BMW M3 Sedan Reviews
"The BMW M3 Sedan represent an on-going obligation to the doctrine. The motor is the core of every M version, and also the new turbo-charged six-cylinder unit fitted within both new vehicles combines the virtues of the highrevving naturally-aspirated unit with all the strengths of turbocharger technology. A lightweight design theory generates a weight-saving of around 80 kilograms on the M3.
Its peak torque of 550 Newton-metres (406 lbft) is accessible across a broad rev band and outstrips the amount recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by about 40 percent.
In the interests of ensuring exceptional efficacy and maximising dynamic capability, weight savings of approximately 80 kilograms are reached on a comparably equipped forerunner version. Certainly, both versions include a carbon roof.
Among the main goals within the creation of the BMW M3 Sedan was supposed to ensure the newest cars offered striking race track ability. Thus the existence of the track - specification cooling system, which means the optimum temperature equilibrium for the turbochargers, engine and transmission is kept at all times.
To be able to accentuate the racing nature of both designs in terms of both their technical structure and also the finetuning of the vehicles, the engineers worked closely with BMW Motorsport's expert racing drivers during the development period. For instance, Timo Glock and DTM drivers Bruno Spengler took part within the extensive testing and setup work completed in the circuit.
A combination of components operating in perfect harmony produces excellent efficiency, precision and agility
Indeed, the M-special composition of both high performance sports vehicles underlines their efficiency capacity. Big air intakes and Air Curtains in the front end, exposed carbon-fibrereinforced plastic (CFRP) and aluminium body parts, and also the diffuser in the muscular buttocks aren't just style flourishes; they also fulfil practical roles when it comes to aerodynamics, cooling and weight-saving.
Several aerodynamics steps incorporated into all regions of your body.
The notion of BMW M GmbH versions has consistently been among the crucial components within their development. The engineers must channel the atmosphere across the vehicle while also ensuring the engine, power-train and brakes obtain the cooling even if functioning under heavy loads around the race track, to make perfect platform for dynamic superiority.
Details including the potently shaped front apron, smooth under-body and clearly-defined Gurney spoiler in the back of the M3 Sedan (or incorporated spoiler lip in the back of the BMW M4 Coupe) reduce lift by an equivalent amount in the front and rear-axle and create optimum handling characteristics. Components such as M gills and the Air Curtain with built-in Atmosphere Breather rearwards of the front wheels minimise turbulence within the front wheel-arches. With the aerodynamically optimised outdoor mirrors in twin-stalk type, they're also very distinctive design attributes of the BMW M3 Sedan and lessen drag. These examples underline in familiar manner the achievement of M engineers in reconciling the needs of daily use with the needs of actions to the race track.
Advanced cooling concept for greatest performance.
To be able to ensure optimum working temperatures on short journeys around town, in daily use and out in the race track, an extremely effective cooling system has been developed by the BMW M GmbH engineers. For instance, along with both ultra-dynamic turbocharger units, the air-intake system of the engine also contains a maximising cost pressure, indirect intercooler and engine output. The track - prepared cooling theory also contains the engine and transmission oil (in case the M Double-clutch Transmission is specified, and also a water cooler re-positioned aside for the high - and low-temperature water circuits, in addition to a main radiator). These ensure a constant temperature equilibrium and consequently high performance to the street in addition to the track. An additional electrical coolant pump cools whenever the vehicle is standing the turbocharger bearing mounts.
Sixspeed manual gearbox with accelerator blipping.
The engine's power is transferred to the street using a conventional sixspeed manual gearbox with strong doubleplate clutch. This device is significantly more streamlined than its predecessor and 12 kilograms lighter. As a way of growing change comfort, the manual gearbox utilizes advanced new carbon friction linings in its synchroniser rings. Dry sump lubrication supplies an efficient reserve of oil to any or all portions of the motor. The gear box blips the accelerator on downshifts - formerly a function reserved for the M Double-clutch Transmission. This engagement speed control function aids to improve stability, enhances the smoothness of the transmission and was initially produced by motor sport engineers.
Seven-rate M Double-clutch Transmission Drivelogic with Launch-control.
