BMW M3 GTS (E92)

The BMW M3 GTS is a limited edition of the production model BMW M3 (E92 body), produced from 2007 to 2013.

Development and production

In November 2009, BMW announced the start of production in 2010 of the M3 GTS (E92 body). The M3 GTS was designed as a clubsport-focused road car and was produced only in coupe body and only in bright orange. Changes from the regular M3 included an upgraded engine, reduced curb weight, revised suspension, improved brakes, and adjustable aerodynamics.

The BMW M3 GTS was assembled on the 3 Series production line in Regensburg and then transported to the BMW M Center in Garching for final processing. Production took place in small batches between May 2010 and December 2011 and a total of 138 were produced, of which 113 were left-hand drive (mainly for Germany) and 25 were right-hand drive (mainly for the UK).

The BMW M3 GTS was priced at US$145,000. All cars were instantly sold out.

Engine

The M3 GTS featured a larger engine from 4.0 to 4.4 liters compared to the M3 model. The increase in volume was achieved by increasing the piston stroke from 75.2 mm to 82 mm. As a result, power has increased from 420 hp. up to 450 hp, and torque from 400 Nm to 440 Nm. The engine also featured design features borrowed from motorsport: a baseplate crankcase made from a special aluminium-silicon alloy, separate throttles, knock sensors with ion current technology and a dynamically optimized wet sump oil supply. A lightweight sports exhaust system with titanium rear mufflers ensured optimum exhaust flow.

Transmission

The only transmission option was a 7-speed Dual Clutch Robotic Transmission (M-DCT) that sent power to the rear wheels.

Chassis

For the sake of handling, the rear subframe was rigidly bolted to the body, and the passive shock absorbers were equipped with compression and rebound force adjustments, the suspension was able to adjust the camber angle and ground clearance, which was reduced to 104 mm (16 mm in front and 12 mm in the rear) according to compared to the M3 model.

The brake system received 6-piston calipers with 18 mm larger diameter discs, and 4-piston calipers with 30 mm larger diameter discs at the rear. The DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) stability control systems, including ABS and M Dynamic Mode (MDM), have been reconfigured to take into account the dynamic characteristics of the BMW M3 GTS. The aluminum wheels were shod with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires measuring 225/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R19 at the rear.

The car was 125 kg lighter than the regular M3 due to a carbon fiber roof, lighter center console and door panels, polycarbonate side and rear windows, no rear seats, and the removal of sound deadening.

Exterior

To optimize airflow and adapt downforce characteristics, the BMW M3 GTS was equipped with a front spoiler and rear wing, similar to sports cars. The ability to adjust the inclination of the spoiler and wing made it possible to adapt the aerodynamic characteristics of the car to the profile of the race track and other requirements of sports clubs.

With the exception of two models painted white (Alpine White III - 300), all coupes were exclusively in orange (Fire Orange II – U94), including the valve cover on the engine. The front grille and side gills were painted black chrome with a metallic effect.

Interior

The interior of the BMW M3 GTS focuses on optimum performance and the highest level of safety on the race track. The equipment range included Recaro racing buckets trimmed in black fabric, carbon fiber interior trim and an Alcantara leather steering wheel. The trims on the doors and sidewalls in the rear compartment are also made of Alcantara. The BMW M3 GTS was fitted as standard with a cross member behind the B-pillars. In addition, the body had attachment points for optional six-point seat belts and an additional roll cage extension, as well as places for a fire extinguisher. The car was equipped with automatic three-point seat belts for road use.

For the sake of relief, the sports car lacked a multimedia complex, climate control, and sound insulation, but they could be installed optionally.

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