BMW's M division takes regular BMWs, makes them lighter, and beefs up their engines. Here are some of the fastest BMW M models ever made, ranked by top speed.

Later, BMW offered an extra-hot E46 M3 CSL and teased the nameplate's return ... reworked front and rear suspension and axle tuning, and powertrain upgrades to boost engine output.

As well as losing weight wherever possible the CSL has bespoke springs and electronically adjustable dampers, rides 8mm lower and rose joints replace much of the rubber in the rear axle.

Even for a company that employs so many people rocking fast footwear, BMW Motorsport’s launch of a lightweight E46 M3 back in 2003 – the now iconic and appreciating CSL – was big news.