Which Is The Better German Sports Car?

In 2023, BMW’s high performance M division introduced the M3 CS, a more powerful and lighter version of the four-door M3 Competition, labeled as the Competition Sports model. This raised a challenge to another recent M series release, the 2023 M4 CSL, where ‘CSL’ means Coupe Sport Lightweight, indicating it’s a lighter and sportier two-door M4. It leaves us wondering which of the two is the better sports car. The gearheads at Carwow decided to settle this debate with a race.

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BMW M3 CS Dominates The BMW M4 In A Drag Race

Specs Comparison

When comparing the extensive specs, it’s clear that determining the winner in this race isn’t going to be straightforward. The M3 CS and the M4 CSL both share the same engine and power output. It should be noted that the specs provided are for those of the European-release of both cars, it may or may not be the same in the USA market. The M3 CS gains an edge with its all-wheel-drive system, while the M4 CSL relies on rear-wheel drive. However, the M3 CS is noticeably heavier, which evens the playing field on paper. The only way to settle this rivalry is through actual drag races.

Carwow’s team arranged a head-to-head showdown, placing the M3 CS in striking Isle Of Man Green Metallic attire alongside the Brooklyn Grey-clad M4 CSL. Behind the wheel of the M3 CS is Matt Wattson, while Yianni Charalambous commands the M4 CSL.

The race unfolds in a best-of-five series, with both the M3 CS and M4 CSL squaring off in a standard quarter-mile race. The M3 CS, in an almost teasing fashion, warms up by performing donuts around the M4 CSL.

In an unexpected twist, Matt Wattson in the M3 CS quietly opted not to engage the car’s launch control system, sticking with rear-wheel drive mode. This choice significantly impacted the M3 CS’ driving dynamics, as the launch control system stayed dormant. The race commences with the M4 CSL taking a commendable lead over the M3 CS, securing the initial victory.

With the score at 1-0, the M3 CS persists in using the rear-wheel drive mode for the second race. However, the outcome echoes the first race, with the M4 CSL launching more effectively and clinching victory decisively. This surprising turn leaves Yianni in the M4 CSL quite taken aback, and the M4 CSL extends its lead to 2-0.

The third race becomes a pivotal moment for the M3 CS. Matt decides to switch to the M3 CS’s all-wheel-drive mode. As the race unfolds, the M3 CS surges ahead and maintains its lead over the M4 CSL. It achieves a superior launch, a missing ingredient in the first two races, keeping the M3 CS in the competition at 2-1.

The fourth race follows the same script as the third. The M3 CS outperforms the M4 CSL in terms of launch and acceleration, securing a significant victory. Yianni was visibly frustrated while driving the M4 CSL.

In the deciding battle, the M3 CS proves to be unstoppable. It’s a straightforward domination against the M4 CSL. The M4 CSL concedes defeat, largely due to the game-changing all-wheel-drive capability of the M3 CS. The M3 CS covers the quarter mile in its fastest time of 11.1 seconds, while the M4 CSL closely trails with a time of 11.5 seconds.

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The M4 CSL Is Superior In The Rolling Race

While the M3 CS showed its dominance in drag races, a different story unfolded in the rolling races for these distinguished BMW M models. In these half-mile rolling races, where all-wheel drive and launch control didn’t come into play, the M4 CSL emerged as the clear victor.

In the first race, both cars ran in their most efficient modes, with the M3 CS set to automatic. But it was a decisive win for the M4 CSL, leaving the M3 CS far behind.

The second race didn’t favor the M3 CS either. This time, both cars engaged their sportiest modes, with third gear selected. Although the race was closely fought, the M4 CSL maintained its lead.

In the ultimate showdown, the M3 CS once again succumbed to the might of the M4 CSL. Matt had to accept defeat, awed by the rolling prowess of the M4 CSL. Yianni, at the wheel of the M4 CSL, not only regained his confidence but also secured a comprehensive victory over the M3 CS.

While the M3 CS showcased its prowess with all-wheel drive and launch control in drag races, the M4 CSL proved itself to be an unstoppable force in the thrilling rolling races.

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Carbon-Ceramic Disc Brakes Can Tame The M3 CS And The M4 CSL

In a thrilling showdown between the M3 CS and the M4 CSL, each car had its moment of glory. The M3 CS triumphed in the drag races, while the M4 CSL claimed victory in the rolling race. However, Carwow sought to settle the score by putting their stopping power to the ultimate test.

Both the M4 CS and the M4 CSL come equipped with 15.7-inch vented, cross-drilled carbon-ceramic disc brakes in the front and 15-inch versions in the rear, according to BMW USA specifications. Impressively, the M3 CS showcased its remarkable braking prowess with a 100-0 mph stopping distance of 295 feet. Meanwhile, the M4 CSL achieved the same feat in just 279 feet.

Carwow devised a unique brake test, wherein both cars accelerated from 0 to 100 mph before Matt and Yianny hit the brakes with full force. The result was a synchronized spectacle, as both the M4 CS and the M4 CSL skidded to a stop in unison, highlighting BMW’s exceptional braking capabilities.

Although there is no definitive winner in this test, the Carwow team ultimately awarded the overall victory to the M3 CS.

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The M3 CS Or The M4 CSL: Which One Should You Be Buying?

When comparing the M3 CS and M4 CSL, it goes beyond their performance; practicality for everyday use is a crucial aspect to consider.

The M3 CS, essentially a souped-up M3 Competition xDrive, gets the Club Sport Treatment, while the M4 CSL is BMW’s ultimate high-speed iteration of the M4.

Starting with the M3 CS, it’s a front-engine sedan available in both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive variants. It comfortably seats four passengers with its four doors. On the other hand, the M4 CSL is a two-seater coupe, featuring two doors. In terms of cargo space, the M3 CS offers a slightly more practical option with 13 cubic feet of storage, while the M4 CSL can hold up to 12 cubic feet.

Under the hood, both cars share the same 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the EPA estimates the M4 CSL can achieve a combined 18 mpg. The EPA is yet to verify the 2023 M3 CS, it is expected to be kinder at 22 mpg.

Price also plays a significant role in this comparison. The M3 CS comes with a price tag of up to $133,000, which includes all available upgrades. In contrast, the M4 CSL is the pricier option, costing $146,000, inclusive of all available upgrades. Therefore, the M4 CSL is the more expensive choice between the two.