BMW M3 and M4 are two of the most iconic sports cars in the world, and they have been the subject of many debates among car enthusiasts. Both models have been around for decades, and they have evolved significantly over the years. The M3 and M4 are very similar in many ways, but they also have some significant differences that set them apart from each other.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance sports sedan that has been around since the 1980s. It has always been one of the most popular cars in the BMW lineup, and it has earned a reputation for being fast, agile, and fun to drive. The M4, on the other hand, is a two-door coupe that was introduced in the mid-2010s. It was designed to replace the two-door M3, and it has quickly become one of the most popular sports cars in the world.
The BMW M3: A Brief Overview
The BMW M3 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1986. It is a compact executive car that has been designed to offer a thrilling driving experience while still maintaining the practicality of a daily driver. The M3 is considered one of the most iconic cars in the BMW lineup and has a rich history of excellence in performance and engineering.
The latest generation of the BMW M3 is the G80, which was introduced in 2021. The G80 M3 is available in two versions: the standard M3 and the M3 Competition. Both versions are powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The M3 Competition, however, has been tuned to produce 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.
The BMW M3 has always been known for its impressive performance capabilities, and the latest generation is no exception. The G80 M3 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its class. It also has a top speed of 180 mph, which is more than enough for most drivers.
In terms of features, the BMW M3 comes with a host of advanced technologies and amenities. Some of the notable features include:
- Leather seats
- 16-speaker audio system
- LED headlights
- Adaptive M suspension
- M compound brakes
- M Drive system
- Rear-wheel drive
The BMW M4: A Brief Overview
The BMW M4 is a high-performance luxury sports car that is part of the BMW M Series. It was first introduced in 2014 as a replacement for the BMW M3 Coupe and is available as a two-door coupe or convertible.
The BMW M4 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but an optional eight-speed automatic transmission is also available.
The M4 has a top speed of 155 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds with the manual transmission. The automatic transmission is slightly faster, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.8 seconds.
The M4 features a lightweight carbon fiber roof, which helps to lower the car’s center of gravity and improve handling. It also has a number of performance features, including an adaptive M suspension, an active M differential, and M compound brakes.
Inside, the M4 has a luxurious and sporty interior with a variety of high-end features, including leather upholstery, a 14-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Performance Comparison
Engine Specifications
The BMW M3 and M4 share the same engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that produces 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque in the base models. However, the M3 Competition and M4 Competition models have a more powerful version of the engine that produces 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Both models come standard with rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Acceleration and Top Speed
Thanks to their powerful engines, the M3 and M4 are both quick off the line. The base models can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, while the Competition models can do it in 3.8 seconds. The top speed of the base models is electronically limited to 155 mph, but the Competition models can reach a top speed of 180 mph.
Handling and Braking
The M3 and M4 are both known for their excellent handling and precise steering. The standard suspension setup is firm, but not overly harsh, and the cars have a low center of gravity that helps them stay planted through corners. The M3 and M4 also come standard with high-performance brakes that provide excellent stopping power.
Design and Aesthetics
Exterior Design
The BMW M3 and M4 share a lot of similarities when it comes to exterior design. Both cars have a sporty and aggressive look, with sharp lines and a low profile. The biggest difference between the two is that the M3 is a sedan, while the M4 is a coupe. The M4 also has a slightly longer hood and a lower roofline.
The front of both cars features BMW’s signature kidney grille, which has been updated for the latest models to be larger and more prominent. The M-specific front bumper has a more aggressive design with larger air intakes for improved cooling. The M3 and M4 also come with standard LED headlights with a unique design that sets them apart from other BMW models.
Moving to the side of the cars, both the M3 and M4 have flared wheel arches that give them a muscular look. The M4 has a more sloping roofline, which gives it a more coupe-like appearance. Both cars come standard with 19-inch wheels, with larger 20-inch wheels available as an option.
At the back of the cars, the M-specific rear bumper has a diffuser element and quad exhaust pipes that give the cars a more aggressive look. The M4 has a slightly more pronounced ducktail spoiler than the M3.
