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BMW Motorsport. Media Guide 2011. BMW Motorsport Media Guide 2011. Contents.

Introduction...... 5 Customer Racing...... 126 Foreword BMW Motorsport BMW 320 TC: Director Mario Theissen...... 5 The new challenger...... 128 Hunters and the hunted: BMW Team RBM in profile...... 136 BMW Motorsport in 2011...... 6 BMW Z4 GT3: Interview with Mario Theissen...... 12 Even stronger for 2011...... 142 Interview with Jens Marquardt...... 16 BMW M3 GT4: Successful model for close-to-production racing...... 150 Endurance Racing...... 18 BMW Sports Trophy: A guarantee for victories: More than a sports competition..... 156 The BMW M3 GT in profile...... 18 Extra know-how with every lap...... 28 History...... 160 BMW Team Schnitzer in profile...... 32 BMW M3 History...... 162 BMW Team RLL in profile...... 38 At home in touring racing...... 164 The BMW Motorsport drivers...... 44 The ...... 86 Partners...... 166 ...... 96 Intercontinental Le Mans Cup...... 116 Service...... 170

3 Foreword. BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen.

It is with great anticipation and excite- The highlight of the ILMC season is the ment that we embark upon the 2011 24-hour race in Le Mans. Following our season, once again offering BMW fans return to the ‘’ last around the world an extensive and year, we are now aiming for a top finish in ­attractive programme of motorsport. At the GTE category. the heart of this is the BMW M3 GT, the car which we will again use to compete At the same time, Customer Racing in classic endurance races and presti­ ­remains a core feature of our program- gious championships. me. A number of private teams will ­compete in the 2011 World Touring Car As in 2009 and 2010, BMW Team RLL ­Championship with the new BMW 320 will line up with this car to contest the TC. I am certain this car will be pushing entire American Le Mans Series (ALMS). strongly for victories over the course of Last year, ’s team won both the season. With victory in the 24-hour the Team and Manufacturer Champion­ race in Dubai, the BMW Z4 GT3 has ships in the hard-fought GT class. We been proving its competitiveness since now want to continue this success. The the start of the year, and will be in action drivers in particular are also keen to in several different championships in ­target the Drivers’ Championship title. 2011. The close-to-production BMW M3 GT4 completes our offer for private Two races in the ALMS will count to- BMW teams. wards the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (ILMC), in which BMW Motorsport will For me personally, this will be my last again be competing this year. BMW season start as BMW Motorsport Team Schnitzer is responsible for racing ­Director. From 1 July, Jens Marquardt the two BMW M3 GT in and will take over responsibility for the at the series Asian leg in . Fol- ­motorsport ­activities of BMW. I would lowing its victory at the 2010 ILMC finale like to take this opportunity to thank you in , the team has shown just what for your positive collaboration over the can be achieved with our car in this years and wish you all a successful specification. 2011 season.

Sincerely

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SEASON 2011

Hunters and the hunted. BMW Motorsport in the 2011 season.

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SEASON 2011

hard-fought championship races in to defend its titles – and add the Drivers’ Cup celebrated its debut last year with Appetite for ­North America, Europe and . BMW Championship to its list of honours. By three exciting races. In the season finale Motorsport starts not only in the Ameri- scoring a one-two in this year’s 12 Hours in Zhuhai (CN), BMW Team Schnitzer more. can Le Mans Series (ALMS) but also in of Sebring (US), the team took the first ­drove to victory in the LM GT2 class. the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup step towards this goal. This season, there will be a total of seven (ILMC). In the ALMS, BMW Team RLL ­races on the programme, including the will wear the brand’s colours, as it did in In the two races which simultaneously f­amous 24-hour race in Le Mans (FR). In the 2011 season, BMW Motorsport is 2009 and 2010. count towards the ILMC, RLL will also looking to continue its long history of be looking to pick up points and victory (GB), (BR) success in GT racing and push its com- The goal for this season was set by last in the new GTE class. BMW Team and Jörg Müller (DE) are the main dri- mitment to this discipline into even more season’s results: after winning the Team Schnitzer starts for BMW in the four vers for BMW Team Schnitzer. Priaulx territories. The BMW M3 GT will be and Manufacturer Championships in the ­European ILMC races and the race in and ­Farfus will also compete in the North competing in endurance classics and GT category, BMW Team RLL is looking China. The Intercontinental Le Mans American ILMC races for BMW Team

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SEASON 2011

RLL. They support their fellow BMW dri- New for the BMW Customer Racing This year, the BMW Sports Trophy cele- vers Dirk Müller (DE) and programme. brates a milestone anniversary: at the (DE) and the two Bill Auber- Customer Racing is also a central pillar end of the year, BMW will honour the len and , who will compete for in the motorsport programme of BMW most successful private racing drivers in points and victories throughout the enti- in 2011. The year began with a bang: in BMW cars for the 50th time and award re ALMS season. Like last year, Uwe mid-January, the an overall prize fund of 250,000 Euros. ­Alzen (DE), (PT) and Dirk Team won the 24-hour race in Dubai In countless racing series around the Adorf (DE) complete the strong BMW (AE) with the BMW Z4 GT3. There world, participants can earn points for ­Motorsport driving contingent in 2011. shouldn’t be long to wait for more wins: the BMW private driver rankings. In an upgrade kit will be made available by 2010, the record field of 214 drivers Marathon outing. BMW Motorsport Distribution, which will from 25 different countries were an While it is consistency that counts over make the racing car more competitive. ­impressive proof of the huge interest in the course of the ALMS and ILMC the BMW Motorsport Customer Racing seasons, all of the excitement and Preparations for the season with the programme. tension of motorsport come together in new BMW 320 TC, powered by a 1.6-lit- Le Mans within just 24 hours. re turbo-charged four-cylinder engine with direct injection, have also proved On 11 and 12 June, Team BMW Motor- successful. A strong complement of sport will head to the “Circuit de la ­private drivers will compete in the FIA ­Sarthe”, where the open-top prototype World Touring Car Championship with BMW V12 LMR celebrated overall victo- the successor to the BMW 320si WTCC, ry in 1999. Last year, the with which Priaulx won the world title in ­designed BMW M3 GT2 Art Car caused 2006 and 2007. Teams are not only able a sensation in Le Mans. After finishing to compete in the WTCC with the BMW sixth in the rankings in the 2010 LM GT2 320 TC, but also in many other series category, the team under manager held according to FIA Super2000 regu- ­Charly Lamm (DE) is looking to do even lations. The BMW M3 GT4 remains the better this year. ideal car for close-to-production motor- sport in 2011.

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SEASON 2011

Interview. Mario Theissen.

Mr Theissen, what expectations does What is so attractive about the Inter­ BMW Motorsport have going into the continental Le Mans Cup? season? “The Intercontinental Le Mans Cup “The expectations depend very much ­celebrated a successful debut in 2010 on the respective area of involvement. In – and we were immediately able to the American Le Mans Series, BMW ­triumph in the LM GT2 class in the Team RLL has worked its way to the top season finale in Zhuhai. We would like to and reaped the rewards of this labour in continue to support this young series 2010 by winning titles in the GT class. It and send two cars to the starting grids. is clear we also want to be at the very The ILMC brings the fascination of the top this season in the finale in Road At- Le Mans 24 Hours to race tracks around lanta. The highlight of the Intercontinen- the world.” tal Le Mans Cup is the 24-hour race in Le Mans, in which we are looking to per- How did the new vehicle description form better than we did in 2011. At the of the BMW M3 GT come about? same time, we are supporting our BMW “Since the debut of the race version of private drivers across the world to notch the BMW M3 in 2009, the GT racing up victories for BMW.” ­environment has changed – including the descriptions of the different classes. With the ALMS and ILMC, the BMW In that sense, there is no longer any M3 GT will be featuring on three ­single GT2 class. For that reason, we’ve ­continents. How important is this ­stripped back the description of the ­international focus to you? BMW M3 to its essentials: this car is the “The tight dove-tailing of the American BMW M3 designed to be raced suc- Le Mans Series and the International Le cessfully in the GT category – the BMW Mans Cup means our racing program- M3 GT.” mes in North America and Europe have moved even closer together. And of course, for an automobile manufacturer, the event in China is also very interes- ting. Competing in the ALMS and the ILMC are two essential components of our presence in international endurance racing with the BMW M3 GT.”

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SEASON 2011

And at the same time, preparations You will be handing over responsi­ for the DTM comeback are in full bility for BMW Motorsport to Jens swing… ­Marquardt on 1 July. Are you going to “Yes, we are right on track with the deve- miss racing? lopment of the BMW M3 DTM and aiming “I think I’ll only be able to answer that in to roll out the car midway through the a few months’ time. Until then, I want to year. The proper testing programme inte- contribute my part to ensure continued grating our three teams will then follow in success for BMW on the race track, just the second half of the year. The entire as I did over the last 12 years. In my time BMW Motorsport team is looking forward as BMW Motorsport Director, I have hugely to this exciting phase and is wor- ­experienced everything: incredible king at full tilt.” ­triumphs, such as our win in Le Mans in 1999 or the one-two with the BMW ­Sauber F1 Team in Canada in 2008. Of course there have also been huge ­disappointments, like when victory was snatched away from us just 40 minutes from the end of last year’s 24-hour race in Spa-Francorchamps. I wouldn’t want to have missed out on any of these ­experiences.”

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SEASON 2011

Interview. Jens Marquardt.

Mr Marquardt, what is your impres­ Is it a good thing to be working sion after your first few months with ­together with Mario Theissen? BMW Motorsport? Marquardt: “Absolutely. The six months “Hugely positive. I have been wel­ working with him have been totally in- comed very warmly and been able to valuable in ensuring that the handover get to know the department very well. goes smoothly. Mario Theissen has Our project environment is very diver- built up an incredible internal and ex- se. Over the winter, we had time to ternal network over the last 30 years. ­analyse the individual projects and in­ We are working hard to make sure that, creased our performance thanks to as far as possible, I can take this over. ­intensified work. The team is highly Due to many links between our current motivated and is performing incredibly motor racing projects and the produc- well. That’s why I feel we are well tion of our road cars, it’s essential to be ­positioned going into this season.” closely allied with BMW AG as well.”

What does a normal working day Which races in 2011 are you most look like for you? excited about? “I am already involved in all decision- “The BMW Motorsport programme for making processes. It’s a great help for 2011 is incredibly diverse. BMW fans getting an overview of all the proces- from around the world can look forward ses, developments and designs. I am to a thrilling season and a host of trying to get to know all my colleagues ­action-packed races.” as quickly as possible and share my philosophy with them. In motorsport, it is essential for everyone to be pulling together.”

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BMW M3 G T

A guarantee for victories. The BMW M3 GT in profile.

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BMW M3 G T

The series version’s eight-cylinder ­demand-controlled auxiliaries and The ECU408 monitors the “Quick The ­engine with 4.0-litre capacity already ­cylinder cut-off, as used in the BMW Shift” function of the six-speed se- produces 420bhp. The BMW P65 EfficientDynamics technology pack­ quential gearbox on the BMW M3 GT, strongest ­engine, which was derived from this age, the BMW M3 GT is redefining the which suppresses the ignition when unit and powers the BMW M3 GT, has boundaries of consumption. changing gear, thus allowing even fas- BMW M3 of been further improved within the regu- ter gear changes. The compact trans- all times. lations. The eight individual throttle Intelligent solutions for use on the mission unit is positioned on the rear valves receive their intake air via a race track. axle to allow optimal weight distri­ ­system made of carbon fibre with load- Intelligent control systems are at work bution. The drivers are assisted by a charge optimised ram tubes. The in the BMW M3 GT. Via two bus sys- ­mechanical limited slip differential and Already in its fourth generation, the ­mechanics have been adjusted to meet tems, the POWER400 control unit traction control. BMW M3, the high-performance sports the extreme demands of GT and endu- ­actuates all the accessories fitted to car developed by BMW M GmbH on rance racing: as a result, the BMW P65 the car, such as lights, wipers, etc. The engineers have not only modified the basis of the BMW 3 Series Coupé, has a steel crankshaft, forged skirt ­Traditional relays and fuses are thus the power train for use in races, but demonstrates impressive sportiness – ­pistons, high-performance steel con- eli­minated, ensuring considerable also the . The front and rear regardless of whether the BMW M3 rods and a dry sump lubrication ­system. weight saving, improved reliability and ­axles on the BMW M3 GT have an Coupé for the road, the BMW M3 GTS This allows the engine to achieve ease of application. The functions of ­increased wheel castor angle, enlarged for club racing events, or the BMW M3 500bhp. the BMW P65 engine are managed track width and greater wheel camber GT at endurance races and GT clas- by an ECU408 electronic control than the series version. The shock sics. Due to this the BMW M3 GT is able to unit, ­developed in-house by BMW ­absorbers can be adjusted five ways perform the sprint from 0 to 100km/h ­Motorsport. This unit uses two high- and tubular stabiliser bars can be used When starting the development of the in 3.42 seconds. With 500cc per cylin- per­formance micro-processors to con- to set up the car for a specific track. BMW M3 GT in the middle of 2007, the der and the stroke to bore ratio of 72.5 trol the individual cylinder injection and BMW Motorsport engineers were ­faced x 92 millimetres, the engine fulfils the ­ignition, as well as the engine data with the ambitious task of making a car ideal conception of demanding engine ­memory system, among other things. that had already been designed for designers. The cylinder block is desig- sportiness even more sporty. They ned with a bed plate lower section and could hardly have dreamt of a better made of a special aluminium alloy. The basis for this mission than the BMW unit’s dimensions, capacities, number M3. The production model itself ­boasts of components and extremely light powerful dynamics. weight make it the perfect engine to use on the race track. Thanks to

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BMW M3 G T

Less weight, more wins. points on the axles. At the same time, Safety first. While high-performance compound Weight optimisation plays an important elaborate calculation programmes also Only one aspect has had a higher brakes ensure excellent deceleration in role for the development of a racing car. made it possible to simulate distortion ­priority for the BMW Motorsport engi- the BMW M3 Coupé, the brakes in the What has started with an intelligent of the chassis under extreme strain. neers when developing the car than BMW M3 GT have a fixed-calliper de- lightweight construction and the use of Using extensive investigations in the performance: driver safety. A safety sign. The aluminium brake callipers a carbon fibre roof in the road model, wind tunnel, the engineers were able cell made from extremely rigid, pre­ consist of six pistons on the front the BMW Motorsport engineers con- to verify the results of the CFD calcula- cision steel tubing is used in the BMW wheels and four pistons on the rear sequently continued in the BMW M3 tions before starting to build particular M3 GT. This is welded into the unitary wheels. The inner-vented grey-cast GT. The use of high-tech carbon fibre components. Maximum reliability and construction steel body and effectively iron brake discs on the BMW M3 GT2 reinforced plastics (CFRP) played a precision during these wind tunnel protects the driver in the case of a have a diameter of 378mm at the front crucial role in the car achieving a weight tests could be applied. ­collision. and 355mm at the rear. of 1,245 kilograms (in ACO specifica­ tion). As well as the roof of the BMW A hint of comfort is offered to the dri- The development and design of the As a development partner of BMW Mo- M3 GT, the front and rear aprons, vers by the air conditioning system, safety cell, which is produced by torsport, Dunlop equips the BMW M3 ­bonnet, boot lid, rocker panel, doors, when they are at the wheel of the BMW e­xperts at the BMW Plant Regensburg, GT with high-performance racing ­tyres, front wing, rear wing and flared rear M3 GT. In the American Le Mans takes place using CAD constructions which optimally transfer the accelerati- wheel arches are also made of carbon ­Series, regulations stipulate that tem- and computer-aided simulations. BMW on and braking torque to the track and fibre. peratures in the cockpit must not Motorsport is certified by the FIA as a are able to withstand extreme lateral ­exceed 32 degrees Celsius. Following CAD institute for safety cells. forces. The tyre manufacturer has been The aerodynamics of the BMW M3 GT a this figure needs to be re- involved in the development of the were fine-tuned for the 2011 season ached again within eight minutes. In On the track, the drivers are strapped GT sports car right from the word go. using computational fluid dynamics order to design the cooling as effec- into a new safety , developed by The BMW M3 GT takes to the track on (CFD) and the BMW Group‘s modern tively as possible, the passenger BMW Motorsport, using a six-point 18-inch wheels with magnesium rims. wind tunnels. The result is a new aero- ­compartment was limited by inserting belt. In the case of an accident, seat dynamics package with even greater a plastic screen behind the driver’s and driver can be lifted out of the car efficiency than last year‘s version. seat. This helps to minimise the ­cooling through the roof. In addition, the ­drivers ­requirements. are protected by HANS (Head-and- When developing the BMW M3 GT, it Neck Support), energy-absorbing foam was also possible to use computers to in hollow sections, and crash pads in optimise the geometry and kinematics the doors. of the chassis and determine the most efficient locations for attachment

22 23 BMW M3 GT. Technical specifications. »

BMW M3 G Length: 4,634mm Wheel base: 2,779mm Width: 1,912mm Weight: 1,245kg

Height: 1,280mm Tank capacity: 90 litres T All data referring to ACO specification.

