• M3 CSL donates equipment to create new M3 Coupe Competition Package option
• Increased responsiveness and agility
• M Track Mode dynamic control
• M3 CSL-style 19-inch light alloy wheels with beefed-up brakes
• Unique BMW-WilliamsF1-inspired Interlagos Blue metallic paint available

BMW M delivers an early Christmas present for driving enthusiasts: the new BMW M3 Coupe Competition Package option.

Drawing a myriad of components from the $210,000 M3 CSL, the new BMW M3 Competition Package option delivers 19-inch light alloy wheels, bigger brakes, M Track Mode, optimised suspension settings, quicker steering rack and a new, exclusive BMW-WilliamsF1-inspired exterior colour scheme: Interlagos Blue; a $1,600 option unique to these cars.

The BMW M3 Competition Package can be ordered immediately for delivery early in 2005. In addition to Interlagos Blue, all existing M3 colours are also available.

BMW M has designed the Competition Package to further sharpen the reflexes of the iconic M3 Coupe, to enhance the driving enjoyment even further and provide sports coupe fans with greater access to a factory-sanctioned improvement kit.

BMW Group Australia was strictly limited to just 22 customer M3 CSL cars from the short run of highly modified cars launched last year, which featured Formula 1 and aerospace technology body strengthening and weight saving composite materials.

The BMW M3 Competition Package option draws on many of the non-structural components fitted to the M3 CSL that combine to provide a subtle dynamic uplift in performance.

The Competition Package option is available at $10,900 over the price of a standard six-speed manual M3 or the six-speed Sequential Manual SMG II Drivelogic transmission equipped cars at $143,100.

The Competition Package 19-inch light alloys wheels are identical to those fitted to the M3 CSL and are shod with high-performance 225/40 R 19 tyres on 8Jx19 rims at the front and 255/35 R 19 tyres on 9.5x19 rims at the rear. The improved performance M3 CSL drilled and ventilated brake discs package adds 20 mm larger diameter rotors, now 345 mm for even greater stopping power.

Overall optimisation of the suspension and slightly enhanced steering response (a ratio of 14.5:1 instead of 15.4:1) results in noticeably improved vehicle dynamics. Keen drivers will be able to enjoy the M Track Mode also featured on the M3 CSL, allowing them to venture even further to the boundaries of the vehicle's potential without having to forgo the benefits of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). Inside, the steering wheel, handbrake lever and, on SMG II Drivelogic transmission-equipped cars, the gearshift lever knob, are finished in high-grip Alcantara, to complement the new, unique ‘Aluminium Tech’ trim.

“The BMW M3 Competition Package option brings a new level of trackside sophistication to the BMW M family without losing any of its every-day docility around town,” says John Kananghinis, General Manager, Marketing and Communications of BMW Group Australia.

“The BMW M3 continues to be one of the most lauded, most exhilarating super coupes you can buy in Australia, and the Competition Package option gives buyers a new opportunity to experience the Ultimate Driving Machine in an even more refined form.”