The BMW E46 GTR is a race car that was produced by BMW Motorsport in 2001. It was designed specifically for use in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), and was based on the E46 M3 platform. The car was powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 444 horsepower and was mated to a six-speed sequential transmission. It had a top speed of 180 mph.
The E46 GTR was extremely successful in its first year of competition, winning the GT class championship in the ALMS. However, controversy surrounded the car’s dominance, as it was later revealed that BMW had exploited a loophole in the rules to gain an unfair advantage. As a result, the car was eventually banned from competition.
Despite its short-lived racing career, the E46 GTR remains a highly sought-after and iconic BMW race car. Its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and racing heritage have made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors. The limited production numbers and its status as a banned race car have only added to its mystique and allure.