The history of BMW M3 motor sport is to be enriched following the confirmation that the next chapter in ‘M’ heritage is here. The most powerful version of the high-performance M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 GTS, features a 450hp engine that offers the ideal preconditions for use at club sport events, while still being road-legal. In addition to a larger and more powerful V8 engine, exclusive tuning of the seven-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with DRIVELOGIC and modified suspension technology, the M3 GTS has also been specifically optimised with regard to aerodynamics and lightweight construction.
The sporting potential of the BMW M3 GTS is underlined by a power-to-weight ratio that has been lowered to 3.4kgs per hp. Featuring a transmission and suspension configuration which has been optimised for the racetrack, the BMW M3 GTS accelerates from zero to 62mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The car covers the standing kilometre in just 22.5 seconds before going on to a 190mph top speed.
Dr. Kay Segler, CEO of BMW M GmbH, said: "The BMW M3 is an icon and internationally synonymous with the highest level of dynamics. Our aim was to develop a model variant that would prove its outstanding potential both on the road and at club sport racing events. The BMW M3 GTS is pure M feeling, embodying the brand values in a highly concentrated form."
Enhanced drivetrain
The power required by this unique vehicle is delivered by a high-revving eight-cylinder engine taken from the ‘standard’ BMW M3 range that has then been enhanced with an increase in displacement, power output and maximum torque.
The engine’s displacement has grown from 3,999cc to 4,361cc and this has been achieved by a cylinder stroke that has been extended from 75.2mm to 82mm. The enlarged combustion chamber has resulted in a power output increase from 420hp to 450hp with peak power attained at 8,300rpm. Maximum torque has also been increased by 40Nm to 440Nm and is available at an engine speed of 3,750 rpm.
Characteristic features derived from motor sport include the crankcase designed as a bedplate construction and made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy, individual throttle butterflies, knock sensors featuring ionic-current technology and a dynamically optimised wet-sump oil supply that has been adapted from the original power unit. The lightweight sports exhaust system developed for the BMW M3 GTS with model-specific primary catalytic converters and titanium rear silencers ensure optimum exhaust flow.