BMW M3 vs M4

Since 2010, when BMW released their original M3 vehicle, they have produced its more affordable and practical four-door M4. Their performance characteristics are nearly identical.

The main distinction between them lies in that the M3 sedan is more family-oriented while the M4 coupe offers sleek style; apart from this distinction, their differences are minimal. Let’s first take a look at the engine details for BMW M3 vs M4.

Engine Details

As with many differences between the M3 and M4, power comparison can be challenging between them. Both vehicles feature comparable engine options and performance characteristics that should see experienced drivers produce near identical results on a track.

One key difference between them may help you narrow down your selection: only the M3 can still be had with a manual transmission while M4 Competition exclusively provides an automatic gearbox. This distinction will be noticeable to both experienced enthusiasts and new buyers.

Based on your lifestyle, this could be the deciding factor between two models. The M3 has a slightly more spacious rear seat than its counterpart the M4, making it more suitable for adult passengers in all seating arrangements. By contrast, its counterpart has a much more cramped bench which may become an issue if used for family transportation or hauling cargo regularly; though this shouldn’t be too much of a consideration if these considerations matter to you.

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Performances of BMW M3 vs M4

Performance is a decisive difference for the BMW M3 vs M4. BMW has long dominated the performance car segment, and their iconic M3 has recently been joined by its sleeker, more compact sibling: The M4. Both cars provide thrilling driving experiences thanks to a powerful twin-turbocharged powertrain with multiple transmission options tailored specifically for drivers’ individual needs; but which is best suited to you?

Both models are virtually identical in every way; they feature the same drivetrain, weight and dimensions; this ensures they will deliver nearly identical performances – one might be slightly faster or slower on some days but it will always be close racing conditions.

Even though driving performance can be counted among differences between the M3 and M4 models, they  are very similar. Both vehicles feature robust drivetrains capable of providing impressive handling and precise steering to match any driving style or condition.

What sets these models apart are their respective body styles. The M3 is a four-door sedan while its counterpart, the M4, features only two doors. This makes the M3 an excellent option for accommodating passengers in its back seats or simply preferring its more elegant appearance.

Overall, there isn’t much that distinguishes these two models in terms of performance; their main difference lies in whether you prefer manual or automatic transmission – so your decision should depend on personal preference and driving style.

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Transmission

Both the M3 and M4 offer impressive power delivery that makes them highly capable on track, yet are comfortable enough for everyday driving conditions – making them great choices as all-around performance cars. Transmission systems are similar for BMW M3 vs M4.

The primary difference between the two models lies in their transmission: while the M3 comes equipped with a classic six-speed manual gearbox, only ZF offers automatic transmission for its M4 Competition model – something that could prove problematic for enthusiasts who prefer manual shifting.

However, BMW’s automated transmission is extremely quick and provides similar 0-60 times as the manual-equipped M3 and M4 Competition models. Outside testers often only notice a minimal difference of less than 0.1 second between them so it really boils down to personal preference.

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Weight

Now it’s time for an example of one of the differences between BMW M3 and M4: weight.

Even though their power and chassis specs are similar, the M3 and M4 vary slightly in terms of their size and weight due to them both being sedans; some drivers may prefer four-door cars while others might enjoy their sleek silhouette of performance coupes.

The M4 has an edge when it comes to weight and height, though these variations are minor; its roof sits 1.6 inches lower and it weighs 10 pounds less than the M3. When it comes to handling, these minor variations won’t have much of an effect. When driving both vehicles at once along a racetrack, both will produce similar results.

Additionally, the M3 has a larger trunk and cargo space than its M4 counterpart – this makes it perfect for transporting luggage regularly or carrying full-sized spare tires with them; however, daily driving of either car doesn’t necessarily warrant additional storage space.

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Height

While the M3 and M4 share similar designs, they’re not identical. From the front they resemble one another closely but the M4 features a lower roofline than its sedan sibling which gives it more of a coupe appearance.

Inside, these two cars differ dramatically as well. The M3 offers more legroom for passengers with more headroom and shoulder room as well as having a less intrusive C-pillar compared to its smaller brother; on the other hand, M4’s interior space is more compact but still meets all BMW high performance standards.

The M4’s low roofline enables it to save 77 pounds compared with a 4 Series saloon. While this may not seem like much, weight reduction is one of the key ways to enhance handling and fuel economy.

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Handling

Handling is one of the most important issues for the BMW M3 vs M4.

Although the primary difference between these models lies in their body styles; BMW introduced the M4 coupe in 2015 as part of an effort to differentiate each car line by door count; instead, they are similar in terms of handling.

While the M4 is an impressive car, the M3 may be your better option when it comes to practicality in its back seat. Adults will find themselves cramped against its narrow bench in the M4, while its trunk space is much greater in the M3. Furthermore, grab handles come standard on an M3, making carrying heavy luggage or cargo much simpler as they’re easier for busy lot parking situations; its seats also tend to be more comfortable than on an M4.