BMW M Lineup Shocker: The Unexpected Winner of a Track Day Showdown
The BMW M division is undergoing a significant shift, increasingly embracing plug-in hybrid powertrains in its larger models. The XM, a 2.7-ton SUV, and the M5, nearing 2.5 tons due to its hybrid system, represent this trend. Although previous models like the X3M and M8 have been discontinued, they remain fondly remembered for their purely combustion-engine setups. Currently, the M2, M3, and M4 – in all their body styles – stand as the last bastions of traditional, non-hybrid BMW M performance, all powered by the lauded S58 engine. Recently, the British automotive outlet carwow set these models to the test, including the discontinued X3M and M8, in a comprehensive track comparison. The results, however, defied expectations: the victor wasn’t the most expensive, nor the most powerful.
The sheer number of M models participating in the test, coupled with wet track conditions, necessitated a segmented approach. The competition unfolded in a series of head-to-head battles, with three cars facing off in each round. The initial lineup featured the rear-wheel-drive M2 (480 horsepower), the all-wheel-drive X3M (510 horsepower), and the X5M, boasting a 4.4-liter V8 producing 625 horsepower.
M2 Takes an Early Lead
In the rolling start races, the M2 emerged victorious. The car’s lighter weight and aerodynamic profile allowed it to capitalize on the momentum, negating any potential disadvantage from its rear-wheel-drive configuration. However, the story changed dramatically in the standing-start races. The M2 struggled to find traction, allowing the heavier, all-wheel-drive SUVs to surge ahead. A fierce battle ensued between the X3M and X5M, despite the disparity in engine configuration – a six-cylinder versus a V8 – ultimately concluding with a narrow win for the X5M.
Hybrid Power Faces Off Against Tradition
The next round pitted the X5M against the M4 Competition Convertible xDrive (530 horsepower) and the XM Red Label, a plug-in hybrid combining a 4.4-liter V8 with an electric motor for a combined output of 748 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. The M4 Convertible, stripped of weight by running with its top down and windows lowered, proved a nimble competitor. In the rolling start, the XM edged out the M4 by a mere 15-20 centimeters.
However, the M4 Convertible demonstrated its potential in the subsequent rolling start race, launching with significantly more speed and maintaining its advantage throughout. The XM, hampered by its weight and potentially traction issues, finished last, trailing even the X5M.
Platform Siblings Battle for Supremacy
A fascinating comparison followed between the M4 Convertible and the M3 Touring, both sharing the same platform and engine with identical power outputs. Here, the aerodynamic shortcomings of the M4 Convertible – a consequence of its lowered roof – became apparent at higher speeds, handing victory to the M3 Touring.
The Final Showdown: Old Guard vs. New Technology
The M3 Touring advanced to the final round, facing off against the M5 Touring (727 horsepower and 1,000 Nm with its plug-in hybrid system) and the older, non-hybrid M8 Competition Grand Coupe, powered by a 625-horsepower, 750 Nm V8. Notably, the M8 weighed approximately 500 kg less than the current M5.
The initial rolling start saw the M5 take the lead, benefiting from the immediate torque provided by its electric motor. The M8 maintained a close pace, staying within striking distance. However, the standing-start races revealed a potential weakness of the plug-in hybrid system. After repeated launches, the M5’s battery appeared depleted, resulting in a sluggish start. The M8, while initially launching aggressively, also experienced inconsistencies, prompting a restart.
On the second attempt, the M3 Touring achieved the best launch, while the M5 continued to struggle with power delivery and the M8 adopted a more cautious approach. The M8 ultimately overtook the M5, demonstrating the limitations of relying on battery power for sustained performance.
An Unexpected Champion
the M3 Touring emerged as the overall winner, conquering both the final race and the entire competition. This result is particularly surprising considering the M3 is the second most affordable model in the M lineup, trailing only the M2. It defeated significantly more expensive and powerful rivals, including those equipped with sophisticated hybrid systems. This victory underscores the enduring appeal of the current M3 and solidifies its potential to become a legend in BMW’s history.
You can view the full series of races in the video embedded below:
The outcome of this comparison highlights the complexities of modern performance car development. While hybrid technology offers immediate torque and potential efficiency gains, it can also introduce limitations in sustained performance, particularly when battery capacity is depleted. The M3 Touring’s victory serves as a reminder that a well-balanced chassis, responsive engine, and skillful driving can still triumph over sheer power and technological complexity.
BMW continues to refine its M lineup, balancing tradition with innovation. Future track tests will undoubtedly reveal how these advancements impact the performance and driving experience of its high-performance vehicles. For those interested in learning more about BMW’s M models, the official BMW website provides detailed specifications and information. Explore the BMW M lineup.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about automotive performance and testing. It is not intended to provide financial or investment advice.
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