Ever since the demise of the E46 M3 CSL, enthusiasts have been (im)patiently awaiting a replacement. That successor has finally arrived in the form of the 2011 M3 GTS. Like the CSL, the GTS features substantially reduced weight, complemented by slightly increased horsepower, which now comes to life thanks to a couple of BMW-issued videos.
While the regular M3 tips the scales at 3,704 lbs, the GTS model weighs just 3,285 lbs — that’s 419 pounds less, which is sure to make a big difference where inertia really counts, namely acceleration off the line and cornering.
Compared to the normal M3’s naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8, the GTS gains extra displacement, for a total of 4.4 liters. This results in 450 horsepower, delivered to the wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The interior is stripped down for maximum performance, with two racing seats up front and a roll cage in place of the rear seats. The suspension has also been stiffened, and a spoiler promises to keep the rear end planted.
Availability is expected to begin in mid 2010, with a starting price of around $150,000.
11/10, 12:52 PM
posted by:
A4
MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM delicious
11/10, 1:28 PM
posted by:
jodogg
Nice car, but way too over-priced. NMOFGM can die in a fire too. Before he even opens his redneck mouth about it. Been reading his comments for weeks, but was too lazy to sign up and give him a piece of my mind.
11/10, 1:42 PM
posted by:
atoms
I never realized till now how porky the 3 series and M3 have gotten
11/10, 1:43 PM
posted by:
gooch02000
Yeah, when weight reduction takes you DOWN to around 3,300 lbs, that’s some serious pork. Amazing car porn though, those videos.
11/10, 1:44 PM
posted by:
Francois_1616
Wow omf. This is now my favourite car. the second video is amazing. well done BMW. wow she is a Stunning piece of art
11/10, 2:08 PM
posted by:
Borat
Less heft, more guts. That’s what all cars should be all about. I actually wish they drop the fin and put I6 in the motor bay. The fin looks fugly and lighter I6, albeir a notch slower, will give car perfect balance (the nose will be lightened up). Actually I believe I6 can be tuned without much drama to about 400 HP.
11/10, 2:42 PM
posted by:
2WheeledSpeed
No doubt it’s worth a premium over the regular M3, But 100 grand? Oh well, I’m not a BMW guy anyways.
11/10, 3:13 PM
posted by:
scottns
Probably saving a more powerful i6 for the 1 series M.
11/10, 4:35 PM
posted by:
leftwingagenda
i have the evo and wrx on the line, bmw, they want their ridiculous wings back asap, thanks…
11/10, 7:21 PM
posted by:
05Z88Path
Wow. The Part 2 video was definitely a case of car porn. Shame the sticker price is so high, that’s a killer Bimmer. Love the color combination too!
11/10, 9:34 PM
posted by:
e46Ne90
simply amazing yet with that much $ i cant help but opt for the gt3 over this
11/10, 9:40 PM
posted by:
LunaticRider
There is sex and there is BMW M3 GTS. I would trade it for sex with a hot chick with hot ass and double D tits any day. Haaa Still Droolingggg….
Live Free. Drive Fast.
11/11, 8:21 AM
posted by:
LS7
Wow, this thing is such a RIP-OFF that it makes Lexus LFA look like a great deal.
It’s funny the amount of Corvette/911 vs GTR comparisons made on here, but none about M3 vs GTR. This thing costs what, nearly TWICE of a GTR? LOL.
Both are two door coupes with smallish rear seats.
11/17, 8:51 PM
posted by:
Need more oil for the VW Group
Those who buy this car are too gay for a 911 GT3.
VW. An European Invasion.