This week, we hosted an evening track session at Brands Hatch in collaboration with Track Obsession for our customers and friends of R44 Performance. Set on the Indy Circuit, the event brought together a great mix of BMWs and like-minded enthusiasts for a relaxed but focused few hours on track. With the sun setting over the circuit and, thankfully, the rain staying away, it was the perfect setting to catch up, put some cars through their paces, and enjoy what we’re all here for – driving.
The mix of both people and cars on the day was spot on. We had everything from completely standard daily drivers to fully sorted track builds, with G Series, F Series, and even a few clean E Series models out on track. Some were there for their first proper session, others were clearly regulars – but everyone shared the same laid-back attitude and respect for each other - even borrowing each other’s trousers to pass the marshals. It made for a chilled vibe in the paddock and clean, enjoyable laps out on the circuit.
Speaking of the circuit, it was Brands Hatch’s Indy layout - a shortened variation of the course which was perfect for squeezing in plenty of laps without needing loads of seat time to get up to speed. The compact layout also meant everyone was close together, which added to the atmosphere thanks to everyone following the track guidelines and giving each other space.
Some Of The BMWs:
Amongst all the amazing BMWs in attendance, here are just a few notable mentions.
This is Jamie's 1,000+ bhp G80 M3 single-turbo. Despite the lag from the big Precision 6870 turbo and incredible straight-line performance, Jamie managed to keep the car in check through the corners and bring it back in one piece. Fun fact: Jamie drives using hand controls which makes his laps even more impressive - huge shoutout to him.
Next, we have David and his track-built E46 M3. David also brought along his Carbonerre widebody AMG GT S for some laps which was a sight to see. The E46 M3 was definitely more at home though with its rear seat delete, roll cage, Corbeau bucket seats, plenty of aero, coilovers, a big brake kit, lightweight wheels and so much more. With E46 M3s creeping up in price, it’s nice to see them still being used and pushed to the limit.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, we have Anthony in his pretty-much standard G87 M2. These cars are so good out of the box but Anthony did upgrade his brake pads to some Pagid RSL29s - one of the best track pads available for BMWs + some upgraded brake fluid as the OEM BMW fluid can’t really withstand repeated heavy braking.
Unfortunately, we can’t feature everyone’s car but we enjoyed seeing each and every one of them out doing laps.
As for the R44 development cars, we brought along our F80 M3 track build to really showcase some of our most popular track modifications. This car is on Nitron coilovers with a range of suspension secrets adjustable components with the geometry perfected by our good friend Luke. The F80 has an EBC Apollo 6-piston big brake kit, running RP-X pads, HEL brake lines and MOTUL RBF660 brake fluid. Beyond that, it has an SW Motorsports rear seat delete & roll cage, Tillett B10 carbon bucket seats, and a JQ Werks steering wheel system paired with a MOMO Montecarlo alcantara wheel. For a full breakdown of the build and its spec list, check out our feature here.
To be honest, there wasn't much time the F80 wasn't on track giving passenger laps to everyone in the R44 pit garage.
We also had our content creator Dylan out on track for the first time in his F87 M2 Competition clubsport build. This car benefits from Moton suspension, EBC 2-piece floating brake discs, EBC Bluestuff brake pads, and upgraded HEL brake lines with MOTUL fluid. Similar to the F80, this car has also had the works from Suspension Secrets and GeobyLuke. To learn more about the modifications made to this car, check out its full feature here.
What’s Next?
Coming up on the 17th of June 2025, we are hitting Donington Park for a full-day session. We appreciate Brands Hatch was quite far south so Donington is a bit more central within the UK.
Tickets are now available here.
Booking your track day with R44 Performance offers more than just time on the circuit — it's a full experience. You'll have the opportunity to see our development vehicles in action, meet the R44 Performance team, and enjoy complimentary food and drink throughout the event. Our events also provide a unique chance to explore and test a range of high-quality BMW track parts and products, giving you hands-on insight into the upgrades we trust and use ourselves.
Donington Park - Event Details:
- Venue: Donington Park (National Circuit)
- Date: Tuesday 17th June 2025
- Format: Full Day Open Pitlane
- Noise Limit: 98dB Static / 92dB Drive-by
- Overtaking: Left-hand side on straights only
- Track Time: Begins at 10:00 am
