Only 40: BMW Launches 2012 M3 Competition Edition Frozen Silver Edition for U.S.

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BMW will sell just 40 examples of the 2012 M3 Competition Edition, a special-edition M3 coupe whichpays homage to the fact that 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of BMW's M performance division. The Competition Edition cars wear unique paint and styling elements, and are fitted with performance-oriented standard equipment.

The M3 Coupes wears BMW's unique Frozen Silver finish, which layers a silk matte clear coat over the regular Silver Metallic paint. The result is a paint that has a "rare metallic luster." To provide contrast, the car's hood vents, chrome exterior trim, grilles, and exhaust tips are all painted black. The M3 also wears black, 19-inch wheels styled like those on the BMW M3 GTS.

Inside is black leather upholstery with silver accent stitching, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and rear carbon fiber trim for the dashboard and center console. As a reference to BMW's prowess in racing championships, the steering wheel and door sill plates also feature a special M3 checkered flag emblem, while the handbrake bears a bold "M Power" logo.

The special-edition M3 comes with several options packages as standard: the Competition Package, which includes Dynamic Damper Control and sports suspension with a lower ride height; the Cold Weather Package, which bundles a ski bag, heated front seats, and headlight washers; and the Premium Package, which includes power-folding mirrors, Comfort Access keyless entry, a power rear sunshade, and rear parking sensors.

The 2012 BMW M3 Competition Edition costs $81,060 (including an $875 destination charge). That's roughly a $10,000 premium over a comparably equipped M3 coupe, which carries an MSRP of $71,075. One car will be allocated to each of the first 40 BMW USA dealerships that became M Certified. Such dealerships have prepared special areas to showcase M performance cars, and have staff who have completed additional driver training at the BMW Performance Driving School in South Carolina.

Source: BMW

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