In a recent auction by RM Sotheby’s, the 2023 BMW 3.0 CSL has made it in the history books as one of the most expensive BMWs ever sold, fetching an impressive €1,017,500, equivalent to $1,114,167 at the time of the sale. This eye-watering price tag has sparked discussions about whether the car is truly worth such a princely sum.
BMW initially charged a hefty amount for the 3.0 CSL, reportedly exceeding $850,000 in certain markets. The justification for this high cost lies in the incorporation of BMW’s most potent straight-six engine to date and the showcase of meticulous hand assembly. However, these factors prompt the question: what else contributed to this staggering selling price?
Under the hood, the 3.0 CSL boasts a 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six S58 engine, similar to the one found in the M4 CSL, producing an impressive 552 horsepower – a modest increase of nine horses. The power is transferred to the rear wheels exclusively via a six-speed manual transmission, a feature that adds to the car’s allure. The wheels, with their center-locking mechanism and bespoke rubber, also contribute to the unique appeal of the 3.0 CSL, although similar wheels are available on other M models at a comparably shocking price.
Despite the underlying 4 Series platform, the 3.0 CSL’s astronomical price tag suggests a strong market appetite for exclusive, high-performance vehicles. Deliveries of this model began only recently, around the middle of the year, and this particular auctioned example had a mere 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) on the odometer, remaining unregistered. This low mileage further underscores the exclusivity of the vehicle and sets a precedent for future sales of the 3.0 CSL.
Looking ahead, it appears that this auction may not be an isolated event, as BMW is expected to release more low-volume specials in the near future. With buyers likely to capitalize on the demand for such exclusive models, the trend of fetching high prices in auctions seems set to continue. The 3.0 CSL’s success in the market emphasizes the allure of limited-edition, high-performance vehicles, transcending the underlying model’s more commonplace origins.
Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a car enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that go beyond the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design with his professional precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the site both sharp and forward-thinking.