The 3rd generation of the M DCT sees the M engineers once again establishing the standard when it comes to race and power monitor capacity and never needing to compromise on usability. Too as changing equipment automatically, in manual mode ultra-fast gear changes are enabled by the transmission with no disruption in the flow of electricity. Optimum sprinting performance is ensured by the integrated Launch Control function off the line, creating acceleration figures that might be out-of range together with the manual gearbox. The Smokey Burnout function enables the driver whilst the vehicle is going at low rates to enjoy an amount of back wheel spin. Balance Clutch Handle opens the clutch once the vehicle is under-steering to bring it back into line. And M DCT also contains features such as the ways that may be chosen from the driver to provide the BMW M4 more comfortable, more market - centered or even sportier features. The added seventh gear within the manual gearbox enables longer gear ratios - and produces the efficiency gains you'd expect consequently.
The engineers have been allowed by the properties of the extremely light yet impressively durable material CFRP to follow a basically new strategy within the fabrication of the drive-shaft. Made from CFRP, this part feeds the engine's torque from the gear box to the rear differential and functions under exceptionally heavy loads - notably in highperformance automobiles. "The notable stiffness and low-weight of the CFRP tube permit the drive-shaft to be built as a single-bit unit without center bearing. In addition to a weight-saving of 40 percent over its predecessor, we've reached a decrease in rotating masses and consequently enhanced drive-train dynamics," describes Albert Biermann.
Much more completed rearwheel drive with Active M Differential.
The multiplate limitedslip differential functions with exceptionally high-precision and speed. Its control device links up with the DSC (Dynamic Stability-control) system and in addition considers the location of the accelerator pedal, the rotational velocity of the wheels along with the auto's yaw rate. Every scenario is so exactly analysed and an imminent loss of grip on one phase of the vehicle recognized from an early period. Optimising grip in this manner enables impressively dynamic acceleration out-of corners and also gives unbeatable driving stability in difficult circumstances.
M Dynamic Mode enables greater wheel slide and consequently simple drifting, while DSC intervenes as necessary to counteract understeer and oversteer. Owners with a preference for sporty and dynamic driving will value this width to the automobiles' management, although DSC will nonetheless step in when the auto ventures within the limits - unless it's switched off entirely. Whichever setting the driver chooses, he/she remains responsible for the auto's balance.
Aluminium suspension components ensure sharper dynamics.
Here again, low-weight plus a high amount of rigidity for the systems are fundamental elements in ensuring the vehicles offer an ultradynamic driving experience. Within the doublejoint spring strut front axle only, using a light-weight aluminium construction for parts including wheel carriers, control arms and axle subframes saves five kilograms over a normal steel design. Playfree ball joints and elastomer bearings developed especially for BMW M4 Coupe ensure an ideal and immediate transport of forces both longitudinally and laterally. Added bolted joints between the body structure along with the axle subframe and an aluminum stiffening plate, CFRP front strut brace all help to raise the rigidity of the front end.
Also lighter compared to the building within the outgoing BMW M3 is the new fivelink rear-axle. Wheel carriers and each of the control arms are made using cast aluminium, which reduces the masses of the wheel - finding parts by around three kilograms in contrast to the prior version generation. The rigid link between the body along with the back axle subframe - without using elastic rubber elements - is borrowed from motor activity and functions to help enhance directional stability wheel location along with consequently. "The doubleelastic mounting for the rear differential inside the rear axle subframe - that is bolted to the body structure - has enabled us to reach a new degree of driving precision, only without neglecting relaxation," says Albert Biermann, mentioning another instance of the ideal symbiosis of purebred motor activity technologies and exceptional regular usability.
The evolution of the tyres for those automobiles was integrated into the building procedure for those axles from the beginning. For highperformance sports cars such as BMW M4 Coupe, particularly, steering feel and precision are the leading concerns within the creation of tyres for the front-axle, along side braking forces and lateral stability. In the back axle, meanwhile, lateral stability, grip and directional stability take centre-stage. 19inch tyres are offered as an alternative. The specially-developed cast wheels make an important contribution to the decrease within the automobiles' unsprung masses and, consequently, to the optimization of dynamic characteristics and efficacy. The seasoned M engineers took great care to make sure each of the parts between the steering-wheel and tyres interact harmoniously and consequently supply maximum driving precision and lateral stability, together with great ride comfort.
Electrical Power Steering with three configurations.
It provides the gifts of specific suggestions and direct guiding experience. The incorporated Servotronic function electronically adjusts the amount of steering aid based on the auto's rate, providing optimum steering features at all speeds. The steering system for BMW M3 Sedan offers three options to the driver as standard, which is often chosen at the touch of the button. COMFORT, ATHLETICS and ATHLETICS modes enable the amount of steering assist to be adapted to satisfy the problem at hand and also the driver's individual preferences.
