This Incredible Photo Proves Just How Huge The Intake Is On The BMW M3 CSL

While detailing a lightweight M3 CSL, Richard Tipper of Perfection Valet shared this brilliant photo

18 May 2015

Washing off the track day grime. #BMW M3 CSL. #Want pic.twitter.com/ug4PrLlVSK
— Richard Tipper (@perfectionvalet) August 23, 2014

Being a professional detailer is a pretty awesome job. Yes, it’s a lot of hard work, but not many trades let you get up close and personal with so many awesome cars. Richard Tipper of Perfection Valet is one of the UK’s top detailers, and his Twitter feed is packed full of everything from exotic supercars to classic racers and everything in between.

Just to give you some indication as to how huge the intake is to the carbon airbox on the M3 CSL. #LargeLatte #Howl pic.twitter.com/U6jDOpRwp6
— Richard Tipper (@perfectionvalet) August 23, 2014

The E46 BMW M3 CSL you see above is a case in point. Only 1400 of these lightweight super coupes were made, with BMW strategically stripping weight out of the standard M3, while retaining its weight balance. The CSL is 1385kg, 110kg lighter than the standard M3, thanks to the removal of unnecessary luxuries inside and body panels made of carbonfibre-reinforced polymer.

The lightweight mods also made their way into the 355bhp 3.2-litre straight-six engine. Upgraded parts include a lightweight exhaust manifold, thinner exhaust piping, modified valve and camshaft timing - and the massive high-flow carbonfibre air intake you see above. So big it’ll fit a large cup of coffee… the more you know!