Chassis/body: : Front axle: Front brake system: Unitary construction steel body with Carbon fibre clutch operated by hydrau- Increased wheel caster angle compared Six-piston aluminium brake callipers, welded safety cell made of extremely lic central slave cylinder; six-speed to the production version, enlarged track inner-vented grey-cast iron brake disks ­rigid precision steel tubing; safety fuel ­sequential racing transmission in tran- width and enhanced wheel camber; 378mm in diameter tank in CFRP sandwich tray; pneumatic saxle design with straight-cut, unsyn- ­five-way adjustable shock absorbers; four-stamp jack system chronized gears; additional oil/air cooler; tubular stabiliser bar Rear brake system: quick shift system with ignition cut-out Four-piston aluminium brake callipers, Aerodynamics: controlled by shifting force; mechanical Rear axle: grey-cast iron brake disk, 355mm in Front wings, rear apron, bonnet, roof, differential lock and additional oil/air Enlarged track width and enhanced ­diameter boot lid, rocker panel, doors, front wings, cooler wheel camber compared to the pro­ flared rear wheel arches and rear wing duction version; five-way adjustable Brake assistance: made of carbon fibre shock absorbers; tubular stabiliser bar ABS with integrated DSC function

24 25 Engine type: Eight-cylinder, V-configuration »

Capacity: 3,999cc BMW M3 G Bore x stroke: 92 x 75.2mm Compression ratio: 13.0:1

Max. output: 500bhp with air restrictor T Max. torque: approx. 500Nm Max. engine speed: 8,750rpm

Cylinder block: Lubrication: Aluminium cylinder block construction Dry sump lubrication with bed plate lower section Cooling: Crankshaft: Water/air cooler and oil/water heat Steel crankshaft ­exchanger

Pistons: Engine management: Forged skirt pistons BMW Motorsport ECU408 with two high-performance micro-processors; Conrods: individual cylinder injection; pit speed High-performance steel ­limiter; quick shift function; EML; inte­ grated traction control; VANOS control; Cylinder head: engine data memory system Aluminium DOHC (Double Over Head Camshaft); four valves per cylinder Wiring harness: Weight-optimised Valve train: Four overhead chain-driven camshafts, Ignition coil: valve actuation via rocker arms Eight high-performance pencil coils with integrated ignition drivers Steering: Steering wheel: Intake system: Rack and pinion steering with electro- Quick release multi-function steering Eight throttle valves, intake system Spark plugs: hydraulic power wheel with integrated display unit; made of carbon fibre with load-charge High-performance spark plugs ­integrated shifting paddles optimised ram tubes Wheels: Aluminium rims, front axle: 12x18 Energy management: Exhaust system: ­inches, rear axle: 13x18 inches Electric energy management and High-performance header, silencer ­monitoring with BMW Motorsport Cockpit: ­POWER400 control unit, networking Fuel system: Free programmable LCD Display with through two bus systems Single cylinder multi-point injection external shift indicating module

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BMW M3 G T

The BMW Research and Innovation knowledge gained in the Formula 1 A new idea, the conception stage, the Extra know- Centre (FIZ) plays a key role in creating ­project was integrated in the develop- construction process, the production of synergies between motorsport and ment process, as was the years of expe- necessary tools, the manufacturing of how with ­series production. This is the technical rience possessed by the engineers at the new part, the test phase – this is the heart of the BMW Group. Located close the Landshut Innovation and Technolo- cost and time-intensive process for every lap. to the plant, the research com- gy Center (LITZ). The ­experts there have ­innovations. Because motorsport plex is one of the highest state-of- ­ been dealing with CFRP components ­demands extremely fast reaction times the-art development centres for the since 1999. for progress and problem solving, the ­automobile industry in the world. Appro- hunt is on for short cuts. This is where ximately 7,000 engineers, modellers, The performance and durability of the BMW Motorsport can turn to the FIZ, One of the driving forces behind the computer specialists and scientists from engine block, cylinder head and gearbox and specifically to the Rapid Proto­ ­involvement of BMW in international various fields research and develop the depend crucially on the quality of the typing/Tooling Technology department. motorsport is the close cooperation vehicles and technologies of the future casting. This is where the BMW foundry ­between the motor racing department for the BMW Group here. in Landshut comes into its own. It forms As soon as the required parts have been and series production. BMW customers an integral part of the BMW Group pro- designed on a CAD system, machines ­benefit from the knowledge gained on High-tech everywhere. duction network. The components ma- controlled by computers use laser the race track. At the same time, the A diverse range of fundamental techno- nufactured here are supplied to engine ­beams or three-dimensional printing BMW Motorsport engineers access the logical principles, manufacturing pro­ and car plants around the world and are technology to produce scale models know-how of their colleagues from cedures and materials were derived used in virtually all vehicles – from BMW from resin, plastic powder, acrylate, wax ­series production to constantly improve from motor racing for the development motorcycles and BMW series cars to the or metal. This makes it possible to the competitiveness of BMW racing cars of the BMW M3. This becomes most BMW M3 GT racing car. For the produc- quickly simulate installation situations in a time and cost-efficient manner. obvious in the case of the roof of the tion of cylinder heads and crankcases, and interactions in order to be able to BMW series model. Made of CFRP and the specialists at the Landshut sand- make modifications before the final Short cuts and high flexibility – that is with only a clear coat covering its high- casting centre of technology have conti- manu­facturing process. what BMW’s racing division in Munich is tech surface, it openly displays the fib- nuously developed the recognised geared to. Speed is of the essence, rous structure. Using CFRP reduces sand-casting processes. whether it’s a matter of tuning, develop- weight and increases agility, thanks to ment work or production processes. At the car’s low centre of gravity. The use the end of 2005 BMW Motorsport of CFRP is widespread in racing. Virtu- ­moved into the new complex, which ally every complete body component of ­boasts state-of-the-art test rigs and the BMW M3 GT is made of this ­laboratories. ­ultra-light and rigid ma­terial. The CFRP

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Teamwork for success. The BMW teams in GT racing.

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TEA M S

In the LM GT2 class of the Interconti- BMW Team nental Le Mans Cup, the team led by Team Manager Charly Lamm also Schnitzer. caused a stir with victory in the season Profile. finale in Zhuhai (CN). For much of the 24-hour race at Spa-Francorchamps (BE), BMW Team Schnitzer looked on course for yet another victory but a technical problem with only 40 minu- In almost no other discipline is experi- tes to go meant it had to settle for third ence as important as in endurance place. ­racing. Drivers have to react to chan- ging conditions at lightning speed, with Over the course of almost 50 years, every decision about the race strategy Schnitzer has won a total 16 titles with potentially proving the difference bet- BMW – including the 1987 World Tou- ween victory and defeat. In 2011, BMW ring Car Championship, the DTM in will again enter the BMW M3 GT in 1989, three European Touring Car ­Europe and Asia with the proven com- Championships and national champion­ bination of BMW engineers and the ships in , England, , Japan race team of . and South-East Asia. In 1999, the team sprints. Between 2005 and 2009, “As part of our long cooperation with scored overall victory at the Le Mans Schnitzer celebrated 25 wins in the BMW, we have competed in the widest Last season, BMW Team Schnitzer 24 Hours with the BMW V12 LMR World Championship. Only a second possible variety of championships ­returned to endurance racing after many ­prototype. title win proved elusive. Since last around the world with many different successful years in – season, the focus has been back on BMW models,” summarises Lamm. “It and it did so with a bang. In their first In the 2001 American Le Mans Series, endurance racing, and BMW Team is hugely attractive for a team to con- start with the BMW M3 GT2 at a 24- the team won the GT class with Schnitzer is again showing its class. sistently be presented with new hour race, Jörg Müller, Augusto Farfus, the BMW M3 GTR. Following this, ­challenges. In 2011, we want to carry and Pedro Lamy ­secured ­Schnitzer Motorsport moved back into on where we left off last year with the ­victory at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. ­touring car racing in 2002 and showed ­victory in Zhuhai.” After 1989, 1990, 2004 and 2005 it was its class in the European Champion­ the fifth win for BMW Team Schnitzer in ship, no longer through endurance the “The Green Hell”. ­acing but through short 50-kilometre

32 33 Founded: 1963 Website: www.schnitzer.de Team owner:: Herbert Schnitzer Facts and figures. Team manager: Charly Lamm BMW Team Schnitzer. Headquarters: Freilassing (DE)

1966 1st place German Championship (BMW 2002 ti)

1968 – 1972 1st place European Hillclimb Championship »

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1975 1st place Formula 2 European Championship (Martini BMW) T

TEA M S 1976 2nd place GT Manufacturers’ World Championship (BMW 3.5 CSL) 1977 German Racing Championship (BMW 2002 turbo) 1978 1st place German Racing Championship (BMW 320) 1979 3rd place German Racing Championship (BMW 320) 1980 – 2009 12 victories in Macau’s ”Guia Race” 1983, 1986, 1988 1st place European Touring Car Championship 1985, 1986, 1988 1st place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps 1990, 1995 (BMW 635 CSi, BMW M3, BMW 320i) 1987 1st place World Touring Car Championship (BMW M3) 1989, 1991 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3) 1989 1st place DTM (BMW M3) 1989, 1990 1st place Italian Touring Car Championship (BMW M3) 1993 1st place British Touring Car Championship (BMW 318i) 1994 1st place Asia-Pacific Championship (BMW 318is) 1995 1st place Japanese Touring Car Championship (BMW 320i) 1st place ADAC Car Cup (BMW 320i) 1997 3rd place 24h race Le Mans (McLaren BMW) 2nd place FIA GT Championship (McLaren BMW) 1998 1st place German Super Touring Car Championship 1999 1st place 24h race Le Mans (BMW V12 LMR) 1st place 12h race Sebring (BMW V12 LMR) 2000 American Le Mans Series (BMW V12 LMR), 2 wins 2001 1st place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GTR) 2002 2nd and 4th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2003 2nd and 5th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2004 1st and 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) 2nd and 4th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2005 1st and 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) 2nd and 5th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320i) 2006 2nd and 6th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2007 4th and 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2008 6th and 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2009 3rd and 6th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2010 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GT2) 1st place LM GT2 class ILMC finale Zhuhai (BMW M3 GT2) Interview. Charly Lamm.

Mr Lamm, there are some exciting The 24 Hours of Le Mans are also challenges ahead for BMW Team back on the agenda… »

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Schnitzer in 2011. Are you looking “Yes, and we’re really looking forward TEA M S forward to the Intercontinental Le to it. Le Mans is not an easy race, of Mans Cup? course. The high-speed nature of the “It is great to be competing in this Sarthe circuit is unique, so it’s very championship again. Our starts in the hard to prepare for. The official test day ILMC last year gave us some really in April will definitely help all compe­ ­valuable experiences, and we were titors. Our experiences from last even able to notch up a win in the LM season will influence our preparations GT2 class at the finale in Zhuhai. That for this year’s race and that should really boosted the team’s work over help us. The Le Mans 24 Hours is a the­ ­winter months. In 2011, we want fascinating event, and a real season to build on our performances from last highlight for every team.” year. We have made some good ­progress with the BMW M3 GT and are going into the season full of confi- dence.”

In North America, BMW Team RLL will be representing BMW and com­ peting for ILMC points. Do you like this shared approach? “We work very closely with BMW Team RLL and, of course, we spend a lot of time exchanging ideas. This helps both of us and makes it easier to e­xploit the full potential of the BMW M3 GT. Our colleges at RLL have been competing for BMW in the American Le Mans Series, to which the North American races in the ILMC count, since 2009. So it was natural to keep the same division of responsibilities as last year. Of course, we will be eagerly following the races in Sebring and .”

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TEA M S

In 2010 the target was to confirm this BMW ­potential and build on previous succes- ses. BMW Team RLL passed this chal- Team RLL. lenge with flying colours – winning both Profile. Team and Manufacturer honours in the GT Class, in the process claiming the first ALMS titles for BMW since 2001.

The driver line-up played a major part in BMW Team Rahal Letterman Lanigan, these successes. and abbreviated as RLL, will again fly the flag ­ (US) rotated driving duties for BMW in the American Le Mans ­Series. in the no. 92 car, with Joey Hand and Dirk The team based in Hilliard (US) operates Müller doing likewise in the no. 90 sister closely with BMW of North America and car. The last-named duo also claimed its Motorsport Manager Larry Koch. victory in , repeating their ­Three well-known personalities form the success from the previous year. In nucleus of the team: Indy 500 winner and ­ad­dition, BMW Team RLL scored nine triple CART champion Bobby Rahal, TV further podium places. personality , and – new for the 2011 season – former IndyCar Therefore little reason exists to substan- The target for the entire team is clear: team owner Mike Lanigan. tially meddle with this winning recipe. BMW Team RLL aims to defend its Team Dirk Werner, who last year contested two and Manufacturer titles, plus win this Following major successes in the ALMS races, joins Bill Auberlen, Joey year’s drivers’ category. In parallel, strong ChampCar and IndyCar series, the team Hand and Dirk Müller in the team for the results will contribute to BMW Motor­ set its sights on the American Le Mans whole season. He will be paired with sport’s quest in the Intercontinental Le Series, and will again campaign a BMW ­Auberlen in the no. 55 BMW M3 GT, Mans Cup. The 2011 season got off to a M3 GT in the GTE class in 2011. In its with Hand and Müller sharing the no. 56 perfect start, when BMW Team RLL debut 2009 season the team scored entry. scored a one-two in the GT class in a one-two at Road America (US) in ­Sebring. ­addition to claiming numerous podium places.

38 39 Founded: 1992 Website: www.rahal.com Team owners: David Letterman, Facts and figures. Mike Lanigan, Bobby Rahal BMW Team RLL. Team manager: Jim Prescott Headquarters: Hilliard, Ohio (US) 2007 3rd place GT class ALMS Team classification ()

2009 3rd place GT class ALMS Team and Manufacturer »

G

classifications (BMW M3 GT2) T t EA M S 1st place GT class Okayama (BMW M3 GT2) 2010 1st place GT class ALMS Team and Manufacturer classifications (BMW M3 GT2) 2011 1st and 2nd place GT class 12h race Sebring (BMW M3 GT) Interview. Bobby Rahal.

Mr Rahal, does BMW Team RLL feel What makes you confident that BMW increased pressure after winning two Team RLL can add the driver title to »

G T

titles in 2010? its tally this year? TEA M S “We always feel pressure to perform, “We have a lot of resources behind us, especially in this programme as we not we have a great car, great support from only have to live up to our own Rahal BMW, a strong and experienced team Letterman Lanigan standards, but also from a strategic and an engineering those of BMW. That never changes standpoint, we have the fastest team in whether we are defending champions or the pit lane, and our drivers are talented running our first race in the series.” and committed. Those are some pretty good reasons to be confident.” How do you rate your line-up of dri­ vers? Which role does “Our driver line-up is one of our play in North America? strengths. If you look up and down pit “Sports car racing has a great heritage lane, while there are a number of solid in North America and true, pure sports drivers in this series, I think any team out car racing on some of the nation’s there would go to battle with a driver ­famous race tracks is still important to ­line-up like ours.” many, many people in North America. The and Canada have a How does the German and the Ame­ real love for racing and sports car racing rican mentality go together? is seen as perhaps the truest test of “I don’t know that it is necessarily the ­driving skill and automotive perfor- German and American mentality as mance.” much as how the RLL and the BMW mentalities must mesh for this to be successful. I think the attention to detail and regard for the process is the same on both sides and that has been a key component of our success.”

