RM Auctions Amelia Island sale on 10th March has, as every RM sale does, a wealth of fabulous cars for sale. In this auction there's a Porsche 964 collection, an Aston DB6 Vantage, a Peugeot 205 T16 and dozens more sensational lots.
Our attention has been caught by this BMW M3, though; not only has it been beautifully photographed for the auction catalogue, it also represents an extremely rare bit of BMW motorsport history. Built in 2001 by Prototype Technology Group for the Rolex Grand-Am Series in the US, this particular M3 was one of two built that used the M5's S62 V8. So it was this car, and not the later M3 GTR, that was the first M3 to compete in North America with a V8.
It was a tremendously successful car as well, this very M3 taking GT class victories at Homestead, Lime Rock and Mid-Ohio ahead of clinching second in the championship that year. Following use in club competition until 2012, the car was refreshed by its original makers then but hasn't been used since.
Ready to go with an extensive spares package, this M3 GT V8 looks a great way into a significant BMW racer for those with $300k going spare. If not, then it at least makes for a lovely new desktop wallpaper - get downloading!