Carbon Racing Technology.
The newest M3 to bear the “limited-edition” status can be looked at as a production concept car. While only 67 examples will be made, the BMW M3 CRT is a showcase of new carbon fiber production methods and technology. BMW has used carbon fiber extensively in the limited-production E90 M3, thus resulting in a lower power-to-weight ratio than previous M3 models. The new BMW M3 CRT also features a number of motorsport-inspired chassis, engine, and aerodynamic enhancements that almost rival its GTS sibling.
The most important innovation featured on the new BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) is the usage of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) components throughout the sedan. The new CFRP is produced using a new, innovative manufacturing process that allows for the widespread use of the lightweight material. With this new process, excess cuttings can also be reprocessed. Basic carbon fiber thread is woven into CFRP mats and then impregnated with synthetic resin then left to harden. With many of the new components the CFRP is then wrapped in either an aramid or recycled paper honeycomb structure that gives the component ever greater strength and durability.
There are numerous exterior enhancements to the new carbon fiber M3. At the front, the bumper wears a new CFRP air channeling elements with a Melbourne Red metallic accent. The entire hood was made from two CFRP layers wrapped around a honeycomb structure, giving the hood the same strength as a steel component at a quarter of the weight, and is 50 percent lighter than the production hood. The hood also uses two air outlets with Melbourne Red highlights to help dissipate heat. At the rear sits a new CFRP trunk-mounted spoiler for additional downforce. After all of the new carbon fiber goodies, the new BMW M3 CTR weighs in at 3,483lbs.; a 100 lb. (or 154 lb. if you consider equipment) reduction in weight over the production M3. The entire M3 CRT is dressed in an exclusive Frozen Polar Silver metallic paint and is highlighted by new Melbourne Red metallic accents and a special kidney bean grille treatment.
The M3 CRT isn’t limited to just exterior upgrades. The chassis, brakes, and wheels have been improved as well. A new rigid rear axle subframe and adjustable coilover suspension has been added. Upgraded six-piston fixed-caliper lightweight brakes have been installed and clamp down on 378 x 32 mm front and 380 x 28 mm rear ventilated brake discs with Stahlflex lines and model specific comfort pads. Hiding the upgraded brakes are 19J x 19 front and 10J x 19 rear M-Sport wheels with a Y-spoke design with 245/35 R19 front and 265/35 R19 rear tires.
Under the CFRP hood is the GTS-version of the M3’s V8. The 4.4 liter features an aluminum-silicon alloy bedplate, individual throttle butterflies, a knock control system with ion current technology, and a dynamically-optimized wet-sump oil supply. The total output for the V-8 is set at 450 horsepower at 8,300 RPM, and 325 lb-ft. of torque at 3,750 RPM. Power is sent to the rear wheels though a lightning-fast seven-speed dual-clutch M DCT Drivelogic gearbox with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs) per horsepower and a 450 horsepower V-8, the M3 CRT can accelerate to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).
Inside, the BMW M3 CRT features a number of exclusive upgrades and lightweight features. The bucket seats are made by wrapping CFRP around a recycled-paper honeycomb with traditional carbon fiber. Instead of the bench seating in the rear, the CRT is equipped with two individual bucket seats in Sakhir Orange and Black bi-color leather. New door sills, door panels, and trim pieces come in exclusive aluminum grain and Sakhir Orange coloring.
The new BMW E90 M3 CRT will be limited to just 67 examples. Pricing has not been released.
BMW E90 M3 CRT Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 4.4 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Bore x Stroke (mm): 82 x 92
Compression Ratio: 12.0:1
Maximum Horsepower: 450 (331 kW) at 8,300 RPM
Maximum Horsepower: 325 lb-ft. (440 Nm) at 3,750 RPM
Transmission:
Type: Seven-speed M Sport DCT dual-clutch
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.4 seconds
Top Speed: 180 mph (290 km/h)
Wheels, Suspension, and Brakes:
Wheels: M-Sport light alloy; Y-Spoke design; cast aluminum
Front Wheels: 9J x 19
Rear Wheels: 10J x 19
Front Tires: 245/35 R19
Rear Tires: 265/35 R19
Suspension (front): Aluminum dual-joint spring strut suspension; small,positive steering roll radius; transverse force compensation; anti-dive.
Suspension (rear): Five-link axle in lightweight construction with rigid rear axle subframe, anti-squat and anti-dive.
Front Brakes: Six-piston fixed-caliper compound disc; Diameter mm 378 x 32, vented and perforated
Rear Brakes: Six-piston fixed-caliper compound disc; Diameter mm 380 x 28, vented and perforated
Exterior:
-CFRP front bumper lip
-CFRP hood with air outlets
-CFRP rear spoiler
-Special kidney bean grille treatment
Interior:
-CFRP front and rear bucket seats with Skhira Orange and Black leather
-Alcantara steering wheel
-Exclusive door sills, door panels, and trim in aluminum grain structure
BMW E90 M3 CRT Video
BMW E90 M3 CRT Gallery
[Source: BMW]
Would you prefer the M3 GTS or the M3 CRT? Leave a comment and let us know!
