z4 gt3

BMW launches Z4 GT3 for the Gentleman Racer

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos, Sports

Mario Theissen and his crew at BMW Motorsport have had some extra time on their hands. First they pulled out of Formula One, selling their team back to Sauber. Then they streamlined their World Touring Car Championship teams, eliminating several cars in the process. So what have they been doing with their newfound spare time? You're looking at it: the BMW Z4 GT3.

Designed for the "gentleman racer", the GT3-spec Z4 gets a heart transplant courtesy of the M3's 4-liter, 480-horsepower V8. Coupled to a six-speed sequential and managed by Munich's ECU408 control unit, that ought to be enough to quicken the heartrates of Bimmerfiles worldwide. But wait, there's more! Like competition-spec ABS, a full roll-cage, central-locking rims and a new front axle with adjustable tubular stabilizer. Oh, and significant weight has been shaved through the use of carbon fiber for the wings, hood, roof and fenders.

BMW will sell you a race-ready car – eligible for such series as the FIA GT3 European Championship, International GT Open and Germany's own ADAC GT Masters – for €298,000, or about $400k in American funds.

Gallery: BMW Motorsport Z4 GT3