Hardcore BMW followers know the fourth-generation M3 isn't the first M-powered 3-Series to sport a V8 powerplant. Way back in 2001, the boys Bayerische built a run of 10 M3 GTR models, each powered by a 4.0-liter V8 producing 350 horsepower for the street (450 for the track). The GTR was created as a homologation model to qualify for the American Le Mans Series. That was back when the series required just one car to be sold publicly. These days, ALMS demands constructors build a series run of 100 cars to compete without penalty. Still, the GTR remained the most powerful M3 ever built until the 2003 E46 BMW M3 CSL, which was propelled by a 360-hp inline six. Nonetheless, the GTR's price came in at upward of $300,000, though that's sounds like a bargain, considering the M3 GTR is probably a top-five BMW collectible.
[via Paul Tan]
Related:
More on the BMW M3 [internal]