BMW E36 M3: Beyond the Base Model – A Tour of Unique Variants

BMW E36 M3: Beyond the Base Model – A Tour of Unique Variants

M3 GTR

White BMW E36 GTR parked inside of a building
BMW M3 GTR with race livery going into the pits, huge stadium stands behind the car
BMW E36 M3 GTR with a race livery at the infamous Daytona International Speedway
in Daytona Beach, Florida
Source: BMW
TrimProductionEnginePowerTransmissionDrivetrain
M3 GTR1992 – 19994.0L P60B40 V8444 HP / 450 PS / 331 kW6-Speed ManualRWD
Approx. performance specs for the Special Edition models

The BMW M3 GTR was a race-bred variant of the E36 M3 designed for competition in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS). In order for BMW to enter with this version of the car, they had to produce a street production car, hence the M3 GTR or the Strassenversion (Street Version). It featured a potent 4.0-liter V8 engine, generating an astonishing 450 horsepower, making it a formidable force on the racetrack. To accommodate the larger engine, the GTR had a widened body and distinctive aerodynamic enhancements, including a prominent rear wing and aggressive front splitter. The interior was stripped down to the essentials, emphasizing weight reduction and racing ergonomics. The M3 GTR was produced in limited numbers, primarily for motorsport purposes, and remains a legendary icon in BMW’s racing heritage.

White BMW E36 GTR driving on a racetrack
Johnny Cecotto driving the M3 GTR in 1993.
Source: BMW
Warsteiner Race Livery on BMW E36 GTR

One Response

  1. I bought my US version in 1995. Never complained about making the payment. 😉 Bilstein / HR sport springs with Turner Motorsport sway bars make the handling even more impressive and greatly reduces body roll. Front Strut Bar, X Brace and Rear Shock tower bar tighten the chassis. Upgrade intake system with Euro Airbox, 3.5 Air mass , larger throttle body , Stage 3 Dinan chip , Billy Boat exhaust and free flowing Cats add that extra punch the engine needed. I had the manager for dealership where I bought it in 95 tried to buy it back. You will pry it from my dead hands and then it goes to my son. Absolutely Fantastic Car and is a blast on track days … ENJOY !

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