BMW have just released yet another special edition M3 model. This time it’s called the M3 CRT, and yes, the primary aim of the car is to cut weight. The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) features a range of carbon-fiber components, which when added up account for around (154 lbs) 70 kgs of weight loss off the M3′s already svelte frame. However its not just the fact the M3 CRT has some trick carbon fiber bits that’s the real news, instead BMW is keen to highlight the high-tech manufacturing method in which the components are made. The same process of manufacturing complicated carbon fiber components and bodypanels will be used when BMW starts manufacturing the i3 and i8 models.
The BMW M3 CRT features a carbon fiber hood which is made from two CRFP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) moldings with a honeycomb structure in between. The hood weighs roughly a quarter of a comparable steel hood, and around 50 per cent less than the standard M3′s aluminium hood.
The new method of processing and forming carbon fiber is also used to create the M3 CRT’s seats. Here, the CFRP layers are wrapped around a recycled paper honeycomb structure, with carbon layers made using conventional production technology added to visible areas. CFRP is also used to make both the rear spoiler of the BMW M3 CRT and the lip spoiler at the front.
Aside from the carbon fiber bits and pieces, BMW have also had a bit of a fiddle with the M3 CRT’s engine. Basically, what they’ve done is give the CRT the same engine they fitted to the M3 GTS, a 450 hp 4.4 litre V8 which develops 324 lb-ft (440 Nm) of torque from 3,750 rpm. They’ve also given the M3 CRT the GTS’ 7-speed double-clutch transmission, specially calibrated to make best use of the engines extra power.
With the added oomph, coupled with the lower weight, the M3 CRT gets from 0-62 mph (100km/h) in just 4.4 seconds, two-tenths of a second faster than the standard M3.
The chassis of the BMW M3 CRT also benefits from the company’s racing knowledge. The car’s front and rear axle construction has been enhanced by a rigid rear axle subframe and coilover suspension whose dampers are individually adjustable in their compression and rebound. The six-piston calipers and high performance brakes of the BMW M3 CRT are lighter than the standard M3′s which helps to reduce unsprung weight. The vented brake discs measure 378 x 32 millimetres at the front axle and 380 x 28 millimetres at the rear. The new M3 variant also uses Stahlflex brake lines and model specific brake pads.
The specially tuned DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – including ABS and M Dynamic Mode (MDM) – responds to both the greater dynamic potential of the BMW M3 CRT and its optimised axle load distribution.
Aside from the aforementioned carbon fiber goodies, the BMW M3 CRT can be identified by the exclusive Frozen Polar Silver metallic paint and contrasting Melbourne Red metallic highlights. Inside, the M3 CRT comes with matching exclusive door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure.
Each car has an individually numbered plaque on the glovebox. The highest number you’ll see on this plaque is 67.
