Jump to content

BMW M3 GT4 (next CSL) ready for production?


Andy_Bangle
 Share

Recommended Posts

A bit over a year ago, reports surfaced that BMW was planning a successor to the E90-generation M3 CSL, a highly coveted, track-focused version of its legendary sports coupé. Within a month, BMW had announced that it was canceling the program. And then these photos show up.

This M3 test mule was seen lapping the Nürburgring with a host of modifications and little in the way of camouflage. Knowing full well that the Nordschleife is swarming with more papparazi than Lindsay Lohan's front lawn, the Bavarians had to know we'd start asking questions. The car in question appears to be sporting a big front splitter, giant rear wing, a wider track housing bigger wheels and semi-slick tires. Underneath, reports suggest the 4.0-liter V8 benefits from new valves and a carbon-fibre airbox to deliver some 470 horsepower.

Call it an M3 CSL or a roadgoing M3 GT4, but with Audi's upcoming RS5 just around the corner, the smart money's on BMW putting up a fight of some kind.

Spy Shots: BMW M3 GT4 Heading For Production Run? | NextAutos.com and Winding Road

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...

Although BMW's M division may have arguably veered off course with the recent introduction of the X5M and X6M, well-to-do M-ophiles may have something to look forward to in the form of a M3 GT4 available to consumers.

Campaigned at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring this past May, the GT4 variant of BMW's V8-powered M3 is fitted with all the race-ready kit you'd expect in something developed to tackle the Green Hell, including an Ohlins suspension setup, aerodynamic enhancements, a full roll cage, airjack system, race buckets and a modified engine and transmission. "It would be specifically for motorsport drivers," BMW's M division head, Dr. Kay Segler told Autoblog. Translation: Don't expect to see this car on the street – it's a trackday toy or competition-only machine.

Although the trigger hasn't been pulled, Segler said it's being actively considered. Expect the GT4 to be available to gentlemen racers sometime in 2010.

01-bmw-m3-gt4.jpg

02-bmw-m3-gt4.jpg

03-bmw-m3-gt4.jpg

04-bmw-m3-gt4.jpg

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in



Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...