43 »

DRIVERS

Consistency in the cockpit. The BMW Motorsport drivers.

44 45 Facts and figures.

Born: 8 August 1973 in Guernsey (GB) Nationality: British Residence: Guernsey (GB) Marital status: Married, two children Website: www.andypriaulx.com

Milestones. 1984 Karting 1985 – 1990 Motocross »

This season Priaulx intends improving 1990 1st place Motocross 250cc Championship in the DRIVERS Andy upon his already illustrious record in clas- Channel Islands Priaulx. sic 24-hour events, established in part- 1991 – 1995 Hillclimb racing nership with BMW Team Schnitzer. His 1995 1st place RAC MSA British Hillclimb Championship Profile. trophy collection includes numerous 1996 cups won in marathons, with his biggest 1997 British Formula 3 Championship scholarship success to date in endurance racing 1998 Renault Spider Cup ­coming in 2005 with a win in the 2nd place Formula Palmer Winter Series In touring car racing Andy Priaulx has ­Nürburgring 24 Hours. He and team-­ 1999 1st place Renault Spider Cup, 13 wins from pole achieved every race driver’s highest mates Pedro Lamy (PT), (US) 2000 British Formula 3 Championship (Renault) ­ambitions. Between 2005 and 2007 the and (NL) steered a Formula 3 races in Macau and Korea Brit added three World Touring Car BMW M3 GTR to overall victory in the 2001 British Formula 3 Championship Cham­pionships to his 2004 European ­Eifel Mountains. 2nd place from pole in the F3 Super Prix in Korea title in the same category. With 18 2002 5th place British Touring Car Championship ­victories he also heads the all-time The BMW works driver’s winning recipe and in Queensland 500 ( TWR) WTCC winners list. However, pastures consists of an enviable mix of experience, 2003 3rd place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Great Britain new now await ­Priaulx: During 2011 he nous and supreme talent. Priaulx’s 1st place BMW Sports Trophy will concentrate upon the GT category ­potential was evident from an early age: 2004 1st place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Great Britain with BMW. Like father Graham, he quickly mastered 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GTR) hillclimbing, winning the 1995 British 2005 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team UK Priaulx will anchor the Intercontinental ­Formula 1 Hillclimb Championship. His 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) Le Mans Cup campaign of BMW Motor- single-seater racing debut followed Formula 1 tests with BMW WilliamsF1 Team sport. In races on American soil he will ­immediately. Three years later he claimed 2006 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team UK complement Dirk Müller and Joey Hand, the Renault Spider series, winning 13 2007 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team UK bolstering BMW Team RLL’s driver line- ­races in as many starts. A stint in British 2008 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team UK up. In European and Asian legs of the Formula 3 eventually paved the way for a Awarded MBE by Queen Elizabeth II ­series the driver from Guernsey in the switch to touring cars, a genre which he 2009 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team UK Channel Islands will line up for BMW quickly dominated. 2010 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team RBM Team Schnitzer.

46 Interview. Andy Priaulx.

Andy, you will start a new chapter in Is the main focus of your attention your career in 2011. Will you miss the ILMC or the 24-hour races? the WTCC? “I think it’s possible to focus on every- “Yes, I will a bit. It’s a great racing ­series thing. We have a fantastic programme and it has been a very successful time this year. You have to give 100 percent for me. But now is the right time for me in every race, regardless of whether it’s to take the next step in my career. My 24 or just six hours. I will simply con- » future duties with BMW are very centrate on my driving abilities and DRIVERS ­exciting and have given me a new won’t be differentiating between the ­source of motivation.” races.”

What is the toughest thing about You will be driving for BMW Team switching from touring cars to GT RLL in North America, and for BMW racing? Team Schnitzer in Europe and “The biggest differences are the things Asia. Do you like this collaborative around the racing, like the pit stops. ­approach? The driving itself is easier in a GT “It’s a great idea. The main focus will sports car. The BMW M3 GT gives you be the manufacturers’ title, which we a bit more of everything: more power, want to win for BMW. It is less impor- bigger brakes, wider tyres, better tant whether the points come with RLL ­aerodynamics. That all helps the driver. or Schnitzer. It is brilliant to bring So the switch from WTCC into GT is ­together our strengths for BMW in easier than the other way around.” ­order to achieve a shared goal. I enjoy my time with both teams. We have a What do you feel is the most striking ­fantastic year ahead of us.“ feature of the BMW M3 GT? “The BMW M3 GT looks aggressive. I also like the new aerodynamics ­package. The car looks very attractive but I like its power most of all. The ­performance of the BMW M3 GT is just wonderful.“

49 Facts and figures.

Born: 3 September 1983 in (BR) Nationality: Brazilian Residence: Monte Carlo (MC) Marital status: Married Website: www.farfus.com

Milestones. 1991 First motorsport experiences in motocross From 1992 Karting »

arguably the world’s toughest circuit with Raced in a range of American and Italian championships DRIVERS Augusto clockwork precision. Victory in the “Green 1999 2nd place Karting World Championship (Formula A) Farfus. Hell” was certainly no fluke: In January 2000 12th place European Formula Renault Championship 2011 Farfus scored his second win in a 2001 1st place European Formula Renault Championship Profile. 24-hour race, this time at the wheel of a 2002 9th place F3000 Euro Series private BMW Z4 GT3 entered by Team 2003 1st place F3000 Euro Series Schubert in Dubai. 2004 6th place FIA ETCC () 2005 4th place FIA WTCC (Alfa Romeo) There are no two ways about it: Augusto With these victories, the driver from Curi- 2006 3rd place FIA WTCC (Alfa Romeo) Farfus is an all-round talent. Whether in tiba (BR) made a name for himself in 2007 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany touring car racing or endurance mara- endurance racing from the word go. 2008 6th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany thons, the Brazilian welcomes every Therefore he is this year teamed with Pri- 2009 3rd place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany ­opportunity of putting his talent behind aulx and Jörg Müller in BMW Motorsport’s 2010 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GT2), the wheel to the test. That he not only driver line-up for the Intercontinental Le Team BMW Motorsport ­revels in his chosen profession, but is Mans Cup, plus classic races such as the 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team RBM also ­extremely successful at it is evident Le Mans 24 Hours. 2011 1st place 24h race Dubai (BMW Z4 GT3), Team Schubert from a quick glance at the statistics. His career certainly has milestones With 15 victories scored in world touring ­aplenty. Following early successes in cars between 2005 and 2010, Farfus motocross and karting, Farfus made the ­occupies second place on the all-time move from South America to Europe. winners list. Only his fellow BMW driver, 2000 saw him make his debut in Formula Andy Priaulx, is a more prolific winner. Renault, winning the title a year later. The However, Farfus has not only been a man Euro F3000 series, too, saw him triumph to beat in sprints, but has also proven in his second season. In 2004 he equally successful in endurance racing. ­switched to touring cars, successfully ­joining BMW Motorsport as works driver Last year he entered the record books in 2007. ­after winning the Nürburgring 24 Hours with a BMW M3 GT2 as team-mate to Jörg Müller, Pedro Lamy and Uwe Alzen. Despite his young age, Farfus attacked

50 Interview. Augusto Farfus.

Augusto, in 2010 you won at the You will be contesting races in ­Nürburgring, followed up by victory ­Europe, North America and Asia. Do in January’s race in Dubai. Do you you enjoy this jet-setting lifestyle? ­already consider yourself an endu­ “Naturally seeing the entire world is one rance specialist? of the attractions of being a professional “I am certainly still learning. The win at race driver. That really began during my the Nordschleife with the BMW M3 GT touring car career. My current season » was obviously the highlight of last year. starts in Sebring and ends in China. That DRIVERS In Dubai we drove a BMW Z4 GT3 to is fairly unique. I really enjoy meeting ­victory. I am satisfied with my perfor- new people, seeing different places and mances, but now I am looking forward to cultures, and learning new race tracks.” this year’s challenges.” How popular is GT racing in your What makes the Nürburgring so home country of Brazil? ­special? “GT racing is becoming more and more “The atmosphere is certainly unique. popular. Fans and spectators have grea- You need to experience it yourself at ter access to the teams. Aspects such least once. The circuit is really fast and as changes in weather conditions and extremely long. A lot of fast corners and variable lighting add to the attractions. a field of over 200 cars keeps us drivers Spectators enjoy that, and so there is really busy. You are constantly overta- now also a GT series in Brazil.” king and concentrating on traffic. That is what makes this 24-hour race the most challenging on the planet.”

What are the keys to success in GT racing? “As usual in motorsport, you need a good car such as the BMW M3 GT. Equally crucial is a strong team. Then a bit of luck does not go amiss, because sometimes talent alone does not suffice in endurance racing. As a driver you also need to be able to depend fully upon your team-mates.”

53 Facts and figures.

Born: 3 September 1969 in Kerkrade (NL) Nationality: German Residence: Monte Carlo (MC) Marital status: Unmarried Website: www.joerg-mueller.org

Milestones. From 1984 Karting 1988 1st place German Championship »

won the 1999 Le Mans 24 Hours to two 1989 1st place German Formula Lotus Challenge DRIVERS Jörg American Le Mans Series wins. In 2001 1990 1st place Formula Ford European Championship Müller. Müller won the GT class in this competi- 1991 1st place Formula 3 Grand Prix in Monaco tive endu­rance championship at the 1992 7th place German Formula 3 Championship Profile. wheel of a BMW M3 GTR. 1993 German Formula 3 Championship 1st place Formula 3 Grand Prix in Macau Early in his career Müller waltzed through 1994 1st place German Formula 3 Championship various junior formulae with seeming 1995 BMW works driver ADAC Super Touring Car Cup Jörg Müller has regularly proven he ease. He won championships in Formula 1996 1st place European Championship ­possesses all the qualities that consti­tute Ford, Formula Opel, Formula 3 and BMW works driver ADAC Super Touring Car Cup a top-class endurance driver during his ­Formula 3000. As test and devlopment 1st place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW 318is) ­career. The return of BMW Motorsport to driver, he played a vital role in the prepara­ 1997 Formula 1 test driver for Arrows, 24h race Le Mans the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2010 was tion programme for BMW’s Formula 1 1998 Formula 1 test driver for Sauber victorious, with Müller playing a crucial comeback in 2000. From 2002 he com- 2nd place 24h race Le Mans (Porsche GT1) role in the success. It was his second peted in the European Touring Car 1999 BMW works and F1 test driver, one ALMS victory ­victory in the Eifel marathon, the first Championship, twice taking the title fight 24h race Le Mans (BMW V12 LMR) ­coming at the wheel of a BMW M3 GTR to the final round. In 2005 he moved on 2000 5th place American Le Mans Series (BMW V12 LMR) in 2004. In addition, he rounded off his to the World Touring Car Championship, Formula 1 test driver for Michelin ­successful 2010 season with a LM GT2 losing out to fellow BMW driver Andy 2001 1st place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GTR) class win in the Intercontinental Le Mans ­Priaulx in the 2006 season by a single 2002 2nd place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Germany Cup season finale in Zhuhai. point. Between 2005 and 2009 Müller 2003 2nd place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Germany scored ten WTCC victories. 2004 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) He has not only contested Le Mans for 4th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Germany BMW, instead amassing experience with This likeable driver this year aims to draw 1st place GT2 class 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GTR) other manufacturers, too. In 1998 he was on his considerable experience in order 2005 5th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Germany second there for Porsche. In addition to celebrate further successes in GT 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) Müller raced in the 24-hour race in ­racing. He is teamed with Augusto Farfus 2006 2nd place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany ­Daytona (US) and competed in two 24- and Priaulx in the BMW Motorsport works 2007 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany hour races in Spa-Francorchamps. In driver line-up for the Intercontinental Le 2008 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany he won upon his debut there for Mans Cup. In addition, he is looking 2009 6th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany BMW in 1996, and in 2000 drove the ­forward to his return to Le Mans. 2010 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GT2) BMW V12 LMR with which BMW had 1st place LM GT2 class ILMC finale Zhuhai (BMW M3 GT2), BMW Team Schnitzer 54 Interview. Jörg Müller.

Jörg, you’re starting another season You know all the different variations with BMW. Is it all just routine for you of the BMW M3. What makes the now, or do you still get a buzz? BMW M3 GT special for you? “Motorsport can never just become a “First, I just think our car is beautiful. routine. There are always new challen- ­Sometimes racing cars can look like ges. We have continued to develop the street cars which have been kitted out BMW M3 GT and introduced some new with tuning parts that don’t fit. With our » elements. That makes it really exciting BMW M3 GT, it’s as if everything has DRIVERS for the drivers. The long winter break been ­joined up and the car just came off also has the effect of making you hungry the assembly line like that. In addition, to get back behind the wheel again. the aerodynamics have changed pretty ­Every racing driver will be feeling the drastically from last year. Compared to same.” the earlier BMW M3 GTR, the new car also has a lot more downforce, which You won the ILMC finale in Zhuhai you notice straightaway on the track.” with Dirk Werner. Does a win like that before the winter break drive you on for the next season? “Absolutely – even if the pack is always reshuffled at the start of every season. Many of our competitors will be heading to the start with new cars, and we don’t know how strong they will prove to be. We are concentrating on our own strengths and have tried to continue to develop the car in those areas where we identified weaknesses. Now we just have to wait until the first qualifying ­session of the season to see how the teams line up.”

57

Facts and figures.

Born: 18 November 1975 in Burbach (DE) Nationality: German Residence: Monte Carlo (MC) Marital status: Married, one daughter Website: www.dirk-mueller.com

Milestones. From 1989 Karting 1991 3rd place ADAC Pop Kart Championship »

circuit and, alongside Jörg Müller and 1992 2nd place Formula König DRIVERS Dirk Hans-Joachim Stuck (DE), was part of the 1993 2nd place Formula König Müller. team that won the 24-hour race at the Nür- 1994 3rd place Formula Opel burgring in 2004. 1995 Formula Opel European Series Profile. Formula 3 debut race In 2007 Müller returned to the endurance 1996 German Formula 3 Championship circuit and immediately won the FIA GT 1997 porsche Junior Team In GT racing, Dirk Müller is regarded as one Championship with . The following 5th place of the best in the world. This is reflected in year he made a comeback in the ALMS, 1998 1st place Porsche Carrera Cup his long list of successes in this discipline. finishing runner-up and only narrowly 2nd place 24h race Daytona (Porsche GT1) He first took to the track in a sports car in ­missing out on his second overall victory. 1999 2nd place 24h race Daytona (Porsche GT2) 1997 and immediately caught the eye in When BMW of North America was 4th place 12h race Sebring (Porsche GT1) the Porsche Carrera Cup, which he went ­planning its ALMS comeback for 2009 2nd place GT class 24h race Le Mans (Porsche GT3R) on to win one year later. He also caused a with the racing version of the new BMW 1st place GT class (Porsche GT3R) sensation with excellent results at the M3, Müller was the logical choice as 2000 1st place GT class American Le Mans Series (Porsche GT3R) endurance classics in Daytona (1998 and ­driver. 2001 6th place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GTR) 1999) and Le Mans (1999). 2002 4th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Deutschland After sixth place in his first year, his fine Formula 1 tests with BMW WilliamsF1 Team He did not have to wait long for his first big performances were a crucial factor in BMW 2003 5th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Deutschland title: Müller won the GT class in the 2000 Team RLL winning both the Team and 2004 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) American Le Mans Series, and became a ­Manufacturer titles in 2010. In Road Ame- 2nd place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Deutschland BMW works driver the following year. He rica he claimed victory in the GT class 1st place GT2 class 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GTR) claimed one victory with the BMW M3 alongside Joey Hand. This season, Müller 2005 2nd place FIA WTCC (BMW 320i), BMW Team Deutschland GTR in the ALMS before switching to will once again take turns behind the wheel 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) ­touring car racing in 2002. of the no. 56 BMW M3 GT with Hand. In 2006 6th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si), BMW Team Germany addition, he will also be gunning for more 2007 1st place GT2 class FIA GT Championship (Ferrari) In his five seasons with Schnitzer Motor- successes for BMW Motorsport at the 2008 2nd place GT2 class American Le Mans Series (Ferrari) sport, Müller took 12 victories and narrow- ­European endurance classics. He was part 2009 6th place GT2 class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), ly missed out on the European Champion­ of the winning driver lineup at the 2011 BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team ship title in 2004 and the World ALMS season opener in Sebring. 2010 7th place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), Championship title one year later. He also BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team remained successful on the endurance 3rd place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GT2), Team BMW Motorsport 58 Interview. Dirk Müller.

