BMW sends off the 6th-gen M3 CS with a manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive

BMW's final sixth-generation M3 CS sends off the manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive—a farewell to purist driving in an age of automation. With 543 hp from its twin-turbo inline-six and a curb weight of just 3,640 pounds, this limited edition undercuts the standard M3 Competition by 110 pounds. It outperforms #9's focus on software fixes by delivering tangible mechanical engineering instead. Cheaper than the typical rival like the Porsche 911 GT3 by $24,000, yet offers a similar raw connection: 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds with a six-speed stick. Only 1,200 units will be built, making this a collector's dream that prioritizes driver engagement over lap times.