Unwilling to let Audi hog the diesel racecar limelight, BMW is making big noises about its own new diesel racer. No, BMW is not returning to Le Mans, but instead has produced a new race car based on the 120d for purchase by customer teams. BMW lays claim to the first significant diesel racecar victory when a 320d won the Nurburgring 24 Hours race in 1998.
Aimed at durability races such as the Nurburgring, the 120d is powered by an uprated version of the 2-litre turbocharged engine found under the bonnet of the production cars. Thanks to BMW's motorsport division, it now produces 245bhp and peak torque is a whopping 332lb.ft.
Other mechanical changes include a lowered suspension with adjustable anti-roll bars and dampers and 332mm front disc brakes with six-piston callipers and 284mm rear disc brakes with four-piston callipers. Lightweight BBS alloy wheels, a full aero package including rear diffuser, and a stripped out interior are also included in the 95,000 Euros plus tax (on top of the price of the standard 120d) package. Don't expect a road version.
Shane O' Donoghue - 23 Mar 2006