305 KM/H BMW M3 GTS

 305 KM/H BMW M3 GTS

2010 BMW M3 GTS
Image courtesy of BMW

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The most hardcore BMW M3 yet - the BMW M3 GTS - will be available on the market, BMW has confirmed. With a longer stroke (82.0 mm - up from 75.2 mm on the standard E90 BMW M3), the V8 engine now displaces 4361 cc (E90 M3: 3999 cc). Power and torque are both improved, with maximum power being 450 PS (331 kW) at 8300 rpm and torque up 40 Nm to 440 Nm (325 ft.lb) at 3750 rpm.

The body is 30 mm longer, at 4645 mm compared to 4615 mm for the standard BMW M3 Coupé. It is also 37 mm lower at 1387 mm. Due to the demand for downforce, the aerodynamics are slightly poorer, with a coefficient of drag of 0.34, up from the standard M3's 0.31. Frontal area remains 2.17 m², giving a CdA of 0.738 m².

A seven speed Drivelogic transmission is fitted, and the gearchange timing has been set to match the GTS' engine characteristics. The final drive ratio is 3.154:1 and 7th gear is a direct ratio.

With all these improvements and changes, the M3 GTS delivers monumental performance. The standing start kilometre is covered in a searing 22.5 seconds, the 0-100 km/h sprint is despatched in 4.4 seconds. The top speed is over the magical 300 km/h mark too, at 305 km/h. CO₂ emissions are 295 g/km.

The suspension and brakes have also been fettled for a more racing orientated set-up. The dampers are independently variable, as is front and rear camber and ride height. The brakes are ventilated discs at each corner, 18 mm and 30 mm larger, front and rear respectively, than the standard BMW M3 Coupé.

All up, the BMW M3 GTS weighs in at 1605 kg (EU) (1530 kg DIN) - the normal M3 is slightly heavier. BMW have delivered an enthusiasts' machine, sticking to their traditional principles.