The alternativeal Adaptive M suspension also includes RELAXATION, ATHLETICS and ATHLETICS modes, empowering the driver to select between a far more comfortable damper setting for city driving, for instance, a stiffer setup for dynamic driving on country roads, and a third alternative that minimises body motions and maximises dynamic functionality to be used to the monitor.
Significantly lighter-than traditional equivalents, these brakes consequently help improve functionality and lead to a considerable decrease in unsprung masses. Even lighter BMW M carbon-ceramic brakes may also be specified as an alternative, their further optimised functionality characteristics equipping them even more efficiently for track use and providing them even greater durability.
The new sixcylinder inline engine: High revving, turbocharged unit combines the very best of both worlds
"When creating a brand new version we first consider what conditions the vehicle will probably be anticipated to meet, then determine which ideas and technologies will probably best meet these targets," states Albert Biermann. An additional hallmark of the engine is its excellent efficiency.
The brand new engine sees a little power improvement on the last V8 to 431 hp, which will be provided between 7 and 5, 390, 000 rpm. Peak torque was raised by about 40 percent to 550 Newton-metres, and is kept over an extremely broad rev band (1,800-5,390 rpm).
Instantaneous reaction, thanks to M TwinPower Turbo technology.
The M TwinPower Turbo technology contains two quick - reacting VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, High-precision Direct Petrol Injection, monoscroll turbochargers and DoubleVANOS continuously variable camshaft timing. DoubleVANOS and vALVETRONIC work in tandem to seamlessly manage intake-valve lift. The end result is easy and effective power delivery, quite sharp reaction and reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
The engine enables cylinder pressures to be raised for improved power result and includes a shut - deck crankcase style that is quite rigid. And rather than liners, the cylinder bores feature a double-cable arcsprayed coating, which leads to a major decrease in engine weight.
Another technical highlight is the cast, torsionally rigid crankshaft which, in addition to providing increased torquecarrying capacity, can be light. This considerably decreases rotating masses, leading to acceleration and improved throttle response.
Track-prepared engine oil supply system for excellent performance.
The lowweight magnesium oil sump, for instance, includes an unique cover to restrict motion of the oil under the effects of powerful dynamic lateral acceleration. Under severe longitudinal acceleration and deceleration, an oil extraction pump plus a complex oil return system located near the turbocharger similarly help keep stable oil circulation.
An engine sound consistent with the motor activity traits of the BMW M4 is supplied through an advanced flap arrangement within the dual-pipe exhaust system. The electrically controlled flaps just ahead of the rear silencer minimise exhaust backpressure and create a BMW M sound that's striking and unmistakable in the whole engine speed range, in addition to giving exact comments on engine load. The various selectable drive ways, which provide a choice to motorists of pre-configured, totally balanced car setups, also feature various engine sound profiles.
Light-weight style over the board: Dropping weight in all of the appropriate spots
Intelligent lightweight design proved to be top priority within the creation of the BMW M4. To be able to give both versions emblematic performance and excellent driving dynamics the aim was to minimise kerb weight.
To the versions, the CFRP roof was confined to the Coupe version. Now, for the very first time, the fourdoor BMW M3 will understand this practical attribute and design too. Additionally, it lowers the vehicle's center of gravity, that has a favorable effect on driving dynamics.
Made from aluminum as opposed to normal steel, the front-side walls and the bonnet (with electricity dome) make an essential contribution to the designs' light-weight design theory, while simultaneously enhancing axle load distribution.
About the M3 Sedan, the roof-line with central channel proceeds to the boot-lid, emphasising the even sportier character of the brand-new version. As using plastics and carbon-fibre makes for added weight-savings, the newly-developed boot-lid not only offers very powerful tail-end styling, its geometry are at once exactly customized for optimised aerodynamics.
New BMW M3 Sedan also include a CFRP propeller shaft. The low-weight and high-rigidity of the CFRP tube imply the propeller shaft could be created as a single - bit part, without a center bearing. This achieves weight-savings of 40 percent over the prior version plus a decrease in rotating masses, which then leads to more dynamic powertrain result.
The CFRP strut brace within the engine compartment is just another illustration of how all weightsaving measures on such vehicles are also tailored towards the advancement of driving dynamics. Weighing only 1.5 kilograms, the strut brace provides exceptional rigidity to a similar aluminium element, and at the very same time plays a crucial part within the superb steering response and preciseness of both vehicles.
Using carbon in these types of models is really a reminder that BMW is a world-wide leader in highstrength, light-weight CFRP development, which it was BMW who presented the first massproduction automobile using a body consisting completely of the stuff - the advanced BMW i3.
