Dear Forza,
With the new 2022 BMW M4 CSL having just been released, myself and many other fans of the CSL badge feel now is the right time to introduce 3 very special BMW models into the Forza franchise.
For those who aren’t familiar with the origin of the CSL acronym (which stands for “Coupe Sport Lightweight”), it all started in the 1970’s when BMW launched the 3.0 CSL, under the iconic E9 generation. (Seen above.) The 3.0 CSL model is considered the most successful touring car of its era. This lightweight E9 coupe was available both as a street and racing-prepared model. It brought several firsts for the brand. The 3.0 CSL was the first BMW to have been powered by a four-valve six-cylinder inline engine and featured a prototype anti-lock braking system. In its most powerful iteration, the 3.0 CSL boasted a peak output of 800 hp. This meant the E9 coupe featured some clever-for-the-time lightweight technologies. The doors and lids were made of aluminium and the five-speed gearbox featured a magnesium housing. Overall weight was reduced up to an impressive 1,092 kg or 2,408 lbs in the racing car.
After production ended of the E9 generation in 1975, the “CSL” was revived in 2003, with the advent of the pure-bred BMW M3 CSL under the E46 model series. (Seen below.)
The roof, centre console and door panels were made out of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic along with the air-intake box in the engine bay, which made a glorious sound as the car sped towards any roadside spectator. Unnecessary equipment, such as air conditioning and a stereo system, were also thrown out to ensure a low weight and increase in performance for the 360hp coupe. All 1,383 units built were sold in a matter of months, proving that the E46 M3 CSL was a both popular and exclusive choice among fans.
Since 2003, no other series BMW model wore the CSL title, that was until this year when BMW unveiled the 2022 BMW M4 CSL. (Seen below.)
Celebrating BMW M’s 50th birthday, the company has once again fused old-school racing passion with innovative technology. 550hp is developed by the M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW M4 CSL – which is delivered exclusively with rear-wheel drive for the ultimate performance experience. It’s not just faster and more focused than the M4 on which it’s based, but also much more rewarding to drive where it counts.
I hope this short article has carried across the love and passion, myself and many others share for these cars. We sure would love to see them in Forza Horizon 5 and future games to come.
Sincerely
ZingyStig