Dirk, what are your plans for 2011? How much has the ALMS changed “I will be partnering Joey Hand again for over the years? the entire ALMS season. Having won “It has developed extremely positively. the Team and Manufacturer titles in When we first contested it with the BMW 2010, we still have some unfinished M3 GTR the competition was not as business: the Drivers’ Championship. I strong as it is today. Now the series has won it in 2000, and aim to repeat that a host of different manufacturers and » feat. However, the competition is strong, top teams, which means the bar has DRIVERS and they are unlikely to make it easy for been constantly raised. The races have us.” become real sprints. You constantly have to dig deep into your box of tricks As a German driver, how have you ac­ in order to be successful. It is fair to say climatised to North America? that a lot has changed.” “That I have become an ALMS specia- list just developed over the years. I drove Do you consider 24-hour races to be there for BMW before contesting the the climax of your season? European and World Touring Car “Yes, definitely: The 24-hour race in Le ­Championships. It all started again in Mans is a classic. We started something North America in 2009 with BMW Team there in 2010 that we need to finish. RLL. My advantage was that I already This year we intend making amends. knew the circuits. That is important, as When you compete at Le Mans you have time is of the essence during race week- gooseflesh all week.” ends, particularly as you share the car with a team-mate. I really enjoy the US, and feel totally comfortable with BMW Team RLL.”

61 Facts and figures.

Born: 25 May 1981 in Hanover (DE) Nationality: German Residence: Kissenbrück (DE) Marital status: Married Website: www.dirk-werner.net

Milestones. From 1991 Karting 1997 Winner of ADAC Racing Driver School () »

­remaining robbed him of victory in Spa- 1998 3rd place BMW ADAC Formula Junior Cup DRIVERS Dirk Francorchamps. Despite this, Werner had 1999 10th place Formula König Werner. every reason to be happy with his per­ 2000 2nd place Formula König formances after his first season as a BMW 2001 4th place Ford Puma Cup, 1st place in junior standings Profile. works driver. 2002 1st place Ford Puma Cup Class win at 24h race Nürburgring Werner had already tasted success in ADAC Hessen-Thüringen champion A dream came true for Dirk Werner in a BMW before his debut for BMW 2003 1st place Renault Clio V6 Trophy March 2010 when he contested his first ­Motorsport. In 2006 and 2007 he was a 2004 3rd place Porsche Michelin Supercup race as a BMW works driver in Sebring. vital member of the Duller Motorsport 2005 Porsche Michelin Supercup (1 win) Second place for BMW Team RLL in the team that won the 24-hour race in 2006 1st place Porsche Carrera Cup GT class in his first outing showed just ­Silverstone (GB). The same team also 1st place 24h race Silverstone (BMW Z4 M Coupé) what the German is capable of. Constantly ­triumphed at the marathon in Dubai in 1st place 2h race Salzburg (BMW Z4 M Coupé) fast lap times saw Werner continue to thrill 2007. 2nd place 6h race Brno (BMW Z4 M Coupé) the grand stands throughout the season. 3rd place GT class 24h race Daytona (Porsche) The BMW ADAC Formula Junior Cup was 2007 1st place Grand-Am Series (Porsche) The icing on the cake in his first year as a largely responsible for providing Werner 1st place Dubai 24h race (BMW Z4 M Coupé) member of the “BMW family” came along- with the skills required for a successful 1st place Silverstone 24h race (BMW Z4 M Coupé) side Jörg Müller at the finale of the Inter- ­career in motor racing. In 2007 he became 2008 2nd place Porsche Cup continental Le Mans Cup in Zhuhai. The the first non-American to capture the GT VLN Endurance Championship (2 wins) duo claimed an impressive victory for title in the Grand-Am Series – a feat he American Le Mans Series (1 win) BMW Team Schnitzer in the LM GT2 class. ­repeated in 2009. As well as the 24-hour Grand-Am Series Werner could not have hoped for a better races, Werner will also line up for BMW 2009 1st place Porsche Cup debut on Chinese soil. Team RLL in the American Le Mans 1st place Grand-Am Series (Porsche) ­Series. The curtain-raiser to the season in VLN Endurance Championship (3 wins) This win made up for the misfortunes that Sebring sees Werner return to the scene 2010 3rd place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GT2), had plagued him at the 24-hour classics. A of his first race as a BMW works driver in Team BMW Motorsport crash, for which nobody was to blame, 2010. 1st place LM GT2 class ILMC finale Zhuhai (BMW M3 GT2), was an early and ultimately decisive set- BMW Team Schnitzer back for Werner and his team-mates at the ­Nürburgring. A technical problem when leading with just 40 minutes of the race

62 Interview. Dirk Werner.

Dirk, you have a varied programme You were unlucky last year at the 24- ahead of you in 2011. What are you hour races ... most looking forward to? “In the end, the outcome for me perso- “A lot will be new for me – and that’s nally was a bit disappointing. We had the good because I like challenges. This potential to be in contention for a top year, I will be competing in the ALMS place finish at the Nürburgring in season for BMW Team RLL. The team particular – as our victorious team » enjoyed a lot of success last year. As a colleagues demonstrated. So yes, I am DRIVERS new driver, I want to repay the faith ­naturally looking to do much better this shown in me with great performances. year.” I’m looking to help defend the Team and Manufacturer titles, and ideally also win What does it feel like to be a part of the drivers’ title. In addition, I will also be the BMW family? racing in the 24-hour classics, which are “It’s a lovely feeling. I have been wel­ really special events for me. It’s going to comed warmly right from the start and be another thrilling year.” am lucky enough to have great ­colleagues in the other drivers. Every­ What are the particular demands on a one is an absolute pro – and also very driver in the ALMS? helpful and kind. We have a great time “The series has developed massively in together. ­Professionalism and team recent years, and the performance rate ­spirit are what BMW is all about. And is huge. In the GTE class in particular, ­together, it’s a combination that there are many new manufacturers, who ­produces great results.” are sending their best drivers into races. As a result, we’re seeing a diverse and very high quality starting field. The endu- rance races are driven like sprint races. For hours on end, it’s relentless attack. That’s what makes this series so attrac- tive for us drivers.”

65 Facts and figures.

Born: 18 August 1967 in Kirchen (DE) Nationality: German Residence: Betzdorf (DE) Marital status: Married Website: www.uwealzen.de

Milestones. 1990 Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (Porsche) 1991 1st place junior standings Endurance Trophy »

Alzen practically has a place reserved on 1992 1st place Porsche Carrera Cup DRIVERS Uwe Alzen. the top step of the podium at his home 1993 2nd place Profile. circuit. Thirty four class victories and nine 1st place DTM privateer championship (Mercedes) overall wins in the VLN Endurance Cham- 1st place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (Porsche) pionship speak for themselves. However, 1994 1st place Porsche Supercup Alzen would never have become a com- 1st place DTM privateer championship (Mercedes) It is hard to imagine a 24-hour race at the plete racing driver had he not dared to 1995 1st place DTM and ITC semi-works drivers’ championship (Mercedes) Nürburgring without Uwe Alzen. Not only look beyond his own backyard. 1st place ADAC GT Cup would his countless fans miss the Nord- 1996 8th place ITC (Opel) schleife expert, but also his rivals out on In 1993 he won the 24-hour race in Spa- 1997 5th place STW Cup (Opel) the track. Alzen is regarded as one of the Francorchamps and finished second 1998 3rd place STW Cup (Opel) absolute professionals in the “Green overall at the classic in Le Mans in 1998 2nd place 24h race Daytona (Porsche) Hell”, who repeatedly emerge successful – by the side of Jörg Müller. He went on 2nd place 24h race Le Mans (Porsche GT1) from their tussles with what is probably to win the GT3 class one year later. In 1999 2nd place German Super Touring Car Championship (Opel) the most demanding circuit in motor ­addition, he also competed in the DTM 1st place GT3 class 24h race Le Mans (Porsche) ­racing. for Opel and Mercedes, claiming a total 2000 6th place DTM (Opel) 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (Porsche) of six victories. Alzen was triumphant on 2001 2nd place DTM (Mercedes) A fine example of this came last year, two occasions in the Porsche Carrera 2002 5th place DTM (Mercedes) when he won the classic in the Eifel Cup (1992 and 2007) and won the 2003 VLN Endurance Championship (1 win) Mountains in a BMW M3 GT2 alongside ­Porsche Supercup in 1994. 2004 10th place FIA GT Championship (Saleen) Jörg Müller, Augusto Farfus and Pedro 2nd place GTS class 1000-km race Nürburgring Lamy. As the final driver, Alzen used all When it comes to success, there is no VLN Endurance Championship (1 win) his experience to guide the car to a 19th compromise for Alzen. He can barely 2005 VLN Endurance Championship (3 wins) overall victory for BMW, despite a gear- ­disguise his irrepressible ambition at the Porsche Michelin Supercup box problem. This was the second time race track. In contrast, only one thing 2006 2nd place Porsche Michelin Supercup Alzen had crossed the line in first place at counts for him in the cockpit: utmost 2nd place Porsche Carrera Cup the 24-hour race: his first entry in the list concentration. Combined with his talent 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring of winners came in 2000 with Porsche. and experience at marathon races, this 2007 3rd place Porsche Michelin Supercup makes him a true asset to the BMW 1st place Porsche Carrera Cup ­Motorsport driving line-up. 2008 3rd place Speedcar Series 2009 4th place 24h race Nürburgring (Porsche) 2010 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GT2), Team BMW Motorsport 66 Interview. Uwe Alzen.

Uwe, do the final kilometres of your How much has motorsport changed race at the Nordschleife in 2010 during your career? ­represent a unique phase of your “When you look at the 24-hour race or ­motorsport career? the VLN series, everything has become “Absolutely. I consider that to have been a lot more professional. The teams are the most exciting race of my career. I better organised, and have modern ­literally shivered in the car, praying it equipment and transporters. The level » would last to the end of the race. Before of quality has certainly gone up a notch DRIVERS I took over for the final stint I checked or three.” out the time situation on the computer, so I knew we had an advantage. But the tension was still unimaginable. It almost drove me crazy.”

How crucial is experience when con­ testing the Nürburgring 24 Hours? Experience is irreplaceable. You need to be able read the traffic perfectly, ­par­ti­cularly as there are a lot of different cars and drivers, from slow to ultra- fast; from professional drivers to rank ­amateurs. It takes time to acclimatise to such situations.”

You have become a regular on the Nordschleife. Do you still experience the unexpected? „Yes, always. In every race there are high speed situations where you come across a gaggle of slower cars embroiled in their own battles. That is when you may have to overtake with two wheels on the grass, which looks extremely adven­ turous. But that is all part of racing on the Nordschleife.”

69 Facts and figures.

Born: 10 July 1969 in Altenkirchen (DE) Nationality: German Residence: Michelbach (DE) Marital status: Single Website: www.dirk-adorf.de

Milestones. 1991 2nd place German Touring Car Cup (Citroën) 1992 1st place Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (Citroën) »

the Ring. Nothing can surprise me there 1993 2nd place Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (Citroën) DRIVERS Dirk Adorf. ­anymore,” says the German. 1994 Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (BMW and Citroën) Profile. Class win 24h race Nürburgring (Citroën) Adorf himself has always been good for a 1995 3rd place German Touring Car Challenge (Opel) surprise or two over the course of his 1996 1st place Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (Opel) ­career. He has won the VLN Endurance Class win 24h race Nürburgring Dirk Adorf is a real fighter who does not Championship, which is contested at 1997 1st place Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (Opel) know the meaning of ‘giving up’. Precis- the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, on three Class win 24h race Nürburgring ely this resilience is of huge importance ­occasions and has 55 class wins and six 1998 German Touring Car Challenge (BMW) in endurance racing. Nowhere was this overall victories to his name. The fans of Class win 24h race Nürburgring (BMW) more obvious than at last year‘s 24-hour this championship crowned him “Driver 1999 – 2001 German Touring Car Cup (Opel) race on the Nordschleife. Adorf‘s con- of the Year” on two occasions. It goes “Guia Race” in Macau sistently good lap times were a sig­nificant ­without saying that Adorf is a regular at 2002/2003 1st place V8-Star rookie standings (Jaguar) factor in no. 26 BMW M3 GT2 recovering the Nürburgring 24 Hours. His greatest Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (1 win) from 182nd to finish in seventh following success to date at this classic came in 2004 Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (2 wins) an early crash. 2007, when he finished third overall for Driver of the year 2004 the Land-Motorsport team. In 2009 he 2005 VLN Endurance Championship (Porsche), V8 Star He also showed his determination to ­claimed pole position in a Ford GT, ­setting Driver of the year 2005 succeed at the 24-hour race in Spa-Fran- a new lap record in the process. 2006 VLN Endurance Championship () corchamps in 2010. Adorf and team-­ 4th place 24h race (Porsche) mates, Dirk Müller and Dirk Werner, led Adorf is not only successful on the track, 24h race Nürburgring for long periods until a technical problem but also away from it. Having trained as a 2007 VLN Endurance Championship (Lamborghini/Porsche), ­resulted in the BMW M3 GT2 dropping master mechanic he went on to study 3 wins back to third place during the last hour of Technical Business Management at the 3rd place 24h race Nürburgring the race. European Academy in Cologne (DE). He 2008 VLN Endurance Championship (Lamborghini) later formed a successful events agency 2009 VLN Endurance Championship (Lamborghini/Ford) The Nürburgring-Nordschleife is the and is also active as a commentator and 24h race Nürburgring (pole position, lap record) ­ultimate school for developing this stami- presenter for various TV broadcasters. 2010 3rd place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW M3 GT2), na. Feared by many, Adorf regards the Team BMW Motorsport circuit as his living room and has used the “Green Hell” as a training ground for 20 years. “I quite simply feel at home at

70 Interview. Dirk Adorf.

Dirk, did the BMW M3 GT deliver last year what you were promised it would? “Yes, absolutely. I would say the car even surpassed my expectations ­because we were incredibly reliable and our team was able to win, even if we weren’t ne- » cessarily the fastest. The ­fantastic relia- DRIVERS bility of the car was the key to success on the Nordschleife in 2010.”

What was your most important ­ex­perience in Team BMW Motorsport in 2010? “The most important realisation was that it really is about people. I was afraid before that working with a large manu- facturer meant that you would only ever be someone who has a specific function to fulfil. Actually, it’s completely the ­opposite. So many different people are involved in giving us drivers a car that can compete for victories. Everyone is pulling together. When the set-up is like that, it makes it easy for us in the cockpit to want to give our absolute all for the team.”

