every model series change, the driving experience was to be made even more emotional. Individual throttle bodies for more direct throttle response, a double-VANOS system for optimized valve timing, and the high revving ability of the inline six-cylinder engine up to 8,000 rpm are the building blocks with which BMW tackled this goal. Many BMW enthusiasts today describe the E46 M3 as one of the best M3s of all time – with its perfect design, pure driving feel, and iconic styling.

In addition to weight savings, the M3 CSL, with 360 hp, boasts almost 17 hp more than its slightly heavier sibling. Visually, the CSL is recognizable by the modified front apron, which features a distinctive hole for airbox ventilation. The BMW logo on the CSL is slightly modified, the roof is made of carbon fiber, and the wheels come standard with 19-inch rims. The interior also clearly shows the changes compared to the standard M3. The standard sports seats have been replaced with bucket seats, and the steering wheel is covered in Alcantara as standard. At 1385 kg, the M3 CSL is exactly 150 kg lighter than the M3.

BMW M3 (E46) 2000 Phoenix Yellow 1:18 Solido, RRP €54.99, item-no.: 421181700

BMW M3 (E46) CSL 2003 Silver Grey Metallic 1:18 Solido, RRP €54.99, item-no.: 421181410

Products

	BMW M3 (E46) year 2000 phoenix yellow 1:18 Solido	49,95 €
	BMW M3 (E46) CSL year of construction 2003 silver-grey metallic 1:18 Solido	49,95 €