Improvement input from professional racing drivers: BMW works driver Bruno Spengler about the technical highlights
"I am happy to have formed a contribution to the setup focus on both of these vehicles," says 2012 DTM champion Spengler, who also took third spot in the 2013 chain. "The suspension has a really sporty setup, the comments from the front axle is incredibly direct, the clasp in the rear axle is exceptional and also the engine functionality is amazing. This is actually the perfect foundation for the DTM car."
"As a race driver, I am quite impressed by the immediate, lagfree response in both turbos just you step in the gas. It is a breathtaking aspect of the motor which means more pleasure in the wheel and it is ideal for sporty driving."
...on the electronic power-steering:
"The electronic power-steering is quite exact, and from my viewpoint being a race driver that is quite, very significant. It reacts immediately to inputs and offers excellent comments."
...on the rear-axle:
"The back axle has a really progressive locking activity, because of the electronically-controlled limitedslip differential, and creates enormous quantities of grip. Whenever you accelerate away from the corner again, the lockup engages increasingly all the way up-to 100 percent complete lock, for best grip."
Design: Stunning utilization of types underlines stand-out performance capacity
Seen from the front, M3 Sedan stand-out most conspicuously with their strong contours and a firmly defined three-dimensionality, which lend them a powerfully expressive face. Characteristic design elements make no question that these vehicles would be the work of BMW M. One of another hallmark BMW M style attributes on display may be the characteristic energy dome on the bonnet, which hints at the possibility of the brawny M TwinPower Turbo-engine and creates room for the intercooler.
The flanks: dynamic lines and lowslung shape.
The surfaces of both vehicles expand the impression produced by their own various front-ends. The hallmark BMW proportions of the long wheelbase, long bonnet, setback glasshouse and short front overhang are lent additional emphasis by recognizable M style components.
These dynamics-accentuating details include additionally just created M gills, which perform both a stylistic and also a purposeful purpose. Incorporated into them are Air Breathers, which synergy with the Air Curtains within the front apron to help optimize the flow of air across the wheel-arches and consequently enhance aerodynamics.
A fluid roofline lends the currently athletic complete look of the M3 Sedan a elegance and finesse. The line increases in momentum once more as it heads rearwards, raising aerodynamic downforce and giving a more muscular appearance to the back at the similar time.
The back: BMW M3 Sedan with spoiler incorporated in the boot-lid.
The layout of the back end shows dramatic differences within both versions. Certainly, the couple of lines which start life flanking the power dome within the bonnet - and rating a clearly-defined course over the CFRP roof - finish their journey within the boot-lid.
A common attribute of both versions are the conspicuously flared rear-wheel arches which, in conjunction with the broad course, underline the look of the BMW M3. A characteristic BMW M depth of the butt are the polished, now slanting set of double exhaust tailpipes, which are framed like gems from the sculptural back apron with its built-in diffuser.
The inside decoration: perfect ergonomics in a sport ambience.
Climbing to the BMW M3, motorists will probably be greeted by the inner architecture familiar in the BMW 3 - Series, filled with clear driver focus and unimpeachable ergonomics. Consistent with the character of both versions, but, the inside fulfils a much more sharply defined athletic brief. To the end, the plethora of conventional BMW M gear details contains M door-sill finishers, an M driver's foot rest, M gearshift lever, M-layout circular instruments with white images, M leather steering-wheel with chrome trim, colour comparison stitching and electroplatedlook shift paddles (when the M DCT gearbox is specified).
The front seats also signify an evocative expression of BMW M's motor activity genes. Getting visual inspiration in the bucket seats built in racing cars, a full-size single-piece back panel is featured by the seats. In other words, whilst the large, widthadjustable side bolsters, the building of the seats is quite level and lowset seat area supply outstanding assistance and enable a perfect seating position. Despite their undeniably sporty style, the BMW M sports seats could be specified as an alternative with relaxation - improving features including heat and electrical adjustment. To the seat area, the sewing, upholstery segmentation and perforation lend a slimfitting sense to the seats. Illuminated for the very first time, the BMW M logo in the seat back-rests provides a different and unique highlight.
Gear: Extensive standard products joined with a number of alternatives that enrich relaxation and dynamics
New BMW M3 Sedan leave the factory with a comprehensive assortment of gear on-board which demonstrates their nature as exceptionally performanceoriented automobiles offering exceptional regular usability. Additionally, clients can select from an extensive variety of optional equipment to provide a much more uncompromising athletic advantage to the highperformance sports cars or shove their comfort levels for the most. And for clients eager to put a really personal stamp on proceeding, the spectrum of BMW Individual products - including BMW Individual Merino leather, BMW Individual paint finishes and BMW Individual interior trim components - will be an additional path well worth investigating.