You have a huge fan base at the ­Nürburgring. Do you feel that support when you’re on the track? “Definitely. I think it’s similar for me as it is for Uwe Alzen: we both have lots of fans at the Nürburgring who really like us and have supported us for years. And, of course, the BMW fanbase is huge.“

73 Facts and figures.

Born: 20 March 1972 in Aldeia Galega (PT) Nationality: portuguese Residence: Lisbon (PT) Marital status: Unmarried Website: www.pedrolamy.com

Milestones. From 1978 -Motocross From 1985 Karting »

Lamy‘s skill is in no way restricted to the 1988 1st place Portuguese Karting Championship DRIVERS Pedro Lamy. Nordschleife. He is one of five drivers in 1989 1st place Portuguese Formula Ford Championship Profile. Team BMW Motorsport who have already 1990 1st place Formula Opel Nations Cup gained experience in a Formula 1 car. 1991 1st place Formula Opel Euro Series and Nations Cup ­Between 1993 and 1996 he contested 32 1992 1st place German Formula 3 Championship Grands Prix and scored a World Champi- 1st place Formula 3 Marlboro Masters What would continuously attract a onship point for Minardi in Adelaide (AU) in 1993 2nd place European Formula 3000 Championship ­Portuguese from his sunny homeland to 1995. Formula 1, four races (Lotus) the cold, rainy Eifel Mountains? The answer 1994 Formula 1, four races (Lotus), test driver (Mercedes) is the most demanding race track in the His single-seater career started in the 1995 Formula 1, eight races (Minardi), test driver (Tyrrell, Arrows) world – the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Ped- ­Portuguese Formula Ford Championship in 1996 Formula 1 (Minardi) ro Lamy has a special relationship with the 1989. It did not take long for Lamy to 1997 5th place 24h race Le Mans (Porsche) “Green Hell”. With five victories at the ­become noticed by racing experts outside 1998 1st place GT2 class FIA GT Championship ( Viper) ­24-hour race, he joins (DE) of his home country. In 1992 he lined up in 2nd place GT2 class 24h race Le Mans (Chrysler Viper) as the most successful driver at the the German Formula 3 and stormed to the 1999 24h race Le Mans (Mercedes), American Le Mans Series, ­world-famous endurance race. title with eleven victories. He ultimately ISRS (BMW V12 LMR) made the step up to the elite class via 2000 DTM (Mercedes) It is for precisely this reason that BMW ­Formula 3000. 2001 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (Chrysler Viper) ­Motorsport continues to put its faith in the 2002 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (Chrysler Viper), expertise of the Nordschleife specialist for a In 1997 sports and touring cars became his 2003 1st place V8 Star (Jaguar) possible start at this circuit. Three of Lamy’s profession, while endurance races turned 2004 2nd place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) five wins came with BMW, most recently into a passion. Lamy has started at eleven. 1st place GT1 class Le Mans Series (Ferrari) last year alongside Jörg Müller, Augusto He has also raced at several 24-hour races 2005 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GTR) Farfus and Uwe Alzen. in Spa-Francorchamps, including with the 5th place GT1 class FIA GT Championship () BMW M3 GTR in 2004. 2006 1st place GT1 class Le Mans Series (Aston Martin) 5th place American Le Mans Series (Aston Martin) Lamy commands great respect on the 2007 2nd place 24h race Le Mans () ­motor racing scene, thanks largely to his 1st place Le Mans Series (Peugeot) versatility. His fellow BMW Motorsport 2008 5th place 24h race Le Mans (Peugeot) ­drivers jokingly know him as “The Robot”: 4th place Le Mans Series (Peugeot) no matter what car the old hand is in, he 2009 6th place 24h race Le Mans (Peugeot) ­always gets the best out of it. 2010 1st place 24h race Nürburgring (BMW M3 GT2), Team BMW Motorsport 74 Interview. Pedro Lamy.

The Nordschleife is the most challen­ Do you still experience moments of ging circuit in the world. How have nervousness despite all your experi­ you managed to be so successful ence and successes? there? “Possibly I don’t show that I am nervous “In a 24-hour race you are not alone in and tense, but I certainly experience the the cockpit, so you need to rely upon pressure. Although I have contested strong team-mates. In addition I have ­innumerable races, I am excited at the » been fortunate in always having compe- start and experience some apprehen­ DRIVERS titive cars, which also proved to be very sion – but not because of the speeds or reliable. Although we did not necessa­rily possible accidents. My major concern is have the fastest car last year, we were that I may not prove fast enough. Howe- able to take victory. I am pleased I was ver, once I’m out on the track I give it my also able to contribute to that success.” best, and try to deliver the best per­ formance possible.” Pedro, the Nordschleife is the most challenging circuit in the world. How You have contested numerous races have you managed to be so success­ with BMW Team Schnitzer. What are ful there? your comments about the ethos of “In a 24-hour race you are not alone in the team? the cockpit, so you need to rely upon “Charly Lamm is the best team principal strong team-mates. In addition I have one could imagine. Working with him is been fortunate in always having compe- simply fantastic. Every crew member of titive cars, which also proved to be very BMW Team Schnitzer concentrates 100 reliable. Although we did not necessari- per cent on his tasks at the circuit. This ly have the fastest car last year, we were level of professionalism is very im­portant able to take victory. I am pleased I was for drivers seeking the best possible also able to contribute to that success.” ­results.”

77 Facts and figures.

Born: 12 October 1968 in Redondo Beach (US) Nationality: American Residence: Redondo Beach (US) Marital status: Married

Milestones. 1995 1st place GT2 class 12h race Sebring (Porsche) 1996 1st place Peruvian Formula 3 Championship, IMSA GT Championship »

Auberlen claimed his first victory for the 1997 1st place IMSA GTS-3 Championship (BMW M3) DRIVERS Bill brand back in 1997 when he won the 1998 4th place 24h race Le Mans (McLaren BMW) auberlen. Drivers‘ title in the IMSA GTS-3 with 1st place ALMS race at Laguna Seca (Riley & Scott Mk III/BMW) BMW Team PTG in a BMW M3. He ­raced 1999 9th place American Le Mans Series (BMW V12 LMR) Profile. for Tom Milner‘s (US) team until 2006, 5th place 24h race Le Mans (BMW V12 LMR) achieving success on numerous occasi- 2000 9th place American Le Mans Series (BMW V12 LMR) ons. His performances at the endurance 2001 1st place GT class Petit Le Mans (BMW M3 GTR) The combination of BMW and Bill classics in Le Mans, Daytona and 2002 1st place Rolex GT Series ­Auberlen is a recipe for success. ­Sebring were just as impressive as his 2003 1st place Speed World Challenge Touring Car Series ­Regardless of which model the Ameri- results in the Speed World Challenge, 2004 1st place Grand-Am Series GT class can takes out onto the track: the driver which he won in 2003 and 2004. 1st place Speed World Challenge Touring Car Series and car work in perfect harmony. The 2005 American Le Mans Series GT2 class experienced Auberlen is a true all-roun- In 2004 he also set a record in the 2006 6th place GT2 class American Le Mans Series der. As well as being brilliant in the latest Grand-Am Series, winning six races in a 2007 American Le Mans Series (), Series BMW models, such as the BMW M3 GT row with the BMW M3 and going on to 2008 Daytona Prototype Series, Koni Challenge or the BMW Z4 GT3, he can also look win the GT championship. In 1999 and 2009 American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), back on experience with historic cars 2000 the American successfully BMW Rahal Letterman Racing like the BMW V12 LMR, McLaren BMW ­competed for BMW Motorsport at the 2010 3rd place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), and the BMW M3 GTR. wheel of a BMW V12 LMR prototype. BMW Rahal Letterman Racing

Last year Auberlen contested his 250th Auberlen also has fond memories of race in a BMW and not only represented BMW Team RLL‘s first victory in Road BMW Team RLL in the American Le America with the BMW M3 GT2 in 2009. Mans Series, but also lined up success- However, he is determined this will not fully in the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car be the last triumph. This year, the Series and the Continental Sports ­Californian will once again use his wealth Car Challenge – with BMW, of course. of experience to help his team to more titles. In 2011, Auberlen lines up along- side Dirk Werner, another driver with major successes to his name on the American sports car scene.

78 Interview. Bill Auberlen.

Bill, you are an experienced driver, You will have a new team-mate in but are you especially excited about 2011. How long does it take to reach the 2011 season? 100 per cent in your teamwork? “I am excited about every season, “Every team-mate is different so it is ­es­pecially when I race BMW cars. To be very important to gel. After the car and teamed up with BMW and Rahal Letter- the team, your team-mate is the biggest man Lanigan is a dream job. To have al- component to success. If he likes a » ready tested the BMW M3 GT before ­different car set-up than I like we will be DRIVERS the first race, to see all the development doing tug-of-war for the season. We in aero and suspension, makes me even would go no where. Luckily, I have ­driven more excited. Nothing gets me ready to a few races already with Dirk Werner. He go like being able to race for a champion­ likes the car a little looser and I like it a ship – and I am ready to go.” little tighter car, but we always meet in the middle. Yes, we compro­mise, but it How fired up are you to have a go for is always to make the car faster.” the ALMS drivers’ crown? “You must be motivated by something. What aspect of ALMS racing do you It can be wins, championships, multiple like the most? wins, but it must be something. After “What I like least is winning races that winning the Manufacturer and Team had a low level of competition. The championships last season it is time to ALMS is all about a ton of cars and races win the drivers’ trophy. I have been that are unbelievably competitive. A ­training since October to be as fit and as quick lap or even a win is often deter­ strong as I can be to have every advan- mined by the third number after the tage I can to help bring home the drivers’ ­decimal point. These are victories a title.” ­driver can be extremely proud of.”

81 Facts and figures.

Born: 10 February 1979 in Sacramento (US) Nationality: American Residence: Sacramento (US) Marital status: Married, two children Website: www.joeyhandracing.com

Milestones. 1995 – 1998 Karting 1998 4th place Formula Pro Series »

year‘s apprenticeship, he won the 1999 1st place Pro Series DRIVERS Joey Hand. ­Formula Mazda series in just his se- 2000 Winner of Team USA Scholarship Profile. cond season. 2001 3rd place Atlantic Championship 2002 Toyota Atlantic Championship, winner of Gilles Villeneuve Award Unfortunately, the joy over his title win 2003 7th place Toyota Atlantic Championship BMW and Joey Hand have enjoyed a was short lived. Hand broke his elbow 2004 8th place Grand-Am GT Series (BMW) profitable partnership for several years, in a karting accident at the end of the 2005 5th place Grand-Am GT Series (BMW) and will continue to work together in season. However, the injury did not 2006 6th place GT2 class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3) 2011. The American will line-up along- prevent Hand from emerging as the 2007 American Le Mans Series (Panoz) side his German team-mate Dirk Müller winner of the Team USA Scholarship 2008 Grand-Am Series for BMW Team RLL in the American Le programme just months later. 2009 American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), Mans Series. Their goal is clear: to BMW Rahal Letterman Racing launch an attack on the Drivers‘ title. 2004 brought with it a new start with 2010 7th place GT class American Le Mans Series (BMW M3 GT2), BMW on the GT racing scene. Hand BMW Rahal Letterman Racing The two drivers showed just how well ended his debut season in the Grand- they gel together in 2010, when the Am Series with one win and six podium German-American duo claimed a pres- finishes to his name. He notched up a tigious win in Road America in the no. further four victories the following 90 BMW M3 GT2. Three further po­ season, before he joined Bill Auberlen dium finishes and joint success in in a BMW M3 in the American Le Mans ­winning the GT Team and Manufactu- Series, finishing the season in sixth. rer titles rounded off an excellent After a stint with Panoz, Hand returned season. to BMW in 2009. Together with Auber- len he helped BMW Team RLL to its Motorsport is a family tradition in the first victory in the GT class, a pole po- Hand household. His father made a sition, and the fastest lap in Mid-Ohio. name for himself as a successful stock car driver. Son Joey launched his ­career His latest triumphs, victories at the 24 in karting and racing in Sprint Cars, Hours of Daytona in a BMW Riley and which enjoys great popularity in North at the 12-hour race in Sebring, made it America. In 1998 he took the step up a very promising start to the 2011 to single-seater racing. Following a season for Hand.

82 Interview. Joey Hand.

Joey, the season got off to a perfect You won in Road America both in 2009 start for you in Daytona. Does this and 2010. Is there a special relation­ ­victory give you an additional boost for ship between you and this circuit? your 2011 ALMS season? “I have always had success at Road Ame- “Absolutely! I had a really good feeling rica, all the way back to my days in the about this year. The Daytona win is some- ­Atlantic Series. I hadn‘t actually won there thing every driver dreams of. Racing before 2009, but I always had good runs » is about momentum and I will carry there. I had a great race there in 2006 in DRIVERS that ­momentum right to our ALMS the BMW M3. Racing is very cerebral. ­programme. This is the third year with When you know a race track, you will do BMW Team RLL and it all feels really well there. It feels like a home track good. I think we will be the best we‘ve ­advantage – even though it’s no where ever been.” near my home.”

What are your expectations for the Baltimore is new on the calendar. Do season? you like racing on unknown circuits? “My expectation is always to win, but, as “Baltimore will be new to everyone. I love we showed last season, consistency street circuits and I love brand new ­delivers championships. In this series that ­circuits. One of my strongest skills is lear- means you can not finish outside of the ning new tracks quickly. My third lap is the top five so cars must go the distance fastest, whether it’s a new track or a track ­every race. My goal for this season is con- I have raced many times.” sistency and more wins. Road America again, Lime Rock is always a strong race for our cars as well as BMW of North America’s home track, and I would love to win on a street course. Everyone knows how much I love street courses, so that means Long Beach – one of my all time favorites – or Baltimore.”

85 »

24h L E M ANS

BMW Motorsport goes the long way. The 24 Hours of Le Mans.

86 87 »

24h L E M ANS

LMR prototype. BMW will once again the sister car to sixth in the LM GT2 On 11/12 June 2011 Team BMW Le Mans. face the challenge of this endurance class in front of 240,000 spectators. Motorsport­ once more accepts the Profile. classic this year with the BMW M3 GT, challenge of Le Mans. Enthusiastic fans competing in the LM GTE category. In Fifty six cars contest this year’s race. from all over the world will again turn 2010 BMW brought a tradition back to Despite the relatively small field the 13.629-kilometre circuit into the life: the BMW Art Car Collection. One of ­compared to the 24-hour race at the capital of motorsport. Awaiting them Since its debut on 26/27 May 1923, the the two BMW Motorsport BMW M3 ­Nürburgring, the marathon in Le Mans will be more than just a captivating 24-hour race in Le Mans has been one GT2 racing cars featured a design from cannot be beaten when it comes to ­24-hour race. The so-called “Le Mans” of the most important racing events in American artist Jeff Koons. ­excitement. The GTE Pro category week begins on the Sunday before the the world. BMW celebrated its biggest ­alone features 18 vehicles. start with the technical inspection in success at the “Circuit de la Sarthe” in Although the car was forced to retire the centre of the town. 1999 when (IT), Yannik early, the BMW M3 GT2 Art Car proved Dalmas (FR) and to be a true fan favourite. Jörg Müller, (DE) took overall victory in a BMW V12 Augusto Farfus and Uwe Alzen drive

88 89 Le Mans. Circuit de la Sarthe. Mulsanne Inaugural race: 26/27 May 1923 Circuit length: 13.629km Turns: 21 2010 spectators: 240,000 »

24h l e m ans

Mulsanne Straight

Indianapolis

Arnage

Tertre Rouge Porsche Curves

Esses

Ford Chicane Dunlop Chicane »

Dunlop Curve reduce these extreme speeds. However, Those wishing to drive had to be able to circuit. a good top speed remains the key to a History. run: the classic Le Mans start made its fast lap in Le Mans. Nowadays, the debut in 1925. On the starting signal, ­average speed of LM P1 cars is around the drivers had to run to their car, get in, 240 km/h, while cars from the GT2 start the engine, and pull away. This was For the first ever Le Mans 24-hour race ­category travel at an average of At the debut of the 24-hour race in Le a top-class spectacle, which remained in 1923, the ACO set up a 17.292- 200 km/h. Mans in 1923, on a circuit over 17 kilo- on the Le Mans programme until 1970. ­kilometre circuit in the south of the city. metres long at the time, France’s André For safety reasons, the famous mara- The circuit layout has changed very little A right-hander is followed by the “Mul- Lagache and René Leonard were thon at the Sarthe has been opened with » since that first race all those years back. sanne Kink”. This corner takes the cars ­immortalised as they became the first a rolling start since 1971. 24h l e m ans A serious accident in 1955, in which 84 over a crest, which can be particularly ever winners. The two exhausted drivers people were killed, resulted in further treacherous in traffic. The same applies impressed the world with what was at The line-up grew continuously and the modifications to the circuit in order to for the quick “Indianapolis” and the time an astonishing average speed interest shown by manufacturers and ra- put the emphasis on the safety of drivers ­“Porsche” corners. Even today these of 92.064 km/h. cing teams was immense. The field and and spectators. Run-off zones were bends separate the men from the boys. cars became more and more diverse. ­added and the width of the track The “Ford Chicane” requires a mixture In the early years, the cars could only This resulted in the division into ­different ­re­duced. However, the “Circuit de la of good traction and bags of engine have two drivers. Only the drivers were classes. Today the field is split into two ­Sarthe” has retained its high-speed ­power. able to undertake repair work, and the prototype classes LM P1 and LM P2, as character. tools and spare parts must be carried on well as the LM GTE Pro and LM GTE board the car. Even today, regulations Am categories for close-to-­production The lap begins with the tight “Dunlop forbid drivers from accepting help racing cars. Chicane”, which leads into the “Dunlop should they encounter problems while Curve” – the circuit’s landmark. This is out on the track. BMW first accepted the challenge of Le followed by the “Esses”, in which there Mans in 1937. To date 120 cars powe- is only one correct line, and even the Nowadays the cars in Le Mans have red by BMW engines have started this slightest mistake on entering the ­section ­three drivers, but the strain is no less classic endurance race. The result is 21 is punished. The “Tertre Rouge” right- enormous. When the endurance classic top ten places and five podiums. In 1995 hander was resurfaced a few years ago, ends on Sunday afternoon, almost all a McLaren F1 GTR powered by a BMW and now offers considerably more grip drivers, mechanics and team manage- V12 engine recorded the first victory. than in the past. ment will have about 30 hours of However, 13 June 1999 will always ­non-stop hard work behind them. Le ­remain a memorable date for BMW Next up is the “Hunaudières” straight, Mans does not allow for breaks. Very few ­Motorsport in relation to Le Mans. This which is about five kilometres long and competitors find time to grab a couple of was the day the manufacturer achieved saw cars reach speeds of over 400 km/h minutes sleep during the spectacle. the first ever triumph there with an in the 1980s. For safety reasons, two ­open-topped sports car. chicanes have been added in order to

92 93 2011 Calendar.

