BMW has officially ceased production of the legendary M3 CS after the most successful sales period in the model’s history, with the final unit rolling off the Munich production line this week. The track-focused sedan, which commanded a £112,000 starting price in the UK, has become the fastest-selling M3 variant ever produced.
BMW M3 CS Production Numbers Exceed All Expectations
Originally planned as a limited run of 1,200 units globally, BMW ultimately produced 2,847 M3 CS models due to overwhelming demand from enthusiasts and collectors. The German manufacturer extended production twice throughout 2024 to meet orders that poured in from 47 countries.
“The M3 CS response has been extraordinary,” said Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We’ve never seen demand like this for a track-oriented M car. Every unit produced found a buyer within weeks of allocation.”
What Made the M3 CS Special
The CS variant delivered 543 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, making it the most powerful M3 ever produced. Key performance upgrades included:
- Carbon fiber hood, roof, and rear spoiler reducing weight by 75kg
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as standard equipment
- Adaptive M suspension with track-specific damper tuning
- Exclusive Frozen M Orange and Frozen Dark Grey paint options
- 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.2 seconds
The M3 CS achieved a Nürburgring lap time of 7:25.82, making it 8.3 seconds faster than the standard M3 Competition around the demanding 12.9-mile circuit.
Market Impact and Resale Values
Early examples of the M3 CS are already commanding premium prices on the used market, with some low-mileage examples selling for £140,000+ in the UK – representing a 25% increase over original MSRP.
Specialist dealer Dick Lovett BMW reports receiving daily inquiries for M3 CS inventory, despite having no remaining allocation. “It’s reminiscent of the E46 M3 CSL situation from 2003,” explains sales manager James Mitchell. “Customers who missed out are desperately seeking any available units.”
What’s Next for BMW M Division
With M3 CS production concluded, BMW M is shifting focus toward electrification and the upcoming G90 M3 generation expected in late 2026. The next M3 will likely feature hybrid assistance, though BMW promises to maintain the characteristic inline-six engine configuration.
Industry insiders suggest BMW may introduce a limited-run M3 CSL variant before the current G80 generation ends production, potentially featuring even more aggressive aerodynamics and weight reduction measures.
Collector Car Status Confirmed
Classic car valuation experts at Hagerty have already classified the M3 CS as a “future collectible,” citing its limited production run, exceptional performance credentials, and the end of the naturally aspirated M era approaching.
“The M3 CS represents the pinnacle of internal combustion M car development,” notes Hagerty UK valuation specialist Sarah Johnson. “As BMW transitions to electrification, models like this become increasingly significant to collectors.”
The final M3 CS, finished in Frozen Dark Grey with the Competition Package, was purchased by a private collector in Germany who plans to donate the vehicle to the BMW Museum after five years of ownership.
With BMW’s electrification timeline accelerating and stricter emissions regulations looming, the M3 CS may well be remembered as the last purely internal combustion masterpiece from Munich’s M division – making those 2,847 examples even more precious to driving enthusiasts worldwide.