Carbon roof as a visible indication of the obligation to lightweight design.
The CFRP roof, that was fitted to the model only of the outgoing BMW M3, is a normal feature of the new BMW M4 Coupe as well as the new BMW M3 Sedan. The "open" styling of the carbonfibre building accentuates not only the exclusivity of both models as well as their direct links to motor activity, additionally, it emphasises obviously the light-weight design philosophy underpinning the automobiles.
Both models come as standard with forged 18inch BMW M lightalloy wheels with mixedsize tyres. Forged 19inch lightalloy wheels with combined-size tyres could be ordered as an alternative, in both Ferric Gray or Black.
Inside with motor activity and beautiful materials atmosphere.
They are folded in a 60 and could be made from a lightweight composite materials: 40 split. This provides the BMW M3 a measure of variance and everyday usability that's well beyond the standard for high-performance sports cars in their amount.
Motorists of the BMW M3 can anticipate piloting their vehicle from behind a doublespoke M leather steering-wheel. The M emblem, chrome trim and color comparison stitching are fundamental aspects of the cottage's racing atmosphere. As the sevenspeed M Double-clutch Transmission is available as an alternative, both models come as standard with a sixspeed manual gearbox.
Chassis technology and revolutionary driveline produce unbeatable dynamics.
Though a Launch-control system optimises acceleration off the line, the discretionary M DCT Drivelogic changes gear without any gap in the stream of energy, enabling it to reduce shift times. M DCT also features the Smokey Burn-out function, which enables the driver whilst the vehicle is going at low rates to enjoy an amount of back wheel spin.
New BMW M3 are equipped as standard with BMW M compound brakes, but clients also can purchase their vehicle with much more powerful and even lighter BMW M carbon-ceramic brakes, which come together with the added visual highlight of goldpainted callipers.
Optional addons for complete driver advice.
Eager monitor drivers will be happy to discover that BMW M GmbH has created a free BMW M Laptimer application, which enables owners to analyse their individual driving style. Once their smart phone is connected to the BMW - via USB cable or the auto's snap-in adapter - clients can control the BMW M Laptimer application effortlessly using the iDrive Controller. Which means, if the data is later analysed via graphical displays to the client's smart-phone, the driver's reactions may also be evaluated. Another feature enables two recordings on exactly the same track to be compared corner-by-corner. The readings used here may be both the driver's own or information shared via e-mail.
The discretionary HeadUp Display in the BMW M3 includes added, M-special functions like a gear display, rev-counter and Optimum Shift Indicator.
Creation: Return to the birth place of the BMW M3
Creation began only a couple of months later in the first BMW plant nearby. A total of 17,970 models of the first-generation BMW M3 were assembled here as much as 1991. Now, nearly 23 years later, creation of the iconic sports-car - long because bonded celebrated status - is returning to its birthplace.
Complete integration into the normal production process.
One of many reasons for the decision to separate production of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 between both facilities centred around the organization's commitment to integrating both highperformance sports cars to the production procedures for their individual donor models. For instance, the BMW M4 will be assembled alongside versions like the normal BMW 4-Series Coupe in Munich, and Regensburg is the place for creation of the BMW 3-Series Sedan in addition to the new BMW M3. Among the advantages of "combined" creation on a common line is the fact that the plants can react immediately to market changes by making changes to unit amounts as required. Too as effective production planning and logistics, the fundamental component within this strategy may be the method: both M models will probably be assembled alongside their individual donor models on the same production line.
Intensive experiencesharing guarantees a smooth production startup.
This is the very first time the Munich plant has handled creation of the lightweight design theory combining side panels and an aluminium bonnet, CFRP roof and lightweight tailgate within this blend. The sharing of experience with colleagues in Regensburg ensures the workers in Munich keep an excellent amount of manufacturing expertise in regards to light-weight design systems. Certainly, Plant Regensburg can call on several years of expertise in design. The Regensburg factory has been responsible for the fabrication of several BMW Motorsport touring cars assembled for race action, too as creation of the generation of the BMW M3 with its carbon roof.
Hall of fame:
The new BMW M4 Coupe represent the fifth-generation of the purebred sports-car providing exceptional regular usability - one that has lifted the bar within the ultrahigh-operation midsize sedan/coupe segment at each turn during the past three decades.