Date Venue series/Event 19/03/11 Sebring (US) ALMS/ILMC 16/04/11 Long Beach (US) ALMS 07/05/11 Spa-Francorchamps (BE) ILMC 11/06/11 Le Mans (FR) ILMC/24h Race 03/07/11 Imola (IT) ILMC 09/07/11 (US) ALMS 24/07/11 Mosport (CA) ALMS 06/08/11 Mid-Ohio (US) ALMS 20/08/11 Road America (US) ALMS 03/09/11 Baltimore (US) ALMS 11/09/11 Silverstone (GB) ILMC 17/09/11 Laguna Seca (US) ALMS 01/10/11 Road Atlanta (US) ALMS/ILMC 13/11/11 Zhuhai (CN) ILMC »

SERIES

Pure excitement. ALMS, ILMC and more.

94 95 »

SERIES

The team led by Bobby Rahal has Road America being the highlight. In a the BMW M3 GTR. That debut season ALMS. amassed valuable ALMS experience dramatic championship finale in Road marked yet another success story: BMW since 2009, particularly proving its Atlanta, the team secured its much-­ drivers scored no less than seven victo- ­mettle in the second half of their maiden celebrated titles. The 2011 season got ries from six pole positions. Jörg Müller Beside its campaigns in 24-hour clas- season. A one-two, four further podium off to a perfect start, when BMW Team won the Drivers’ Championship, BMW sics, BMW Motorsport is contesting the places, two pole positions and three RLL scored a one-two in Sebring. Motorsport claimed the team crown and 2011 American Le Mans Series in ­fastest laps were the fruits of a hard- BMW celebrated the manufacturers’ ­conjunction with BMW of North Ameri- fought season in the GT2 category. BMW’s run of success in North America title. ca. BMW Team RLL enters two BMW began in the series’ initial 1999 season, M3 GT cars in the new GTE class, and, Last season saw BMW Team RLL score followed by further successes in the ­having won the Team and Manufacturer a top-three placing with at least one car following year when the BMW V12 LMR titles in 2010, has its sights firmly set on in eight of the season’s nine rounds, was driven to six ALMS victories. 2001 the Drivers’ Championship. with a second consecutive victory in saw BMW switch to the GT class with

96 97 Turn 7 Sebring Sunset Bend International Raceway.

Turn 8 19 March 2011.

The Sebring International Raceway traditionally hosts the season opener of the American Le Mans Series, with the 12-hour race also counting towards the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup. The circuit is situated on premises previously used by the US Air » Fangio Chicane Force, with concreted former aircraft runways making up sectors of its course. In 1959 Sebring staged the first United States F1 Cunningham Grand Prix. On 19 March 2011, BMW Team RLL opened the new Corner season with a fine one-two in the GT class.

Gurney Bend

Collier Curve

Turn 5 »

Turn 4 SERIES Turn 12 Turn 3

Tower Turn

Flying Fortress Straight Bishop Bend Turn 2 Turn 1 Gendebien Bend Le Mans Curve Track length: 3.7 miles/5.95 kilometres Distance/Duration: 12 hours Fastest lap 2011 (GT): Joey Hand, 2:01.526 mins (BMW M3 GT) Results 2011 (GT): 1st place (Müller/Hand/Priaulx) 2nd place (Werner/Auberlen/Farfus)

99 Turn 4 Turn 5 Long Beach Turn 3 Street Circuit. Turn 2 16 April 2011.

As Monaco’s narrow street circuit is to Formula 1, so the Long Turn 1 Beach Street Circuit is to the American Le Mans Series. This three-kilometre track, which first saw use in 1975, winds its way through the Californian metropolis and past the Con­ vention Centre. With a race duration of just 100 minutes, the BMW Team RLL drivers expect the shortest race of the year. In Turn 6 2010 Bill Auberlen and Tommy Milner scored a podium finish in Long Beach. Turn 8

Turn 7

»

SERIES »

Turn 9

Turn 10 Track length: 1.97 miles/3.17 kilometres Distance/Duration: 100 minutes Fastest lap 2010 (GT): , 1:21.026 mins Turn 11 (Corvette) Results 2010 (GT): 3rd place (Auberlen/Milner) 5th place (Müller/Hand)

101 Big Bend Lime Rock Park. 9 July 2011.

The race at this naturally contoured circuit situated in the ­northwest of the US state of regularly attracts sell- out crowds despite having no grandstands, therefore giving the ­venue a picnic-like atmosphere. The first race was contested at Lime Rock in 1957. Despite being upgraded in 2008, its 1.53- mile layout effectively makes it a sprint circuit. In 2010 BMW Team RLL proved its potential here with second and third. Righthander Lefthander

»

No Name Straight »

SERIES

Uphill

Track length: 1.53 miles/2.46 kilometres Distance/Duration: Downhill 2:45 hours Fastest lap 2010 (GT): Joey Hand, 55.943 secs (BMW M3 GT2) West Bend Results 2010 (GT): 2nd place (Auberlen/Milner) 3rd place (Müller/Hand)

103 Moss Corner Mosport International Raceway. Turn 6 24 July 2011. Turn 2 The heart of Canadian motorsport beats at Mosport Inter­national Raceway, situated near Bowmanville in the province of Ontario. Since 1999 the American Le Mans Series has been a regular visitor to this circuit, originally opened in 1961. The BMW Team RLL drivers expect one of the fastest courses of the season after the BMW M3 GT2 achieved average lap speeds of almost 180 km/h there in 2010. Bill Auberlen and Tommy Milner were placed on the podium in this Canadian race.

Quebec Corner

Mario Andretti Straightaway »

SERIES

Turn 2

Turn 1

The Esses

Track length: 2.55 miles/4.10 kilometres

Distance/Duration: 2:45 hours » Turn 9 Fastest lap 2010 (GT): Jan Magnussen, 1:18.120 mins (Corvette) Results 2010 (GT): 3rd place (Auberlen/Milner) Turn10 11th place (Müller/Hand)

105 Turn 3 Turn 14 Mid-Ohio Sports Turn 5 Car Course. 6 August 2011.

The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, situated at the gates of Turn 7 ­Lexington (US), this year celebrates its 50th anniversary. The layout, upgraded in 2006, demands both supreme skill and cou- Turn 6 rage from drivers, with its most daunting section being the ­“Keyhole”. This 180-degree turn resembles Monza’s legendary “Parabolica”. In 2010 BMW Team RLL continued its run of ­podium finishes here: Bill Auberlen and Tommy Milner were placed third in their BMW M3 GT2. Turn 2

» Turn 2 »

Turn 1 SERIES Turn 8

Track length: 2.4 miles/3.86 kilometres Distance/Duration: 2:45 hours Fastest lap 2010 (GT): , 1:21,.203 mins (Ferrari) Results 2010 (GT): 3rd place (Auberlen/Milner) 6th place (Müller/Hand) Turn 9 107 Turn 3 Road America. Turn 1 20 August 2011.

The race at Road America is of very special significance to BMW Team RLL: In both 2009 and 2010 the team celebrated victory with the BMW M3 GT2. The 6.52-kilometre circuit’s long Turn 9 straights and fast corners perfectly suit the racing version of the BMW M3. Besides staging rounds of the American Le Mans ­Series, the circuit situated in Elkhart Lake in the US state of Turn 10 ­ also hosts NASCAR’s Nationwide Series and ­Grand-Am Series events.

Road America Straight

Turn 8

Turn 11

» »

SERIES Turn 7

Turn 5

Turn 6

Turn 14

Turn 13

Turn 12 Track length: 4.05 miles/6.52 kilometres Distance/Duration: 4 hours Fastest lap 2010 (GT): Oliver Gavin, 2:08.014 mins (Corvette) Results 2010 (GT): 1st place (Hand/Müller) 13th place (Auberlen/Milner)

109 Turn 9

Turn 8 Baltimore Street Circuit. Turn 10 Turn 11 3 September 2011.

Early September sees the American Le Mans Series make its debut in Baltimore when the championship visits this ­temporary street circuit situated on the east coast of the ­United States. The circuit, which leads through Baltimore’s downtown area and past the city’s harbour, promises spec­ tacular racing and tight duels. The Indy Racing League also Turn 6 plans to visit this 2.4-mile circuit during 2011. Turn 7

Turn 5 »

Turn 4 »

SERIES

Turn 3

Track length: 2.4 miles/3.86 kilometres Turn 2 Distance/Duration: 2:45 hours Fastest lap 2010 (GT): not featured on the calendar Results 2010 (GT): not featured on the calendar Turn 1 111 Turn 6 Laguna Seca Raceway. 17 September 2011.

The race at Laguna Seca Raceway is of six hours duration, and ends at dusk. A good result in Monterey is crucial as due to the longer race distance additional points are awarded in this race. Turn 5 The legendary “Corkscrew” is considered one of the most challenging turns on the American Le Mans Series schedule. Rahal Straight BMW has a proud ALMS history at this circuit, with Dirk Müller and Joey Hand narrowly missing GT class honours in the 2010 The Corkscrew event, finishing a close second.

Rainey Curve Turn 4

Andretti Hairpin »

SERIES

Turn 10

Turn 2 Turn 1

» Turn 11

Track length: 2.24 miles/3.60 kilometres Distance/Duration: 6 hours Fastest lap 2010 (GT): Johannes v. Overbeek, 1:23.457 mins (Ferrari) Results 2010 (GT): 2nd place (Müller/Hand) 8th place (Auberlen/Milner)

113 Turn 7 Road Atlanta. 1 October 2011. Turn 6 Road Atlanta is one of the classics on the American Le Mans Series calendar. 1998 saw the first “Petit Le Mans” event Turn 8 ­contested here, with the circuit now being a permanent ALMS fixture. Road Atlanta hosted its first race in 1970. This venue is equally significant for BMW Team RLL: In 2010 the team led by Bobby Rahal dramatically secured both the Team and ­Manufacturer titles here. This “Petit Le Mans” event also counts towards the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup.

Turn 5

Turn 9 »

SERIES

Turn 4 Turn 10 a Turn 10 b

Turn 3 Turn 2

Turn 1

Track length: 2.54 miles/4.01 kilometres » Distance/Duration: 1,000 miles/10 hours Turn 12 Fastest lap 2010 (GT): , 1:20.158 mins (Ferrari) Results 2010 (GT): 4th place (Auberlen/Milner/Werner) 13th place (Müller/Hand/Priaulx)

115 »

SERIES

Asian round in China, BMW Team BMW Team Schnitzer will join the action at Last year, BMW Team Schnitzer claimed ILMC. Schnitzer will be responsible for fielding the six-hour race in Spa-Francorchamps LM GT2 victory in the ILMC season the two BMW M3 GT cars. on 7 May. Just over a month later the team ­finale in Zhuhai. After 202 laps, Jörg travels to Le Mans for the legendary Müller and Dirk Werner took the cheque- Following the debut of the Interconti- The ILMC season gets underway on 19 ­24-hour race (11/12 June), where double red flag in first, 1:32.141 minutes ahead nental Le Mans Cup (ILMC) last year, March 2011 with the classic 12-hour points are awarded for the ILMC classifi- of the second-placed car. This was BMW Motorsport will once again in race at Sebring, which is also the cations After another two European races BMW Team Schnitzer’s maiden victory 2011 line up in the GTE class of this ­curtain-raiser to the American Le Mans in Imola (IT) and Silverstone on 3 July and on mainland China. ­racing series, organised by Automobile Series. One BMW M3 GT2 will be driven 11 September respectively, the ALMS Club de l’Ouest (ACO). BMW Team RLL by Dirk Müller, Hand and Priaulx, while ­finale in Road Atlanta provides the stage will fight for points and victories at the Dirk Werner, Bill Auberlen and Augusto for the second ILMC race in the United two races on American soil. At the four Farfus will alternate behind the wheel of States on 1 October. The season ends in European races and the championship‘s the sister car. China on 12 November.

116 117 Circuit de Spa- La Source Francorchamps.

7 May 2011. » Belgium’s “Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps” is one of Europe’s true classic tracks, having seen its first race in 1922. Nume- rous updates have reduced the circuit’s length to its current Eau Rouge 7.004 kilometres – still the longest on the current Formula 1 schedule. This year motor racing’s premier category makes its Turn 18 44th appearance at Spa. “Eau Rouge” is arguably the most famous corner in the world, and a real test of courage. In 2010 BMW Team Schnitzer visited the circuit twice, contesting the Le Mans Series (LMS) round, and the Spa-Francorchamps 24-hour race. Kemmel

Blanchimont »

SERIES

Pouhon

Turn 16

Les Combes

Malmedy Fagnes Turn 13

Rivage Turn 14 Track length: 7.004 kilometres Stavelot Distance/Duration: 1,000 kilometres/6 hours Results 2010 (LM GT2): 4th place (Priaulx/Farfus/D.Müller) 12th place (J.Müller/Werner/Alzen)

119 Rivazza Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari. 3 JulY 2011.

Despite the history of the “Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari” in Imola harking back to the 1950s, the circuit has seldom ­hosted endurance events, with 1983 seeing the circuit’s last six-hour race. Twenty-six Formula 1 World Championship rounds have been contested at Imola. The circuit’s flowing, anti-clockwise layout includes three chicanes that demand heavy but precise braking if time loss is to be minimised. Variante Bassa Variante Alta

» »

SERIES

Acque Minerali

Piratella

Variante Tamburello

Variante Villeneuve

Track length: 4.933 kilometres Distance/Duration: 6 hours Tosa Results 2010 (LMGT2): not featured on the calendar

121 Stowe Corner . 11 September 2011. Vale The Silverstone Circuit is the home of British Motorsport, with the venue hosting the first-ever world championship Formula 1 Club Corner race in 1950. Endurance racing, too, has an illustrious history at Silverstone. Fans annually make the pilgrimage to the 1,000-­- kilometre race at the circuit situated between Milton Keynes, Northampton and Oxford. The 5.901-kilometre track was ex­ tensively remodelled in 2009, with the Silverstone 1,000km race making its debut on the inaugural Intercontinental Le Mans Cup calendar in 2010.

Chapel Curve

Farm Curve »

SERIES The Loop

Village Corner Becketts Corner Aintree Corner Maggotts Corner Luffield Corner

Wellington Straight

Brooklands Corner » Woodcote Corner

Pits Straight Track length: 5.901 kilometres Distance/Duration: 1,000 kilometres/6 hours Copse Corner Results 2010 (LM GT2): 8th place (J.Müller/Werner)

123 Turn 1 Zhuhai Inter- Turn 2 national Circuit. 13 November 2011.

BMW Team Schnitzer returns to Zhuhai with fond memories. It was here that the team celebrated victory in the LMGT2 class at the finale of the 2010 ILMC season. The Chinese track hosted its first race in 1994. Back then, the cars raced on a Turn 3 street circuit. Motosport events have been held on a per­ manent circuit since 1996. The 4.319-kilometre “Zhuhai International­ Circuit” consists of 14 corners and offers many overtaking opportunities. Zhuhai will once again host the fina- le of the ILMC in 2011.

