I had a CSL for a year before my M6 which I've had for two months. The M6 is not as well balanced as the CSL and obviously not as light making it not as quick through the twisties. However the M6 does handle very well in the context of being a GT first and sports car second.
In terms of acceleration, the CSL is a tad tame below 5000 revs. You really need to get the right gear in the CSL to get the action. The M6 is simply ballistic. You get the low down torque but you don't lose the reward from finding the right cog to give you a sledgehammer of shove. The difference is much more apparent as the speed increases. Whereas the M6 would marginally beat the CSL at low speeds, it would leave the CSL way behind at motorway speeds. The CSL engine noise sounds 'boy racer' whereas the M6 makes a noise suitable for James Bond films.
Behind the wheel of the M6 feels perfect - seats are great, driving position is great and piano black trim with full black leather create a sense of occasion not present in other BMW's.
The other big difference is SMG II vs SMG III. The newer software is more refined, being better at matching engine speed to road speed on changes. The clunking noises coming from the CSL gear change are muted but still present in the M6. The gear change is slightly slower in SMG III.
If it's fun you are after, you will have more fun in the CSL. If you want a daily drive that gives refinement and are prepared to trade in some of the fun to get it, the M6 is the way to go.
I don't miss the CSL as I think I've found my true home in the M6. Its balance of refinement, handling, understated looks and fantastic engine noises make it one of a kind. The M button tranforms everything from supple GT to firm and very responsive making it a true Jeckyl and Hyde.
You need to drive the M6 to discover it has an 'X' factor where everything works together to make the car feel very special.
I can't see a car on the market that can top the M6 for me. The Astons are too 'look at me' and lose out on power and questionable reliability. The Porsches are too cramped and lack GTness. Mercedes AMG offerings are too soft, lacking in driver involvement. Perhaps the forthcoming Jag XKR might top it?
I had a CSL for a year before my M6 which I've had for two months. The M6 is not as well balanced as the CSL and obviously not as light making it not as quick through the twisties. However the M6 does handle very well in the context of being a GT first and sports car second.
In terms of acceleration, the CSL is a tad tame below 5000 revs. You really need to get the right gear in the CSL to get the action. The M6 is simply ballistic. You get the low down torque but you don't lose the reward from finding the right cog to give you a sledgehammer of shove. The difference is much more apparent as the speed increases. Whereas the M6 would marginally beat the CSL at low speeds, it would leave the CSL way behind at motorway speeds. The CSL engine noise sounds 'boy racer' whereas the M6 makes a noise suitable for James Bond films.
Behind the wheel of the M6 feels perfect - seats are great, driving position is great and piano black trim with full black leather create a sense of occasion not present in other BMW's.
The other big difference is SMG II vs SMG III. The newer software is more refined, being better at matching engine speed to road speed on changes. The clunking noises coming from the CSL gear change are muted but still present in the M6. The gear change is slightly slower in SMG III.
If it's fun you are after, you will have more fun in the CSL. If you want a daily drive that gives refinement and are prepared to trade in some of the fun to get it, the M6 is the way to go.
I don't miss the CSL as I think I've found my true home in the M6. Its balance of refinement, handling, understated looks and fantastic engine noises make it one of a kind. The M button tranforms everything from supple GT to firm and very responsive making it a true Jeckyl and Hyde.
You need to drive the M6 to discover it has an 'X' factor where everything works together to make the car feel very special.
I can't see a car on the market that can top the M6 for me. The Astons are too 'look at me' and lose out on power and questionable reliability. The Porsches are too cramped and lack GTness. Mercedes AMG offerings are too soft, lacking in driver involvement. Perhaps the forthcoming Jag XKR might top it?
I have a M3 CSL and an M5. They are both great cars. I love the CSL for the pure driving experience and even though it is slower than the M5 it feels faster. The CSL is not an everyday car whereas the M5 is. Having both gives the best of both worlds. A friend of mine took delivery of an M6 this past week. Having seen the M6 in the flesh I want one. Its like a grown up CSL with all the luxury included. I will never sell the CSL - there is no car to replace that driving experience, till the V8 arrives?
I have a M3 CSL and an M5. They are both great cars. I love the CSL for the pure driving experience and even though it is slower than the M5 it feels faster. The CSL is not an everyday car whereas the M5 is. Having both gives the best of both worlds. A friend of mine took delivery of an M6 this past week. Having seen the M6 in the flesh I want one. Its like a grown up CSL with all the luxury included. I will never sell the CSL - there is no car to replace that driving experience, till the V8 arrives?
Hehe, I was thinking the same thing! I have fallen in love with the CSL, and I am having douts about the M6, especially after reading whats happening to he 2nd hand values. I wonder if the V8 M3 will eventually be faster than the M6?
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