BMWNA graciously provided us the dialog of a recent in-house interview with M Brand Manager Larry Koch. We and others have openly speculated as to why the US would not receive the ///M3 GTS but it has never been officially explained, until now. Our speculation (and many others) was spot on.
Q: “Why won’t BMW NA bring the M3 GTS to the United States?”
LK: When I first started discussing the GTS with M in Garching [Munich], I knew it could be a hit in the US, albeit most likely a short-lived hit given such a high price [110,000 Euros before US homologation]. However, when taking a closer look, we realized the car does not pass any EPA or federal safety standards. Those are two big catches for importing a new BMW, even in small volumes. Modifying the GTS to make it US-compliant would be a very costly affair because the car lacks airbags, proper DOT seatbelts, proper bumper height, etc. And those are just the safety items. Keep in mind the 4.4 liter engine is not homologated for the US which would require more than a simple set of racing catalysts [as the car is currently equipped].
We have confirmed with several iron clad sources that for model year 2011, ///M3s will be available with an optional Competition Package (ZCP). In the past the Competition Package featured larger wheels, brakes, and a host of other performance enhancements. The ZCP is what every enthusiast could want in an ///M- it gives us more of the things we want and less of the stuff everyone else wants.
On the previous generation ///M3 (E46) ZCP interior there were Alcantara inserts throughout, with the most notable of all being the steering wheel. Alcantara not only looks and feels great it provides added grip to the wheel (refrain from using lotion as it KILLS the Alcantara). Exclusive trim items reminiscent of the famed CSL were also carried over. With BMW recently releasing the ///M3 GTS outside the US we had heard that a competition package was in the works with some of the items designed for that special car being used to fill it.
While details remain fuzzy, we know there will be larger wheels and a host of other performance enhancements available. The wheels will be 19″ (style 359 M),we have also been told to expect 10 mm lower suspension and an updated EDC Sport setting. Those are just some of the anticipated enhancements. There is also a 7MA option tied directly to the ZCP, it could be simply a manual transmission option or what we hope to be a leaner and meaner exhaust. As for pricing, we estimate the full competition package to come in at between four and five thousand dollars based on passed examples.
As we hear more we will let you know but for the time being…. wipe the drool from your chin! Official announcements will not come for a while.
Thanks to all those that helped contribute to this breaking story!
Todd and I sat down with Head of BMWNA Product Planning and Strategy/BMW Motorsport Manager Martin Birkmann amidst all the debuts yesterday for a candid talk about all things BMW. It was clear that our readers wanted not only hints and future products, but a clearer understanding behind some of the recent decisions involving the DCT transmission. Specifically why it’s the sole option for a few forthcoming performance related BMW products.
We also talked about M, motorsport and of course effeciency and how it relates to BMW as a brand. It’s rare that anyone gets a chance to talk so candidly with Mr. Birkmann. Enjoy!
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We talked about this on our soon to be released podcast (scheduled to go live tomorrow) but we finally got confirmation via the Motorsport site lastnight. BMW Motorsport will be building customer race-cars based on the current Z4 but with two huge additions. For one the car will have a fixed roof and a built-in rollcage. Secondly (and much more interesting) the car will feature the 480 bhp V8 taken straight from the GT4 M3 race-car. We’ll get to how this could translate into a road car in a second, but first, here’s the full release:
As part of its customer racing programme, BMW Motorsport is offering private teams another attractive car from 2010: the BMW Z4 GT3. This sports car is an impressive addition to the BMW product range and offers drivers and teams the opportunity to compete in international and national championships in accordance with GT3 regulations – such as the FIA GT3 European Championship, International GT Open and the ADAC GT Masters – as well as in 24-hour endurance races.
The BMW Z4 GT3 is powered by a four-litre, eight-cylinder engine producing approximately 480 bhp. When it comes to electronics, the private teams can look forward to innovative BMW solutions, which have proven themselves in the BMW M3 GT2: the engine is controlled by the modern ECU 408, while the Power400 control unit is responsible for operating all actuators. The transmission takes place via a sequential, six-speed gearbox. The scope of delivery also includes rims with locking and safety clips, as well as racing ABS and optional air conditioning.
It’s //M week on the BimmerCast. In this episode we talk about the GTS and why it’s not called the CSL. And of course you’ll hear our takes on the new track-day special from the M Division. We also uncover some of what’s in store of 1 Series fans in the way of M versions. In short, a lot. You’ll want to listen if you’re interested in a lightweight, high performance M product that costs less than the current M3.
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We believe in the old school BMW ownership experience. We believe in garage nights with a six pack and some friends. We believe in 2002s, in E30 M3s and E34 540s with the 6 speed. We believe in progress in both design and engineering but we haven't lost sight of what made the brand and its products great all those years ago. And yes, we believe in the manual transmission.
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Sections: //M3 GTS, Official News Feb 2nd, 2010 5 Comments 
