BMW reveals the M3 CS Handschalter, a manual, rear drive farewell model
BMW M is marking the end of the sixth generation M3 with a special edition called the M3 CS Handschalter. Built for the North American market, the sedan combines the lighter CS body, a six speed manual gearbox and rear wheel drive.
The first manual M3 CS
The BMW M3 CS Handschalter will be the first M3 CS offered with a six speed manual gearbox. It drops the usual CS formula of all wheel drive and an automatic transmission, putting the emphasis instead on driver engagement.
The name Handschalter translates rather neatly as manual shifter. In practice, this is the enthusiast focused final version before production of the current M3 generation comes to an end.
Less power, less weight
The 3.0 litre twin turbo straight six produces 473 hp and 550 Nm of torque. That is less than the automatic M3 CS, but here the engine works with rear wheel drive and a manual gearbox. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph, or 97 km/h, takes 4.1 seconds, while top speed reaches 290 km/h.
BMW reduced weight with carbon fibre reinforced plastic body panels, forged wheels, a titanium exhaust and M Carbon bucket seats. With ceramic brakes fitted, the car saves almost 75 lb, or about 34 kilograms, compared with a standard M3.
Price starts above $100,000
BMW will begin production of the M3 CS Handschalter in July. First deliveries are expected in the autumn. The base price in the US is $107,100, around €99,000, plus a $1,350, around €1,250, destination and handling fee.
The special edition will be sold in very limited numbers, although BMW did not disclose an exact production figure. Buyers can choose between two BMW Individual colours with historical weight behind them: Imola Red and Techno Violet metallic.
The point of the M3 CS Handschalter is clear. BMW is giving the current combustion engined M3 an analogue, consciously old school closing note. It is not the fastest M3 CS. It is the most mechanical.
