Driving report: The new GT4 in the sim racing test

Introduction

The BMW M4 G82 GT4 has recently become available in iRacing and the sim racing community finally has the opportunity to experience this brand new GT4 car on the virtual race tracks. The M4 G82 GT4 offers a successful mix of performance and driving fun and has the potential to establish itself as a new benchmark in the GT4 class of iRacing. In this driving report, we look at the technical data, compare the driving behavior with other GT4 vehicles and share our driving impressions on the Nordschleife.

Source: https://www.iracing.com/cars/bmw-m4-g82-gt4/

Technical data

• Engine: 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo, inline six-cylinder
• Power: approx. 550 hp (varies by iRacing BoP)
• Torque: 650 Nm
• Transmission: 7-speed sequential
• Weight: approx. 1,450 kg
• Aero: Optimized aerodynamics with more downforce for greater cornering stability
• Assistance systems: Racing ABS, traction control (TCS)

1. Driving behaviour in detail

In direct comparison with other GT4 vehicles in iRacing, the BMW M4 G82 GT4 shows its strengths particularly in terms of agility and precision. While the Aston Martin GT4 seems a bit slower, the G82 offers a well-balanced driving experience.

Handling and cornering

What sets the G82 apart from its competitors is its agile cornering. Especially in the technical sections of the Nordschleife, such as the Hatzenbach or the tight combination of curves on the Karussell, the BMW can be steered precisely and remains stable even at high speeds. The optimized aerodynamics ensure impressive grip, which is particularly noticeable when changing corners quickly. Nevertheless, the rear end is slightly nervous in some situations, especially when changing direction suddenly or cornering at excessive speeds. This is typical for GT4 vehicles and gives the driver the opportunity to drive the vehicle exactly at the limit.

Straight-line running and acceleration

On the straights, such as the Döttinger Höhe, you can feel the M4 G82's 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine exerting its power. Acceleration is powerful but not overwhelming - typical for the GT4 class. Compared to other GT4 vehicles, the G82 feels fast on long straights but not overpowering. It is the interplay of performance and handling that makes it so special.

2. Driving impression on the Nordschleife

Our first laps on the Nordschleife in iRacing put the BMW M4 G82 GT4 through its paces. The track is known for its challenging combinations of fast straights and tight corners, and the G82 shows what it can do here. The car quickly inspires confidence, and even in difficult passages such as the Fuchsröhre or Schwalbenschwanz the vehicle remains well controllable. The BMW feels more agile than some of its GT4 competitors and is a strong performer in both the corners and the straights.

Pure driving pleasure

Despite the slightly nervous rear end, which is noticeable when accelerating quickly out of tight corners, the G82 is simply fun to drive. The sim racer gets precise feedback from the track and can drive the vehicle very precisely to the limit. The driving pleasure of the BMW comes into its own especially on the Nordschleife, where every lap requires concentration.

Sound

The sound of the BMW M4 GT4 G82 is a real highlight. The inline six-cylinder engine roars through the long straights at full acceleration and gives the sim racer the feeling of sitting in a real racing car. The sound contributes significantly to the immersion and enhances the experience in the cockpit, especially when driving in the slipstream of other vehicles.

3. Conclusion

The BMW M4 GT4 G82 is a great addition to iRacing. Its precise handling, strong performance and distinctive sound make it a top favorite in the GT4 class. The slightly nervous rear does require some skill at the wheel, but that's exactly what makes it so appealing. Anyone looking for a balanced yet challenging vehicle will find their new favorite in the BMW M4 GT4 G82. A clear recommendation for sim racers looking for more thrills and racing atmosphere in the GT4 class.

First live driving impression

Do you want to see the BMW M4 GT4 G82 in action on the Nordschleife? Check out my stream excerpt as a highlight on my Twitch channel BlueEis_ and see for yourself how the new GT4 car performs in the green hell!