GT cars are an interesting, varied bunch. Anything from an SLS AMG to a Corvette can be run as long as it satisfies the rules and regulations stipulated by FIA, along with specific homologation status. Of course in reality, these race cars are quite far removed from the road-going models that we’re used to seeing- but it’s still pleasant and familiar to see something reminiscent of a road car hammering down some twisty asphalt. The M6 GT3 follows on from the M3 GT3 and the Z4 GT3 before it, being the new figurehead for BMW’s GT racing program. It is designed to take part in both local and international races, as well as to go toe to toe with the best of the best in endurance racing. While the program for development begins now, BMW is aiming to field these cars for the 2016 season.
The M6 GT3 is powered by a 4.4-litre V8 M TwinPower Turbo production engine, which has been the subject of modifications for its use on the racetrack. It has dry sump lubrication and generates over 500 hp, with a total car weight of less than 1,300 kilograms. If that power figure seems a little bit low, it’s because it is: the road going variants of the engine produce circa 560 hp: usually racecar engines are fitted with restrictors as per competition regulations, but even with this handicap the cars are impressively quick. Note that the 1300 kg kerb weight is roughly half a tonne lighter than the road going model, and aerodynamics help a large part with carrying massive speed through corners.
The BMW M6 Coupé provides an ideal basis, on which the BMW Motorsport engineers have worked meticulously to hone the BMW M6 GT3 for use in motor racing. Priority was given to ensuring the drivers are as safe as physically possible. To offer the drivers of the BMW M6 GT3 as much protection as possible against injury, BMW Motorsport itself developed and produced the FIA-approved safety cell, which complies with the very latest safety standards. The engineers also placed great emphasis on efficiency, ease of maintenance and reliability, which is particularly crucial at the 24-hour classics.
