Background
BMW M4 GTS (F82) was the most radical and track-focused production version of the first-generation BMW M4. Unveiled in 2015 and produced in 2016, the special edition also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the BMW M3. BMW M GmbH created the car to demonstrate how far the performance potential of the M4 could be developed while retaining full road legality.
Developed for the track, legal for the road
The M4 GTS differed substantially from the standard M4 Coupé through more aggressive aerodynamics and extensive weight reduction. Carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic was used for the bonnet, roof, adjustable front splitter and large rear wing. Lightweight composite materials were also used for the boot lid and rear diffuser. A titanium rear silencer contributed further weight savings, helping to reduce DIN kerb weight to 1,510 kg.
500 hp and water injection
The BMW M4 GTS was powered by the 3.0-litre S55 twin-turbocharged straight-six engine. Its most important technical innovation was a water injection system, which sprayed a fine mist of water into the intake plenum. As the water evaporated, it reduced intake-air temperature, allowing higher boost pressure and more advanced ignition timing. Output increased from 431 hp in the standard M4 to 500 hp, while maximum torque rose to 600 Nm.
3.8 seconds and 305 km/h
Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a 7-speed M DCT dual-clutch transmission. The BMW M4 GTS accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and reached an electronically limited top speed of 305 km/h. Its specially developed suspension, adjustable aerodynamics and high-performance braking system were designed primarily for demanding circuit use.
7 minutes and 28 seconds
The M4 GTS demonstrated its capabilities on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, where BMW M engineer Jörg Weidinger recorded a lap time of 7 minutes 28 seconds. This was an exceptionally fast result for a road-legal BMW at the time and confirmed the GTS as the most focused version of the F82 generation.
Clubsport Package and OLED lights
An optional Clubsport Package included a roll cage, six-point harnesses and a fire extinguisher. The M4 GTS also featured a specially developed three-way adjustable coilover suspension and M Carbon Ceramic brakes. Another technological highlight was the use of OLED rear lights, representing a highly innovative lighting solution for a production car.
Only 700 cars
The BMW M4 GTS was produced in 2016 at BMW Plant Munich in Germany. A total of just 700 cars were built, making it one of the most exclusive models of the F82 generation. The M4 GTS continued a long tradition of special BMW M models that included the M3 GT, M3 CSL and M3 GTS.
Model in the collection
The BMW M4 GTS (F82) in my collection was produced by Minichamps and represents a 2016 car. It is a limited-edition model, with a total production run of 336 examples.
Technical data in brief
Model debut: 2015
Production year: 2016
Production location: BMW Plant Munich, Germany
Body style: two-door high-performance coupé
Engine: S55, 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six
Displacement: 2,979 cm³
Power: 500 hp / 368 kW @ 6,250 rpm
Torque: 600 Nm @ 4,000–5,500 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed M DCT
Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive
0–100 km/h: 3.8 seconds
Top speed: 305 km/h, electronically limited
Weight: 1,510 kg DIN
Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time: 7:28
Production: 700 cars
Special feature: limited-production BMW M model featuring water injection, extensive lightweight construction and a highly track-focused chassis