2010 BMW Z4 GT3 Race Car Launched In Europe

LAST NOVEMBER SAW BMW unveil a high performance track-ready coupe in the form of the M3 GTS. Today, the German carmaker has officially launched the Z4 GT3 race car, the first units already en route to their privateer owners.

The news follows the launch last year of BMW's roadgoing Z4 sDrive35is, producing 254kW and arriving in Australia in May.

Drawing 360kW from an uprated version of the M3's 4.0 litre V8, the racing Z4 is built to FIA GT3 specifications, allowing it to race in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the International GT Open and the ADAC GT Masters.

A track-only prospect, the Z4 GT3 gets downforce-inspiring front and rear wings, along with a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic bonnet, roof and quarter panels. Thanks to these elements and the stripped out interior, the Z4 GT3 weighs in at just 1200kg.

Specific technical details for the Z4 GT3 are limited, but BMW has confirmed that like the M3 GT2, the Z4 GT3's engine is managed by the company's 408 ECU and the Power400 control unit.

The upgraded V8 is paired with a six-speed sequential transmission, and ultra-light racing wheels with locking and safety clips, along with racing ABS complete the package.

Price? In Europe, the Z4 GT3 will run you €298,000 (AU$437,800), and if you want to race one here in Australia, you'll need to get in touch with BMW's Munich headquarters directly.