The very first-generation: forming the foundation for the world's most successful touring car.
The version needed for homologation - 5, 000 types that must be constructed for sale annually to fill the sporting rules for this particular class of racing - was conceived from the beginning for a race - prepared Team A device. The inaugural BMW M3 observed its premier in September 1985 at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), together with the market start following in summer 1986.
Within this trim, all sales expectations were exceeded by the first-generation BMW M3.
The 2nd generation: three versions of the "wolf in sheep's clothing".
The successor to the first M3 was not created as the foundation for a racing-car. Nevertheless, it was created from the beginning in three body versions. Top speed was electronically restricted to 250 km/h / 155 mph.
In 1997 the BMW M3 became the world's first volumeproduced car to be provided as an alternative together with the Sequential M Gearbox (SMG). This transmission form was based in the classic gearbox for the M3, but using a clutch which was activated electrohydraulically to change gears. M3 motorists not required to press a clutch pedal; all-they had to do in order to change gear immediately on one degree was pull or push the gear-shift lever. Initial scepticism was defied by achievement, and by the time creation came to a finish nearly one in every two examples of the generation of the M3 generation was fitted with the SMG gearbox. The M3 had grown from a niche sports-car into a resounding sales success: 71, 242 models of the Convertible, Coupe and Sedan joined were created at Regensburg.
Several design attributes of the secondgeneration BMW M3 also cemented their places within the driver's consciousness. They contained unique lightalloy wheels in layout and the specially-formed, aerodynamically optimised outdoor mirror casings with their two wingshaped struts. These highlights are revisited over and over in following generations of the M3 by means of some intriguing layout cues.
The 3rd generation: increased dynamics in a style.
The brand new version also lifted another to the bar not-inconsiderable notch with regards to dynamics and operation. Its sixcylinder inline engine still had 3.2litre displacement, however now created 252 kW/343 hp. Proof the sixcylinder engine's special pulling power couldn't have been supplied any more emphatically.
For the very first time, the BMW M3 now also came using a variable differential lock in the rear-axle allowing between 0 and 100 percent lock. The results were apparent gains with regards to grip and traction cornering at speed and when pulling away.
The athletic flagship with this M3 era was the BMW M3 CSL released in 2003. The threeletter suffix stood for "Coupe Sport Lightweight", a charge warranted by elements including a carbonfibre roof, center console and door panels, a lighter rear-window and also the omission of several relaxation-oriented functions. Having a weight of merely 1, 385 kilograms, it tipped the scales some 110 kilograms under the M3.
The fourth-generation: V8 sensible lightweight design and engine.
As the BMW M3 took to the period for the very first time in 15 twelvemonths minus the unit so often topped Motor of the Full year 2007 signalled a break with convention. The new 3,999cc motor created 309 kW/420 hp and some 85 percent of its own maximum 400 Newton-metres (542 pounds-ft) of torque was accessible across a tremendous 6,500 rpm rev range. The engineers continued along the route of light-weight style together with the Coupe particularly. In the rear of positive encounter with several other M models, the roofing was once more made from carbonfibre-reinforced plastic. As were large segments of the newly-developed lightweight chassis, the bonnet with its striking power dome was made from aluminum.
Among the highlights of the fourthgeneration auto's creation run were the exclusive small-show versions of the BMW M3 which shone an even brighter spotlight on its racinginspired features. Here, the BMW M3 GTS - route-registered but created for clubsport racing - stood out particularly. The displacement of the regular M3's V8 engine was expanded to 4.4 litres to produce peak production of 331 kW/450 hp. Specially-developed chassis parts and aerodynamic measures, along with a twoseat cockpit conceived for track use, outfitted this unique special-version model (only accessible showstealing Fire-orange paintwork) for aggressive activity to the track and created a particularly extreme M feeling to the street. 135 samples of the BMW M3 GTS were sent to clients.
The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) offered in 2011 was restricted to only 67 units. Exclusively made lightweight parts and altered chassis technologies imbued this 331 kW / 450 hp version, that has been assembled in the BMW M GmbH factory and based on the BMW M3 Sedan, with extremely precise handling stability. The bonnet of the BMW M3 CRT was produced from two CFRP mouldings encasing an aramid honeycomb construction, its bucket seats showcased two CFRP layers wrapped around a honeycomb, along with a carbon layer created using normal manufacturing technologies was put into obvious places. An air and a rear spoiler - channelling component incorporated in the front apron (both made from CFRP) rounded off the unique light-weight components on the BMW M3 CRT.
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