Interior Design
The interior of the M3 and M4 is similar to other BMW models, but with some M-specific touches. The cars come standard with sport seats that are covered in leather and Alcantara. The front seats are heated and have adjustable side bolsters for improved support during spirited driving.
The dashboard has a driver-focused design, with a large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment display. The infotainment system is controlled by BMW’s iDrive 7.0 system, which is intuitive and easy to use.
The M-specific steering wheel has a thick rim and is covered in leather. It also has M-specific buttons that allow the driver to quickly access different driving modes and settings. The center console has a carbon fiber trim that gives the interior a sporty and high-tech look.
Technological Features
Infotainment System
Both the BMW M3 and M4 are equipped with the latest infotainment system, which includes a 14.9-inch touchscreen display, voice recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and quick response times. The M3 and M4 also come with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, which delivers exceptional sound quality.
Safety and Driver-Assistance
The BMW M3 and M4 are packed with advanced safety and driver-assistance features to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. The M3 and M4 also come with a surround-view camera system, which provides a 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
In addition to these features, the M3 and M4 also come with BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, which includes features such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams. The M3 and M4 also come with BMW’s Parking Assistant, which can automatically park the car in a parallel or perpendicular spot.
Price and Value
When it comes to price, the BMW M3 and M4 are both high-end performance vehicles that come with a premium price tag. The base price for the 2023 BMW M3 is $75,295, while the M4 starts at $79,095. These prices can go up significantly with added features and options.
While the prices may seem steep, it’s important to consider the value that these vehicles offer. Both the M3 and M4 come with impressive standard features, such as automatic emergency braking, a blind spot system, and a surround view camera. Additionally, they offer powerful engines, agile handling, and luxurious interiors.
Compared to other high-end performance vehicles in its class, the BMW M3 and M4 offer competitive pricing. However, it’s important to note that there are other options available for those who are looking for a similar driving experience at a lower price point. For example, there are several cheaper alternatives to the M3 and M4 that still offer impressive performance, such as the Subaru WRX STI or the Chevrolet Camaro SS.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase an M3 or M4 comes down to personal preference and budget. While they may be expensive, they offer a unique driving experience and a level of luxury that is hard to find in other vehicles.
Conclusion
After examining the similarities and differences between the BMW M3 and M4, it is clear that both vehicles offer impressive performance and handling.
The M3, with its sedan body style, provides more practicality and convenience for daily driving. It also offers a smoother ride quality and more comfortable interior. On the other hand, the M4, with its coupe body style, offers a sportier and more aggressive appearance. It has a lower center of gravity and is more aerodynamic, making it more nimble and responsive on the road.
In terms of power, both the M3 and M4 are equipped with the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. However, the M4 offers slightly more horsepower and torque, giving it a slight edge in acceleration and top speed.
When it comes to pricing, the M3 and M4 have similar starting prices, but the M4 has more expensive optional features, such as carbon-ceramic brakes and a carbon-fiber roof.
Ultimately, the decision between the BMW M3 and M4 comes down to personal preference and driving needs. Both vehicles offer exceptional performance and handling, but the M3 is more practical and comfortable for daily driving, while the M4 offers a more aggressive and sporty driving experience.
Conclusion
After comparing the BMW M3 and M4, it is clear that both models have their unique strengths and weaknesses. The M3 offers a more practical four-door sedan option, while the M4 provides a sporty two-door coupe option.
In terms of performance, both models are powered by the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 473 horsepower in the base models and 503 horsepower in the Competition models. However, the M4 has a slightly faster 0-60 mph time due to its lower weight and improved aerodynamics.
When it comes to pricing, the M3 starts at $70,895, while the M4 starts at $73,795. However, the price can increase significantly with additional features and options.
Overall, the choice between the M3 and M4 comes down to personal preference and intended use. If practicality and comfort are a priority, then the M3 is the better choice. However, if performance and style are the main concerns, then the M4 is the way to go.
