One of the most unique opportunities at any BMW CCA Oktoberfest, presented by Michelin, is the chance to see (and hear, and feel) some of the most famous racing BMWs in North American motorsports history. Every year the true enthusiasts at BMW USA Classic bring out a few of them for display, demonstration, and perhaps even some hot laps—as in this video from last year’s Oktoberfest in New Orleans.
Last year BMW USA Classic showcased a range of GT racers from the 1990s through the 2010s—and all were available for hot laps! From the gated-manual E46 M3 GT2 to the sequential-manual E92 M3 GT2, and finally up to the near-contemporary Z4 GTLM, it was a living, breathing demonstration of BMW’s GT racing prowess over the last twenty years.
But even cooler was the opportunity for attendees to experience hot laps in all three cars, with drivers including BMW NA’s Tom Plucinsky and Alex Schmuck, as well as BMW Performance Center instructor Mike Renner—and of course BMW factory driver and racing legend Bill Auberlen.
Best of all, proceeds from hot-lap tickets go to charity, supporting the BMW CCA Foundation and their efforts to preserve BMW’s history in the U.S. and to educate young drivers through the Tire Rack Street Survival program.
Want to see more BMW Motorsport legends in action? The BMW CCA will be hosting hot laps during the track events at the 49th Annual BMW CCA Oktoberfest, presented by Michelin, held from July 9—14 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Drivers Tom Plucinsky, Alex Schmuck, Kevin Phillips, and Bill Auberlen will be driving, and the vehicles of choice will be the two Z4 GTLMs as well as the legendary BMW M1. Come get a ride around the Pittsburgh International Race Complex!
Sign up now—this is going to be a year to remember!—David Rose