Turn 4

» Turn 5

Turn 9 »

Turn 6 SERIES

Turn 10 Turn 8 Turn 14

Turn 13 Turn 7

Turn 11 Turn 12

Track length: 4.319 kilometres Distance/Duration: 1,000 kilometres Results 2010 (LM GT2): 1st place (J.Müller/Werner)

125 »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER

Private Teams win with BMW. The BMW Customer Racing programme.

126 127 firmly into their safety . Additional Ground clearance is determined by the protection is provided by the HANS length of the springs and has to accom- (head and neck support system), while modate the ballast while still complying crash-pads in the doors and special with the minimum clearance of 80mm foams inside hollow sections of the car stipulated in the race regulations. absorb the energy of an impact. The tension and compression stroke on Ready for meticulous set-up work. the front and rear axle shock absorbers The engineers devoted a lot of thought also affect the car’s driving characteris- to the modifications required to the­axles tics. They are independently adjustable, and suspension geometry. For instance, with various possible settings influen­ ­sequential Xtrac gearbox, which can they were faced with the task of de­ cing how the car handles sudden chan- the BMW be used to configure the circuit-specific signing the axles to include a camber ges of direction or bumps. The car uses transmission ratio, is another new setting that could be adjusted indepen- ­inner-vented, perforated brake discs and 320 TC. ­feature. dently of any other settings parameters, four-piston aluminium brake callipers at

such as roll centre and track. This would the front. The grey cast iron discs mea- »

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The self-supporting BMW 320 TC body make the axles easier for semi-professio­ sure 332mm in diameter and are 32mm USTO The BMW 320 TC is the further deve- is manufactured in BMW Plant Regens- nal teams to set up. The track width and thick. The car’s rear brakes also feature C IN G M lopment of the BMW 320si WTCC, with burg alongside the production body camber were increased, while the wheel inner-vented discs measuring 291mm ER which Andy Priaulx won the World shells for the BMW 1 and 3 Series. carrier and bearing were carried over in diameter, and two-piston aluminium ­Touring Car Championship for BMW in ­Unpainted the race car chassis weighs from the production model. callipers. 2006 and 2007, and which has allowed in at just 355 kilograms, and is conver- countless privateers to taste success ted by hand for race deployment by The driving characteristics of the BMW around the world. Well over 60 models ­specialists, offering state-of-the- 320 TC are very much determined by its have been delivered to date by BMW art ­safety features afterwards. An springs and damper settings. Lengths ­Motorsport Distribution. ­inte­grated steel safety cell is fitted to the and characteristics of the springs car in ­order to provide driver protection ­chosen depend largely on the track The new BMW 320 TC, which from in the event of a heavy accident. BMW ­profile as well as on surface conditions 2011 can be used in series in ­accordance Motorsport is an FIA accredited analysis and the amount of additional weight with the new Super2000 regulations, is ­centre for safety cells. For extra safety being carried. driven by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine during the race, a six point safety belt with direct injection. The six-speed, system restrains ­drivers, strapping them

128 129 BMW 320 TC. Technical specifications.

Length: 4,539mm Tank capacity: Width: 1,858mm approx. 45 litres Height: 1,350mm Price: 220,000 Euros Wheel base: 2,760mm (racing kit; excl. VAT) Weight: 1,170kg (as per regulations, +/- ballast) »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER Chassis/body: Transmission: Front axle: Front brake system: Unitary construction steel body with Twin-disc carbon fibre clutch operated Double joint strut suspension with in­ Four-piston aluminium brake callipers, welded safety cell made of extremely by a hydraulic central slave cylinder; creased wheel caster angle, enlarged inner-vented grey-cast iron brake discs ­rigid precision steel tubing; safety fuel ­sequential six-speed Xtrac racing trans- track width and enhanced wheel ­camber 332mm in diameter and 32mm thick tank in CFRP sandwich tray, pneumatic mission; additional air/oil cooler; quick compared with the production version, three-stamp rapid jack system shift system with ignition cut-off con­ adjustable shock absorbers; tubular Rear brake system: trolled by shifting force; rear axle casing ­stabiliser bar Two-piston aluminium brake callipers, Aerodynamics: with mechanical limited slip differential grey-cast iron brake discs 291mm in Front apron, rear apron, rocker panel, and additional oil/air cooler Rear axle: diameter, 18mm thick front wings and flared rear wheel arch Five-link axle with enlarged track width made of CRPF, rear wing made of alumi- and enhanced wheel camber compared nium composite material with the production version, adjustable shock absorbers, stabiliser

130 131 Engine type: Four-cylinder inline turbo engine with direct fuel injection and air restrictor Capacity: 1,598cc Bore x stroke: 77 x 85.8mm Compression: max. 12.5:1 (as per regulations) Max. output: approx. 310bhp Max. torque: approx. 420Nm Max. engine speed: 8,500 rpm (as per regulations)

Pistons: Fuel: Forged skirt pistons Control fuel, unleaded Super Plus (E10: 10% ethanol, second generation) Conrods: High-performance steel Engine management: Pectel MQ12 and final stage control unit Cylinder head: IDU, Lambda controller, pit speed limi- Aluminium DOHC (Double Over Head ter Camshaft) construction; four valves per cylinder Wiring harness: Weight-optimised Valvetrain: Two overhead chain-driven camshafts Ignition coil: Four high-performance pencil coils with Exhaust system: integrated ignition drivers Turbo charger, silencer, catalytic conver- ter »

C

Fuel system: RA USTO

Steering: Cockpit: Single cylinder direct injection with 200 C IN G

Rack and pinion steering with electro- Free programmable LCD Display with bar M ER hydraulic power assistance external shift indicating module Lubrication: Wheels: Steering wheel: Dry sump lubrication with oil suction Aluminium rims 9x17 inches Quick release multi-function steering wheel with integrated display unit Cooling: Energy management: Water/air cooler and oil/water heat ex- BMW Motorsport ECU404 with two Cylinder block: changer high-performance micro-processors, Aluminium cylinder block construction individual cylinder injection and ignition, with bed plate lower section Flywheel: pit speed limiter, quick shift function, Optimised motorsport flywheel engine data memory system Crankshaft: Steel crankshaft with reduced bearing diameters

132 133 »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER The Italian ROAL Motorsport team – under (DE) will also be involved (HK) and the “deTeam KK Fighting for the leadership of (IT), the in 2011 with Liqui Moly Team Engstler. Motorsport” celebrate their debut in the 1987 World Touring Car Champion – re- The experienced driver has been racing WTCC. Lee is one of the most experi- the crown. turns to the WTCC in 2011 and, with Tom in the World Touring Car Championship enced and successful Chinese drivers, Coronel (NL) behind the wheel, is looking to since 2007 and has ended the season whose achievements include winning In the 2011 season, BMW will once challenge for points and victories. Scuderia as one of the top three privateers on the 2004 Formula BMW Asia junior again be represented with a strong con- lines up with two BMW ­three occasions since then. His team- ­series. Also jumping into the action in tingent of private drivers in the FIA World 320 TC cars for their drivers Javier Villa mate is (DK). Last year the BMW 320 TC from the European Touring Car Championship (WTCC). ­García (ES) and (MA). The the 35-year-old enjoyed his most season opener in Zolder (BE) will be ­Armed with the new BMW 320 TC, the goal of Team Principal Valmiro Presenzini‘s ­successful WTCC season to date, (HU) from the Zengö BMW privateers will fight for glory in (IT) team is to continue the success enjoyed ­finishing third in the Independents’ Dension Team and Urs Sonderegger both the Independents’ Trophy and the in recent years. They won the title in the ­Trophy. (CH) for Wiechers Sport. overall classification of the series. ­Independents’ Trophy in 2008 and 2010.

134 135 campaign in both the WTCC and other BMW series conforming to the FIA S2000 Team RBM. ­regulations. Profile. Overall efficiency is one of the hallmarks of BMW Team RBM. During his daily­ ­activities Mampaey strives to ensure that time and the resources of his operation By winning four consecutive FIA Tou- are deployed most effectively. In the pro- ring Car Championship titles, BMW cess the team benefits immeasurably Team RBM comprehensively rewrote from the infrastructure of the BMW dea- motorsport history. Led by Team Ma- lership operated by the Mampaey family nager Bart Mampaey, the squad from under the JUMA banner.­ ­Mechelen (BE) not only captured the 2004 European Touring Car Champion­ JUMA is an acronym for Julian Mampa-

ship with Andy Priaulx, but proved to ey, father of the current team boss, who »

C RA be the combination to beat in the World inherited Mampaey senior’s love of USTO ­Touring Car Championship: In 2005, ­motorsport. During the 1970s and C IN G M

2006 and 2007 the entire RBM crew 1980s the JUMA team scored three ER celebrated after each of the respective wins in the gruelling Spa-­Francorchamps season’s finales in Macau (CN). 24 Hours for BMW. In 2002 RBM made a foray into the Therefore it is no surprise that BMW Bart Mampaey was to follow in his ­European Touring Car Championship with Motorsport is once again relying upon father’s footsteps nine years after a BMW 320i entered on behalf of BMW the expertise of Mampaey’s team ­during JUMA’s last race. Initially RBM was res- ­Belgium. A year later the team entered the the development of the BMW 320 TC ponsible for the cars entered in the series under the colours of BMW Great customer car. BMW Team RBM has ­Belgian BMW Compact Cup. However, Britain, having contracted Priaulx as driver. completed thousands of kilometres the Mampaey family soon celebrated its After this learning season, RMB sensatio- with the successor to the BMW 320si return to Spa: A one-two in the nally secured the 2004 ETCC title in ­Dubai. WTCC in preparation for the 2011 category of the 1997 24 Hour race was Mampaey and his team subsequently season, making a crucial contribution to followed a year later by overall victory ­proved that this success was no flash in the package which private teams will with a BMW 318i. the pan by scoring their trio of world titles.

136 137 Facts and figures. BMW Team RBM.

1995 – 1997 BMW Compact Cup 1997 1st and 2nd place Group N 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW) 1998 1st place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (BMW) 1999 4th place 24h race Spa-Francorchamps (Nissan) 2002 6th place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2003 3rd place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2004 1st place FIA ETCC (BMW 320i) 2005 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320i) 2006 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2007 1st place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2008 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2009 4th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si) 2010 4th and 7th place FIA WTCC (BMW 320si WTCC) »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER

Founded: 1995 Team owner: Bart Mampaey Headquarters: Mechelen (BE) Interview. Bart Mampaey.

Mr Mampaey, BMW Team RBM was What are the greatest strengths of intensively involved in the develop­ the BMW 320 TC? ment of the BMW 320 TC. What is “The 1.6-litre turbo engine delivers a lot your impression of the car? more performance and a higher torque “BMW Motorsport is offering a very than its predecessor. This is definitely good package to its customer teams. the biggest difference from the BMW The new regulations make it hard to 320si WTCC. For the drivers, this results judge the relative strength among the in a lot more driving pleasure. The new different cars in the World Touring Car sequential six-gear transmission is also Championship. We’ll have to wait for the an innovation. The new components all first race weekends to find out. As the work perfectly, which means the BMW BMW 320 TC will be driven by private 320 TC will certainly have a good ­chance teams, we have concentrated our focus in its first season.” on themes such as ease of servicing and reliability. The results are quite re­ What do you think the BMW private markable.” teams are capable of in the World Touring Car Championship? Your team has won the world “I will, of course, be crossing my fingers champion­ship three times. Will it be for all the teams who will be competing difficult to follow this year’s races with the BMW 320 TC in 2011. I am from the ­sidelines? ­certain the car brings together all the “I will definitely be watching the races qualities required to enjoy a similar »

on TV to see how well the car performs. ­success to its predecessor.” C RA I wouldn’t say it will be difficult. But it USTO C IN G is clear that the World Touring Car Will the new regulations also change M

­Championship will always have a very anything for the fans? ER special meaning for BMW Team RBM. “It will mean even closer races. With the Our ­successes in the WTCC made our earlier naturally-aspirated engines, team’s name in the motorsport world, ­racing would sometimes simultaneously and we are still very proud of that.” result in a loss of performance due to ­insufficient fresh air passing into the ­engine. With the turbo engine that is no longer the case. Theoretically, the cars should therefore be able to follow each other even closer.”

141 A difference between the production The steel body of the car comes from and racing car can be found under the BMW Plant Regensburg. A safety cell bonnet: while the production version of made of extremely rigid, precision steel the BMW Z4 is driven by a six-cylinder tubing is then welded into the body. engine, the GT3 car is powered by a The engine block of the is 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine. produced in the BMW foundry in Landshut. BMW Plant Dingolfing BMW Motorsport engineers have ­ ­contributes the rear axle differential, also fine-tuned the aerodynamics of among other things. Front and rear the BMW Z4 GT3 for the new season, wings, bonnet, roof, fenders and many ­improving the car‘s performance in this other components are made of carbon area. When it comes to electronics, the fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP). private teams can look forward to inno- vative BMW solutions: The modern ECU408 takes over the engine

­management, while the Power400 »

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electronic control unit is responsible USTO for controlling all the actuators. The C IN G M

power is transmitted through a ER BMW Z4 GT3 at a marathon race of this ­six-speed, sequential gearbox. Gear­ the BMW Z4 scale, having already proven its potential shifts are now initiated using two with wins in its debut season in the FIA ­paddles. GT3. GT3 European Championship.

With its elongated bonnet, the driver’s The BMW Z4 GT3, which was launched compartment towards the rear of the car, in March 2010, achieved its greatest long wheel base and narrow wheel ­arches, success so far in January 2011. Claudia the series version of the BMW Z4 boasts Hürtgen (DE), Augusto Farfus, Tommy an unmistakable appearance. The two- Milner and Edward Sandström (SE) won seater provided BMW Motorsport engi- the Dubai 24 Hours for Team Schubert. neers with a good basis for developing a This was the first overall victory for the competitive GT3 racing car.

142 143 BMW Z4 GT3. Technical specifications.

Length: 4,321mm Weight: Width: 2.010mm approx. 1,200kg Height: 1,210mm Tank capacity: Wheel base: 105 litres 2,510mm Price: 315,000 Euro (excl. VAT) »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER Chassis/body: Transmission: track width and enhanced wheel cam- Front brake system: Unitary construction steel body with Sinter clutch operated by hydraulic cen- ber compared to production version; Six-piston aluminium brake callipers, welded safety cell made of extremely tral slave cylinder; six-speed sequential ­five-way adjustable shock absorbers; inner-vented grey-cast iron brake disks ­rigid, precision steel tubing, safety fuel racing transmission with straight-cut, tubular stabiliser bar 378mm in diameter tank in CFRP sandwich tray, pneumatic unsynchronized gears; additional oil/air four-stamp jack system cooler; quick shift system with ignition Rear axle: Rear brake system: cut-out controlled by shifting force; Longitudinal link axle with two transver- Four-piston aluminium brake callipers, Aerodynamics: ­mechanical differential lock and additio- se control arms, with enlarged track grey-cast iron brake disk, 332mm in Front wings, rear apron, bonnet, roof, nal oil/air cooler width and enhanced wheel camber ­diameter boot lid, rocker panel, doors, front wings compared to production version; five- and flared rear wheel arches made of Front axle: way adjustable shock absorbers, tubular carbon fibre, rear wing made of alu­ Double-joint thrust bar axle, with in­ stabiliser bar minium compound creased wheel caster angle, enlarged

144 145 Engine type: Eight-cylinder, V-configuration Capacity: 4,361cc Bore x stroke: 92 x 82mm Max. engine speed: 8,500rpm

Cylinder block: Lubrication: Aluminium cylinder block construction Dry sump lubrication with bed plate lower section Cooling: Crankshaft: Water/air cooler and oil/water heat ex- Steel crankshaft changer

Pistons: Engine management: Forged skirt pistons BMW Motorsport ECU408 with two high-performance micro-processors; Conrods: individual cylinder injection; pit speed High-performance steel ­limiter; quick Shift function; EML; inte­ grated traction control; VANOS control; Cylinder head: engine data memory system Aluminium DOHC (Double Over Head Camshaft); four valves per cylinder Wiring harness: Weight-optimised

Valve train: »

C

Four overhead chain-driven camshafts, Ignition coil: RA USTO

valve actuation via rocker arms Eight high-performance pencil coils with C IN G

integrated ignition drivers M ER Steering: Steering wheel: Intake system: Rack and pinion steering with electro- Quick release multi-function steering Eight throttle valves Spark plugs: hydraulic power wheel with integrated display unit; High-performance spark plugs ­integrated shifting paddles Exhaust system: Wheels: High-performance header, silencer Aluminium rims, front axle: 11x18­ Energy management: ­inches, rear axle: 11.5x18 inches Electric energy management and Fuel system: ­monitoring with BMW Motorsport Single cylinder multi-point injection Cockpit: ­POWER400 control unit, networking Free programmable LCD Display with through two bus systems integrated shift indicators

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C RA USTO C IN G M ER and Tommy Milner at the 24-hour race in “Our tactics worked perfectly,” added This success once again underlined the Magic Dubai. After 24 hours, the victorious Schubert Team Manager Stefan Wendl. competitiveness of the BMW Z4 GT3. BMW Z4 GT3 crossed the finish line with “At the start of the race we were able to The car had celebrated victories in the moment in Hürtgen at the wheel and a three-lap pull out a two-lap lead with car number FIA GT3 European Championship in its lead over the second-placed car. “Every- 76, which we then had to maintain first year and also impressed on more Dubai. one in the team gave everything – and ­without putting too much strain on the than one occasion on the endurance we were rewarded with the win ­today,” machinery or taking any risks. Some for- ­circuit. In Dubai it sealed its first overall BMW picked up its first victory in the very commented Farfus. “This race is com- tunate circumstances meant we were victory at a 24-hour race. This year the first big race of the 2011 motor racing pletely different to the Nürburgring 24 able to pull even further ahead and ulti- car will again feature on the grid of the season with the BMW Z4 GT3. Need for Hours, which I also won with Team BMW mately wrap up the victory. That is our European Championship and in 24-hour Speed Team Schubert triumphed with Motorsport in 2010. However, I must say: first big victory at a 24-hour race and a classics, among other series and the no. 76 car and drivers Claudia Hürt- Dubai is very special. I really, really great reward for everyone in the team.” events. gen, Augusto Farfus, Edward Sandström ­enjoyed myself.”

