BMW M3 GTS
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BMW M3 GTS
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BMW
1st June, 2010
The history of BMW M3 motor sport is to be enriched
following the announcement that the next chapter in ‘M’ heritage is coming. The most powerful
version of the M3 Coupe, the BMW M3 GTS, features a 331 kW engine that may offer 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 3.4 kg per hp. Featuring a transmission and suspension configuration which has been
optimised for the race track, the BMW M3 GTS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The
car covers the standing kilometre in just 22.5 seconds before going on to a race track 305 km/h
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 3,999 cc to 4,361 cc and this has been achieved by a
cylinder stroke that has been extended from 75.2 mm to 82 mm. The enlarged combustion chamber has
resulted in a power output increase from 331 kW (BMW M3: 309 kW) is delivered at 8,300 rpm. Maximum
torque has also been increased by 40 Nm to 440 Nm 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.
The M Dual Clutch Drivelogic gearbox developed for the BMW M3 range is standard on the M3 GTS.
However, compared to the original transmission the gear shift characteristics have been exclusively
tuned to the modified engine featured in the BMW M3 GTS. This seven-speed transmission shifts gears
without interruption of power for rapid yet smooth acceleration.
High-performance suspension with adjustable race track set-up
The car’s suspension technology, also derived from motor racing, is based on the front and rear
axle construction featured on the ‘standard’ BMW 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 16 mm at the front and 12 mm at the rear. It also features separately adjustable dampers. Moreover,
camber on the front and rear axles is also variable.
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The high-performance brake system featured on the BMW M3 GTS has been designed as a fixed-calliper
construction and comprises six pistons per calliper on each of the front wheels and four pistons per
calliper on each rear wheel. Compared to the ‘standard’ BMW M3, the brake discs are 18 mm larger in
diameter at the front and 30 mm larger in diameter at the rear.
Specific tuning of the stability control function DSC+ (Dynamic Stability Control Plus), including
ABS and the M Dynamic Mode (MDM), make allowances for the increased dynamic potential of the BMW M3
GTS. The unique vehicle comes with intermediate tyres on 19-inch matt black M light alloy wheels
featuring a Y-spoke design.
Optimised and adjustable aerodynamics
In order to optimise air stream and for on-demand adaptation of downforce characteristics, the BMW
M3 GTS is fitted with a motor racing-oriented front apron and rear wing elements. These offer the
possibility to adapt the car’s aerodynamic characteristics according to the race track 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.
Any colour you like, so long as it’s orange
The BMW M3 GTS will only be available in a unique orange colour. Additional model-specific
features are 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.
In addition to the standard Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Plastic roof on the BMW M3 light weight
components are used on the centre console and door panels, while polycarbonate side windows at the
rear and a polycarbonate rear window reduce weight. By dispensing with the rear seats and reducing
acoustic insulation further weight is saved. Finally, the car features a new thin-walled light
weight racing exhaust system with new primary catalytic converter with titanium silencers. Thus the
unloaded weight of the BMW M3 GTS is just 1,530 kgs (DIN) including roll bar and M Dual Clutch
Drivelogic transmission – 70 kgs less than a similarly specified ‘standard’ BMW M3 Coupé. Automatic
climate control and an audio system are available as options though (thus adding weight).
The interior of the BMW M3 GTS reflects a predominant focus on optimum performance and the
highest level of safety on the race track. The range of equipment includes thoroughbred racing bucket
seats, carbon interior trims and an Alcantara M steering wheel. Door and sidewall linings in the rear
compartment are also made of Alcantara.
The BMW 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.
Although not yet confirmed for Australia, production of the BMW M3 GTS in right-hand-drive form
will commence from January, 2011.
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