The history of BMW M3 motor sport is to be enriched following the confirmation that the next chapter in ‘M’ heritage will be in form of the M3 GTS.
The most powerful version of the high-performance M3 Coupé yet, the BMW M3 GTS features a 336kW engine that offers the ideal preconditions for use track use, 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, the M3 GTS has also been specifically optimised with regard to aerodynamics and lightweight construction.
The sporting potential of the M3 GTS is underlined by a power-to-weight ratio that has been lowered to 3.4kgs per kW. The BMW M3 GTS accelerates from 0 -100km/h in a mere 4.4 seconds while covering the standing kilometre in just 22.5 seconds before going on to a 306km/h top speed.
Enhanced drivetrain
The power 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 313kW to 336kW with peak power attained at 8 300r/min. Maximum torque has also been increased by 40Nm to 440Nm and is available at an engine speed of 3 750 r/min.
The engine is mated to seven-speed transmission in the form of BMW’s M Dual Clutch Drivelogic gearbox which is standard on the M3 GTS.
High-performance suspension
The M3 GTS suspension, also derived from motor racing, is based on the front and rear axle construction featured on the M3 Coupé. However, the BMW M3 GTS features a rigidly bolted rear suspension subframe with adjustable height. The car, thus, can be lowered by up to 16mm at the front and 12mm at the rear. It also features separately adjustable dampers while, camber on the front and rear axles are also variable.
Compared to the standard M3, the GTS brake discs are 18mm larger in diameter at the front and 30mm larger in diameter at the rear.
Optimised aerodynamics
In order to optimise air stream and on-demand adaptation of downforce characteristics, the M3 GTS is fitted with racing-oriented front apron and rear wing elements. These offer the possibility to adapt the car’s aerodynamic characteristics according to the racetrack profile and other motor sport requirements.
The geometry of the front apron air deflectors can be varied as can the position of the rear wing. The rear wing assembly is based on the corresponding component featured by the BMW 320si in the World Touring Car Championship.
The M3 GTS is equipped as standard with a roll bar fitted behind the B-pillars with an optional roll cage extension. Additionally supplied six-point safety seat belts for driver and front seat passenger and a fire extinguisher complete the range of standard equipment.
Production of the BMW M3 GTS for the UK market in right-hand-drive form will commence from January 2011 while pricing will be announced at a later stage.
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