In the year since BMW->ke178 Motorsport launched the 2010 Z4 GT3, the race car has achieved great success in the GT3 class series, including a ground-breaking win at the Dubai 24 Hours earlier this year. But despite the car’s competitiveness, BMW knew that it still needed a few improvements. So, the Bavarian automaker let loose and built the new and improved 2011 Z4 GT3 racer.

According to BMW, the goal for the latest version of the Z4->ke289 GT3 racer is to primarily improve its aerodynamic efficiency to make it more competitive against its rivals in the GT3 class.

Noticeable improvements done on the new version include an elongated bonnet, a long wheelbase, and the narrow wheel arches. The car was also given a steel body courtesy of the BMW plant in Regensburg, Germany and a safety cell made of sturdy steel tubing that’s welded into the body. Likewise, BMW made good use of carbon fiber reinforced plastics, dressing up the car with the strong yet lightweight material on the front and rear wings, the bonnet, roof, and fenders, among other components.

Another difference between the standard road-going Z4 and the racing variant is the powertrain. Whereas the former came with a six-cylinder engine, the latter was given a more powerful 4.4-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The car is now being sold to racing teams for €315,000, which is about $454,000 based on current exchange rates.

2011 BMW Z4 GT3

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 BMW Z4 GT3
  • Engine/Motor: 4.4-liter V8 engine
  • Transmission: six-speed sequential gearbox
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

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