Special editions of the BMW M3 play an integral part in making BMW, BMW M and the M3 emblem itself such desirable trademarks. From the original E30 M3 and its Sport Evo incarnations to icons like the M3 CSL and M3 Lightweight, there’s certainly no shortage of special or celebratory M3 models. But there’s one that arguably outshines them all: the BMW E90 M3 CRT.
With even more powerful M3s coming down the road – not to mention M4 models like the M4 GTS and M4 CSL – it’s hard to imagine a car that BMW has put more effort into producing. Its incredibly low production volume and seemingly endless special details make it a major heartbreaker – for enthusiasts and collectors. So it stands to reason that if you somehow manage to drive a car, make a video. And maybe even a little bubbly.
The BMW E90 M3 CRT: The best of the best
The BMW E90 M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) is one of the rarest and most fascinating M3s ever built. Introduced in 2011 as a farewell limited edition of the E9X generation, only 67 examples were produced. All sedans and all powered by the same 4.4-liter V8 as the M3 GTS. This S65 engine produced 450 horsepower and revved at 8,300 rpm. It was also mated exclusively to BMW’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. True to the “CRT” name, extensive use of carbon fiber has reduced weight by around 150 pounds compared to the standard M3, improving agility and performance. Each car featured a unique Frozen Polar Silver paint job, red accents, and a lightweight carbon fiber hood and seats. The result was a four-door super sedan that delivers true track performance without sacrificing everyday usability. Arguably a perfect expression of BMW M’s motorsport DNA.
Today the E90 M3 CRT is considered an almost mythical M car with high collector value. Although the car was never officially available in the United States, show or display regulations allowed at least one car to remain under the radar. At least we’re assuming that’s how the owner brought the car here, since we don’t know of any other way the car could be (legally) driven on US roads. Given the limited production and obvious historical significance, it is not surprising that the CRT meets the otherwise very strict regulations.
Regardless of how or why this particular BMW E90 M3 CRT got here, we’re glad it did. Take a journey with Miles, host of the Cars with Miles YouTube channel, and experience first-hand what makes the M3 CRT special. It certainly helps that he’s clearly an enthusiast who realizes he’s come face to face with BMW royalty. Watch below!
