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ACL GTR BMW CSL 3.0

ClassicAC Legends
480 hp
Horsepower
1100 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
1973
Year

BMW 3.0 CSL (Classic Touring / Group 2)

The BMW 3.0 CSL is one of the most iconic homologation specials of the 1970s — a lightweight, rear-drive German touring car built to dominate Europe’s most competitive saloon racing scene. Nicknamed the “Batmobile” for its dramatic aero package, the CSL became a symbol of BMW’s rise in motorsport, blending straight-six character with razor-sharp chassis balance.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 3.5L naturally aspirated inline-6, mechanical fuel injection

  • Total Output: ~480 hp

  • Redline: ~7,500–8,000 rpm

  • Transmission: 4-speed manual or racing dog-leg 5-speed, depending on setup/version

  • Weight: ~1,100 kg

  • Dimensions: ~4,660 mm long × 1,690 mm wide × 1,340 mm tall | Wheelbase 2,625 mm

  • Tires: Period-style slicks or historic racing compounds on lightweight alloy wheels

  • Brakes: Ventilated discs with race calipers

  • Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The BMW 3.0 CSL is a raw, lightweight classic that lives on driver commitment. It doesn’t have modern aero, electronic assistance, or huge tire grip — instead, it rewards momentum, smooth steering, and disciplined throttle application. Compared with modern machinery, it feels lively and mechanical, with a chassis that rotates willingly when balanced correctly but will bite back if you overdrive the rear tires.

Engine & Sound: The big BMW straight-six is the star of the show, with a deep mechanical snarl that hardens into a high-revving race howl as the revs climb. Throttle response is immediate, and the power delivery feels progressive rather than explosive, making it easier to meter traction out of slower corners. In sim, the induction and exhaust note give it a wonderfully analog, old-school touring car personality.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Agile for its era, with strong rotation on lift and trail braking. Requires patience to keep it settled.

  • Traction: Modest rear grip by modern standards; wheelspin is easy to provoke if you get greedy on exit.

  • Braking: Solid but not forgiving — the car responds best to earlier, smoother braking points.

  • Top Speed: Strong in a straight line for a historic touring car, especially on tracks where its long gearing can stretch its legs.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it like a momentum car. Focus on maintaining speed through the corner rather than forcing the front end, and use small steering inputs to keep the rear calm. It shines on flowing, technical circuits where driver finesse matters more than outright grip.

Livery & Aesthetics: The CSL is unforgettable in “Batmobile” trim, with its oversized spoilers, lightweight bodywork, and unmistakable long-nose BMW proportions. Even without the full aero package, it has a purposeful, period-correct motorsport presence that looks fantastic in historic grids.

Whether you're chasing lap times or just enjoying the sensation of a proper 1970s race car, the BMW 3.0 CSL delivers a beautifully old-school experience — demanding, charismatic, and hugely rewarding when you get it right.