BMW M4 GT4 debuts with notable improvements
After having completed the test laps around the Nurburgring, clothed in full camouflage, the BMW M4 GT4 racecar has finally broken cover.
The track-only M4 GT4 is earmarked to go into production in October 2022 to allow the first cars to be delivered to teams in time for the start of the 2023 season.
“We took on the challenge to develop a successor to the highly successful first-generation BMW M4 GT4”, said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M. “Using a wide range of customer feedback, our experienced development team and the new sixth generation BMW M4 based production car has led to a faster, even more reliable and very emotional all new BMW M4 GT4.”
In terms of dimensions, the M4 GT4 is 4,863 mm long, 2,093 mm wide and sits 1,368 mm high. The wheelbase measures 2,857 mm.
With the new M4 GT4, BMW says developers have focused on four key areas; performance, reliability, cost efficiency and maintainability while also improving the ergonomics and electronics. These include the M Track Cockpit, which makes many vehicle settings and checks possible directly via the control elements, thereby minimising the more time-consuming connection to a laptop.
Powering the M4 GT4 is a 3.0-litre in-line straight-six engine that can push up to 405 kW and 650 Nm of torque depending on the regulations. It makes use of a ZF 7-speed automatic transmission with motorsport software, Drexler limited-slip differential with separate temperature-controlled auxiliary cooling plus motorsport-optimised driveshafts.
Other technical highlights include air conditioning, a heated windscreen as standard, M Track cockpit, Fanatec GT4 illuminated steering wheel with various controls, 10-step traction control, purpose-built Recaro safety seat with ventilation, fixed position and BMW M4 GT4 branding.
The interior and exterior are made from lightweight natural fibre by Bcomp, an engine bonnet with aero-designed louvres. There is an adjustable GT3 concept Motorsport rear wing, five-level adjustable motorsport anti-roll bar front and rear, and purpose-built KW 2-way Motorsport shock absorbers with three different H&R spring rates.
The BMW M4 GT4 is entering the final phase of testing and this will see the car taking part in the next race of the Nürburgring Endurance Series and in the 24 Hours of Portimão.