[Video] G80 BMW M3 Competition goes against E46 BMW M3 CSL

A remarkable driver’s car in the scene and absolutely one of the all-time great Bimmers – the new G80-generation BMW M3. It certainly earned a reputation for itself. However, in this video, we test how far the G80 can compare to the greatest driving M3 of all time, the E46 M3 CSL.

Car Magazine has a new video of this exact comparison. In that video, the new G80 M3 Competition goes against the E46 M3 CSL on the road. This is to see whether the new car can match its iconic predecessor.

Above and beneath the skin, the G80 BMW is a totally monstrous car. It carries a 3.0-litre twin-turbo I6, pumping out 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. This number makes the E46 M3 CSL seem positively puny. While the classic M3 CSL has a 3.2-litre naturally-aspirated inline-six, delivering 360 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. But, when you think about it, there’s more to a great driver’s car than its power, right? Like, its handling performance for one.

I think enthusiasts will agree without a doubt – the E46 M3 CSL is the better car to drive. It has steering that is more beautifully weighted and balanced, while the chassis feels lightweight and communicative. Ultimately, its engine creates a unique noise that the G80’s can only wish to achieve. It truly is an iconic driver’s car that will transcend through many generations.

However, we can’t also deny the familial lineage that can be felt when driving the new M3. It is true, the handling performance goes beneath its predecessors, but you can feel the same sort of driving ethos in both cars. We can say that the technology and expectations of the driver model changed, but not its objective.

From a pure driver’s car standpoint, the E46 M3 CSL is ahead of its handling. However, it’s unfair to compare the two with the E46 M3 CSL ceasing to exist. But the new M3 Competition is worthy of its M3 badge and this video shows you why.