Nissan 370Z Forum - M3 Lovers: M3 GTS

Source: Road & Track Magazine - First Look: 2010 BMW M3 GTS (11/2009)

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The M in M3 may stand for Motorsports, but hardcore enthusiasts always want more. The folks BMW's Motorsports division seem to know this, so they've taken the M3 to the limit with the new GTS model. Some may member the M3 CSL, and this car is right in line with that model, but minus a trunk kit of race parts and warranty waiver.

There are minor exterior changes. Most obvious are the adjustable rear wing and front splitter. Not so obvious is the replacement of bright chrome trim with special dark eloxy-plated chrome.

The big changes come where they matter. The rear subframe is bolted more rigidly to the chassis, and the dampers wear threaded bodies for adjustment of stroke length. Heavy duty brake rotors are clamped by 6-piston fixed front calipers with 4-piston fixed rears. Of course, the 19-in competition rims are of light alloy, and the stability control has been optimized to make the best use of the race-oriented set-up.

Without a doubt a stock 4.0-liter M3 is plenty quick to begin with, but the V-8 in the GTS has been bumped in displacement to 4.4 liters. The net result is 450 bhp, routed through a dual-clutch 7-speed M DKG transmission tuned for performance.

Performance, however, has best been improved by the removal of about 265 pounds. This has been accomplished via titanium mufflers, a lightweight center console and door linings, plus a carbon-fiber roof. But to really save weight the rear seats, stereo, climate control and majority of sound insulation have been removed. In their place is a roll bar, Recaro seats, fire bottle and 6-point Schroth HANS-ready safety belts.

It's a pity, but the lightweight BMW M3 GTS won't be sold in the U.S.