Grassroots Motorsports reports NASA has announced a new "Spec" class for the BMW E36 M3. Unlike their SpecE30 (for E30 325s) and Spec3 (for E36 325s), the new class for the ever-popular E36 M3 does not require specific brands of suspension pieces or tires. This is also contrary to the BMWCCA's Spec E36 Club Race class (for E36 325).

Other than the rollcage and other normal safety equipment such as a window net, electric cutoff switch, and fire extinguisher, the rules fit the M3s we commonly see at autocrosses and driver schools. The requirement that catalytic converters be retained means there's no reason a SpecM3 can't remain street legal. Until there are enough entries for their own class, these M3s will fit NASA's GTS-2 class as well as the SCCA's ITE and BMWCCA's IP.

Some rules highlights:
Stock body
Maximum 9" wide wheels of any diameter
Any R-compound tires with maximum width of 245mm (255mm allowed if treadwear rating is above 100)
Stock brake calipers and stock-type rotors. Pads are free.
Suspension dampers from normal suppliers, single or double adjustable (Koni, Bilstein, H&R, KW, AST 410s)
Coil springs, sway bars, and camber plates are free
Engine modifications are limited to cold air intakes, ECU chips/software, oil pan baffles, water pump, oil cooler, and exhaust aft of the cats.
US -spec E36 cars only. Minimum weight for '95 3.0-liter cars is 3,100 lbs. Minimum weight for the '96+ 3.2-liter cars is 3,250 lbs.
Stock transmissions
Choice of two differential ratios: 3.15:1 or 3.23:1
OE flywheel, OE or OE-type clutch

More details can be found at specm3.com