The factory backed BMW M235i entry in the Nurburgring 24 Hours will sport a special livery inspired by the popular BMW Art Car series. Number 235, the M235i will start the race from 17th on the grid.
"I am delighted we will get to see this model at the 24-hour race, as well as the many BMW M235i Racings fielded by our privateer teams," said Jens Marquardt, Director of BMW Motorsport. "The livery on this special BMW M235i Racing is fantastic. I must pay a huge compliment to the staff in the Design department. With almost 50 racing cars in the field, the variety of BMW racing cars at the Nurburgring-Nordschleife is once again mighty impressive in 2014. However, this particular car adds a very special splash of color and I am certain it will go down well with the fans."
Drivers of the BMW M235i include journalists Marcus Schurig and Jethro Bovingdon, as well as BMW Motorsport driver Alexander Mies and former MotoGP rider Alex Hofmann. Based on their performance during qualifying in April, the number 235 car will start from 17th overall on the grid.
This example of M235i racing car has kept close to its roots, sharing many of the same components as its road going cousin. The 3.0 liter, turbocharged inline-six produces 333 horsepower, which should easily push through the grueling endurance race. Aside from the mandatory FIA approved roll cage, many of the parts on the racing M235i can be bought straight from BMW. A mechanical limited-slip differential comes from the BMW parts catalog, which should help the M235i keep the power to the ground. Factory aerodynamics have been improved with new front and rear spoilers, a rear diffuser, and lightweight carbon fiber mirrors developed by BMW Performance Parts.
BMW's driving aids have been designed with motorsports in mind, and the M235i will do its best to keep its drivers on the track and out of trouble. Far from the purpose built prototypes in other racing series, the M235i race car has been designed to fit anyone from the novice all the way up to seasoned professionals.
It may not have the prestige of a factory prototype at Le Mans, but this weekend's Nurburgring 24 Hours will undoubtedly be a challenge to all who enter. Coverage from the 24 hour race will include onboard video from the number 235 BMW.
