M3 GTS (Germany, 2010)

In 2010 the BMW M3 GTS made its debut both on the racetrack and on the road. Although the vehicle produced at the BMW M GmbH manufacturing facility is to be used at club sport events, it is also officially road-legal.

This version of the high-performance BMW M3 Coupe has received an even more powerful engine, a tuned 7-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic, modified suspension technology and has been specifically optimised with regard to aerodynamics and lightweight construction.

The M3 GTS is powered by an 8-cylinder engine, developed by BMW M GmbH for the M3, which features a high-revving concept. It has an increased displacement of 4,361 cc, thanks to a cylinder stroke extended from 75,2 to 82 mm, and a maximum power output of 450 bhp and maximum torque of 440 Nm, available at an engine speed of 3,750 rpm.

Thanks to this engine the M3 GTS is able to reach a maximum speed of 305 km/h and accelerate from 0 up to 100 km/h in mere 4.4 seconds. The M3 GTS accomplishes the 1000 meter mark in 22.5 seconds. The power is transmitted to the wheels via the M Dual Clutch Drivelogic gearbox developed for the BMW M3. Created for motor sports this 7-speed transmission permits gear shifting without interruption of traction for extremely dynamic acceleration.

Another feature of the BMW M3 GTS is its suspension, derived from motor racing and based on the front and rear axle construction featured by the BMW M3 Coupe. The vehicle has been fitted with a rigid rear-axle support and a coilover suspension. The M3 GTS also features variable camber on the front and rear axles and vehicle height for motoring race purposes. The car is lowered by 16 mm at the front and 12 mm at the rear.

In terms of its breaking system the BMW M3 GTS has received a fixed-calliper construction which includes six pistons on each of the front wheels and four pistons on each rear wheel.

The BMW M3 GTS has been fitted with motor racing-oriented front apron and rear wing elements, destined to enhance the downforce characteristics. Its orange single-coloured livery makes the BMW M3 GTS recognizable from the outside. Other model-specific features include the matt black exterior components such as the BMW kidney grille, roof trims and alloy wheels as well as the side gill elements made of dark anodised chrome.