148 149 simply the outstanding basis provided Some adjustments were made to the by the BMW M3, with its production brakes, in order to cope with the strains eight-cylinder engine. of the race track and offer drivers maxi- mum safety: six-piston brake callipers A safety cell made of extremely rigid, with 378mm brake discs are used on the precision steel tubing is welded to the front axle. The rear axle features four- steel body required for usage in motor- piston brake callipers with 355mm bra- sport at the BMW Plant Regensburg. ke discs. In addition, the drivers are sup- Thanks to numerous measures desig- ported in difficult situations by a race ned to reduce weight – such as the use ABS and DTC with specific mappings. of the special plastic Makrolon for the side and rear windows – the BMW M3 GT4 weighs just 1,430 kilograms. The fact that the production model of the BMW M3 already has a CFRP roof was a

great help to the engineers when »

C RA

­lowering the car‘s centre of gravity. USTO C IN G

the production model of the BMW M3 M the BMW M3 Everything a race car needs. ER has once again proven to be a godsend The 420bhp engine remained largely GT4. for the engineers in Munich. The car, untouched. The power transmission is which epitomises sportiness from the handled by the mechanical six-speed word go, was enhanced with the safety gearbox, which is also used in the pro- features required for use on the race duction model. The only alterations are track. Additional, minor alterations were the use of an adjustable differential lock The concept behind the GT4 category, made to the engine, transmission, chas- and additional cooling for the rear axle for which the BMW M3 GT4 was deve­ sis and brakes. Then the competitive differential. Adjustable racing shock loped by BMW Motorsport, is a simple GT4 racing car was ready for action. ­absorbers allow the BMW M3 GT4 to be one: The racing cars should have as optimally adjusted to the characteristics much as possible in common with pro- Additional wind tunnel calculations or of the circuit. duction cars, with only minor modifica- CFD simulations were not required tions allowed. Against this background, ­during development. What counted was

150 151 BMW M3 GT4. Technical specifications.

Length: 4,615mm Weight: 1,430kg Width: 1,804mm Tank capacity: Height: approx. 100 litres approx. 1,360mm Price: 123,500 Euros Wheel base: 2,761mm (excl. VAT) »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER Chassis/body: Front axle: Front brake system: Steering: Unitary construction steel body with Double-joint trailing arm axle with en­ Six-piston aluminium brake callipers, Rack and pinion steering with electro- welded safety cell made of extremely larged track width and enhanced wheel inner-vented grey-cast iron brake disks hydraulic power ­rigid, precision steel tubing; doors made camber, two-way adjustable shock 378mm in diameter of CFRP, safety fuel tank in CFRP sand- ­absorbers Wheels: wich tray, pneumatic four-stamp jack Rear brake system: Aluminium rims, front axle: 9.5x18 system Rear axle: Four-piston aluminium brake callipers, ­inches, rear axle: 10x18 inches Five-link axle with enlarged track width grey-cast iron brake disks, 355mm in Transmission: and enhanced wheel camber compared diameter Cockpit: Sinter clutch operated by hydraulic central to production version; two-way adjus- Free programmable LCD display with slave cylinder; six-speed H-transmission; table shock absorbers ­internal shift indicators additional oil/air cooler; mechanical diffe- rential lock and additional oil/air cooler

152 153 Engine type: Eight-cylinder, V-configuration Capacity: 3,999cc Bore x stroke: 92 x 75.2mm Compression: 12.0:1 Max. output: approx. 420bhp Max. engine speed: 8,500rpm

Intake system: Eight throttle valves

Exhaust system: High-performance header, silencer

Fuel system: Single cylinder multi-point injection

Lubrication: Wet sump lubrication

Cooling: Water/air cooler and oil/water heat ­exchanger

Engine management: As in series version »

C RA USTO

Wiring harness: C IN G

Weight-optimised M ER Cylinder block: Conrods: Aluminium cylinder block construction High-performance steel Ignition coil: with bed plate lower section Eight high-performance pencil coils with Cylinder head: integrated ignition drivers Crankshaft: Aluminium DOHC (Double Over Head Steel crankshaft Camshaft); four valves per cylinder Spark plugs: High-performance spark plugs Pistons: Valve train: Forged skirt pistons Four overhead chain-driven camshafts, valve actuation via rocker arms

154 155 »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER world, for the 50th time. Since its debut successes with BMW cars. Through Many of the BMW Sports Trophy BMW Sports in 1962, the event has become a regular their performances around the world, ­participants’ victories have come from highlight in the motorsport calendar and the private drivers demonstrate clearly cars in the current customer racing pro- Trophy. attracts a growing number of partici- the competitiveness of the racing cars duct range. And the BMW private drivers More than a sports pants every year. from Munich. Almost every motorsport can win points for the BMW Sports competition. weekend, you can find BMW drivers ­Trophy right around the world. Currently, Last season alone, more than 214 ­lifting winner’s trophies into the air – the points are awarded in more than 30 ­drivers from 25 countries and 32 inter- perfect brand ambassadors. ­championships. These include the FIA national racing series competed for WTCC, several national championships The BMW Sports Trophy celebrates a points in the BMW private driver ­rankings as well as the 24-hours races at the special anniversary in 2011 – this year, – more than ever before. It has always ­Nürburgring, in Spa-Francorchamps BMW presents the competition, which been important for the brand to support and in ­Dubai. supports private drivers from around the private drivers and teams, who notch up

156 157 The BMW Sports Trophy winners since 2000.

Year Driver Car 2000 Peter Cunningham (US) BMW M3 2001 Boris Said (US) BMW M3 GTR 2002 Duncan Huisman (NL) BMW 320i 2003 Andy Priaulx (GB) BMW 320i 2004 Richard Göransson (SE) BMW 320i 2005 Franz Engstler (DE) BMW 320i 2006 Claudia Hürtgen (DE) BMW 320i, BMW 120d 2007 (GB) BMW 320i 2008 Franz Engstler (DE) BMW 320si, BMW 320i, BMW Z4 M Coupé 2009 Colin Turkington (GB) BMW 320si 2010 Richard Göransson (SE) BMW 320si »

C RA USTO C IN G M ER This year once again, the prize money for the BMW Sports Trophy will total ­almost 250,000 Euros. The most ­successful private drivers will be ­crowned at the end of the year at a ­special ceremony. However, this im­ pressive ­prize pot isn’t the only reason for taking part in the BMW Sports ­Trophy. Many cooperation partners also offer their products at very favourable ­rates to the competition ­participants.

158 »

H ISTOR Y The success story. BMW in production car racing.

160 161 In 1987, the first year in touring car­racing More titles and triumphs. BMW introduced the racing version of Successful became a triumphal procession for the From 2000, the powerful heart of the the fourth generation of the BMW M3 at BMW M3. The BMW works car won the third generation of the BMW M3 was the the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Driven by model: the three most important titles. Roberto 343 bhp, six-cylinder engine. This car an eight-cylinder engine, BMW Team ­Ravaglia was crowned the first World also formed the basis for the BMW M3 RLL has been running the car in the BMW M3. Touring Car Champion, Winfried Vogt CSL. Thanks to an increased engine ALMS since 2009. The BMW M3 GT2 (DE) won the European Championship, performance of 360bhp, and a radical, promptly delivered both the Team and and (BE) took the lightweight construction, this model Manufacturer titles in the GT class in ­honours in the DTM. One year later, produced a weight-to-power ratio of 2010. The car also achieved success on The BMW M3 is a legend – whether as a ­Ravaglia added the European Champion­ 3.85kg/bhp – a value that allowed the its debut at a European 24-hour classic: sporty production model or a pure ­racing ship to his world title. In 1989, ­Ravaglia BMW M3 to set new standards regar- Jörg Müller, Augusto Farfus, Uwe Alzen car. It has now thrilled BMW customers also won the DTM and followed this up ding dynamics. and Pedro Lamy claimed the 19th ­overall around the world and celebrated win by winning the title in his homeland of victory for BMW at the Nürburgring- ­after win on the race track for more than Italy in 1990. By 1992, BMW ­drivers had BMW lined up in the 2001 American Le Nordschleife. 25 years. During this period, four gene- secured eight European championships Mans Series with the racing version – rations of the BMW M3 have been and 60 national titles with the BMW the BMW M3 GTR – and immediately ­produced. Each of these is unique in its M3. won all the important titles in the GT own way. It can come as no surprise, class. In 2004, the V8-powered sports therefore, that the fan base for this fore- Launched in 1992, the second BMW car also caused a sensation in Europe, runner for a new species of particularly M3, which was based on the E36 coupé especially at the 24-hour classic at the sporty production car, which is still production model boasting a six-cylin- Nürburgring. The trio of Dirk Müller, ­suitable for everyday use, is increasing der engine generating 286bhp under Jörg Müller and Hans-Joachim Stuck all the time. the bonnet, achieved extraordinary crossed the line in first place after 143 ­performance at that time. Increased laps. They were followed by the second The success story began in 1985 with ­demand for a four-door model meant BMW crew – Pedro Lamy, Boris Said the concept of a sports car based on the »

the second generation of the BMW M3 and Duncan Huisman – in second place. H ISTOR BMW 3 Series. The road-going version was built as a limousine, as well as the Twelve months later, BMW claimed had already been designed for later use coupé and versions. another one-two. This time Lamy/Said/ Y on the race track as the basis for the Huisman and their new team-mate Andy ­homologation of the race car. Driven by Priaulx took the chequered flag as a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produ- ­winners. Müller/Müller/Stuck finished cing 355bhp, this racing version of the runners-up. BMW M3 achieved one victory after another.

162 163 (NZ), (SE) and Niki At home in ­Lauda (AT) drove BMW touring cars. At the wheel of the BMW 320 fielded by the touring car Schnitzer Team, (DE) won the German Motor Racing Championship in racing. 1978.

In the mid-1980s, the impressive BMW 635 CSi Coupé was the force to be Right from the very beginning of the reckoned with in the European Touring company’s history, BMW has enjoyed Car Championship. Following individual ­racing success around the world, whether race wins in 1985, Italian driver Roberto on motorcycles, in sports cars, at rallies, Ravaglia secured the European Champi- in Formula 2 or Formula 1. However, onship in 1986. 1987 saw the BMW M3 ­touring cars have always been particular- line up on the grid: countless wins made ly important for the brand. In the 1960s, it a legend on the touring car scene. For touring car racing became the central the introduction of a new category of ne- ­pillar of BMW’s motorsport activities. ar-production touring cars – initially Senior (DE), at the wheel of a known as Class 2 or the two-litre class, BMW 700, took the German Champions- later Super Touring Cars or STC for short hip title in 1960. In 1964, – BMW set about building another super- (DE) drove the BMW 1800Ti to victory in lative touring car: the BMW 320i. From the German Circuit Championship. Follo- 1993 through to 1998, this 320i won wing the launch of the BMW 2000Ti, BMW 29 championship titles around the in 2004. This time the Drivers’ Champion­ – made its debut in the FIA World Touring ­Josef Schnitzer (DE) carried off the world, including three in Germany. ship also went to BMW, with Andy Priaulx Car Championship in 2006 and immedia-

­German Touring Car Championship two finishing just ahead of fellow BMW driver tely proved to be a born winner, with BMW »

H ISTOR years later. Serial winner. Dirk Müller. This took BMW’s total of Euro- and Priaulx ­successfully defending both After a gap of 13 years, the FIA once again pean titles in touring car racing to 24. titles. In 2007 the World Championship Y The BMW 2002 in which gave its sanction to the European was once again decided in Macau – and (AT) claimed the European Touring Car Champion­ship in 2001. (NL) im- In 2005 another World Championship in once again it was BMW who had reason Championship in 1968 and 1969 marked mediately claimed the title for BMW in touring car racing was staged for the first to celebrate. Priaulx won the drivers’ title the first use of a turbocharger, and 2001, driving a BMW 320i. From 2002 time since 1987. Driving for BMW Team for the third time in a row. BMW also ­between 1973 and 1979, another six Eu- ­onwards, the ETCC was a firm fixture on UK, Priaulx secured the title at a thrilling ­successfully defended its title in the ropean Touring Car Championship titles the motor ­racing agenda of BMW. After season finale in Macau, BMW claimed ­Manufacturers’ Championship again. were taken with the BMW 3.0 CSL. winning the Manufacturers‘ title in 2003, the Manufacturers’ title. The successor to BMW teams went on to pick up a further ­ greats such as Chris Amon BMW ­repeated the feat with races to spare the BMW 320i – the BMW 320si WTCC 23 ­victories between 2008 and 2010.

164 165 »

Side by side PARTNERS to victory. The partners of BMW Motorsport.

166 167 » PARTNERS

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Holding Randstad the Dutch of filiate tures, as well as value for money. At Crowne Crowne At money. for value as as well tures, opportunities for the future and places the company in the world's top three lubricants manufacturers. 2008 sees sees 2008 manufacturers. lubricants three top world's the in company the places and future the for partnership This opportunities Motorsport. BMW with and Group BMW the with com partnership for both Strategic its in products, continue quality Castrol high of development never-ending Castrol’s to imperative remains facilities. www.crowneplaza.com and leisure plus fitness the lobby access in speed internet and the production car owners around the world. world. the around owners car the production and » GT-TEAMS » SERVICE 171 ressClub can be P can be found on the BMW BMW Group esults and news The at: www.press..com. found R official BMW Motorsport website at www.bmw-motorsport.com. are are sent online endurance racing Qualifying Qualifying and race reports out on racesession last the of end the after ­minutes weekends around the race. the end of or 60 The latest press releases, press kits and photos are available at www.press.bmwgroup- sport.com.

mailing list list mailing are are sent generally out on the reviews reviews ress ress releases in English and German Monday ahead of a race weekend. a race ahead of Monday P are available in various email formats fax. by html) or pdf, only, (text the to changes for Requests should be sent [email protected], Florian Haasper: +49(0)89-51 55 58 11. fax P

170

BMW Group BMW Affairs Corporate Sports Communications Ingo Lehbrink D-80788 Munich Phone: +49 (0)89-382 760 03 : +49 (0)89-382 275 63 Fax Email: [email protected] ce. Servi

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