BMW has revealed a new race car based on its latest 2-Series model. The race car is called the “M235i Racing”, and it’s been designed specifically for next year’s VLN Endurance Championship in Germany, whose highlight is the Nürburgring 24 Hours. BMW is also considering it for its own BMW Sports Trophy, which currently employs 3-Series and Z4-based race cars.

A new video of the car in testing--wearing only minimal camouflage--shows us its performance chops while laying down a straight-six soundtrack that's sure to thrill any Bimmerphile.

Starting with the sportier M235i from BMW’s M Performance line, output from the car’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine is dialed up to 333 horsepower, up from a stock 322-horsepower rating. Other requirements included recalibrating the ABS, stability and traction control systems for motorsport use.

The race car also comes with a number of options lifted straight out of the M Performance catalog, such as the front and rear spoilers, integrated rear diffuser, carbon fiber side mirror housing and mechanical limited-slip differential. Finally, the race car is also fitted with features such as an FIA-certified safety cell and sealed fuel tank.

The choice of upgrades is an interesting topic for sports car fans, as they provide clues as to what BMW’s M engineers will offer for a potential ‘M2’ version said to be in the works and due in 2015. As previously reported, this new M2 is expected to feature carbon fiber panels, mechanical limited-slip differential and an uprated chassis, all of which are featured on the new M235i Racing.

BMW is offering the M235i Racing to customer teams for 59,500 euros (approximately $80,560), which is very reasonable considering the stock M235i already costs $44,025. Race cars of this caliber can easily sell for more than double that figure.

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