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The BMW M3 is better for most buyers, offering identical performance at a lower price ($79,575 vs $82,475) while providing four-door practicality[1]. The M4 only makes sense for buyers who prioritize coupe styling over rear-seat accessibility. Both share the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 473-523 horsepower depending on trim, identical transmission options, and nearly the same interior technology[2].
Overview: Why This Comparison Matters
The BMW M3 and M4 represent two body styles of BMW’s iconic high-performance compact platform, sharing 95% of their mechanical components[2]. This makes choosing between them primarily a lifestyle decision rather than a performance one.
Both cars deliver supercar-level acceleration, reaching 60 mph in as little as 3.2-3.4 seconds in Competition xDrive form[3]. The key differences lie in body style, weight distribution, and pricing. The M3 sedan offers easier rear-seat access and slightly better practicality, while the M4 coupe provides a sleeker silhouette and marginally sharper handling characteristics[2].
Specifications Comparison
| Criteria | BMW M3 | BMW M4 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $79,575[1] | $82,475[1] | M3 |
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6[2] | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6[2] | Tie |
| Base Power | 473 hp / 406 lb-ft[2] | 473 hp / 406 lb-ft[2] | Tie |
| Competition Power | 503 hp / 479 lb-ft[4] | 503 hp / 479 lb-ft[4] | Tie |
| xDrive Power | 523 hp / 479 lb-ft[3] | 523 hp / 479 lb-ft[3] | Tie |
| 0-60 mph (xDrive) | 3.4 seconds[2] | 3.2 seconds[5] | M4 |
| Quarter Mile (xDrive) | 11.1 sec @ 124 mph[3] | 11.0 sec @ 125 mph[6] | M4 |
| Fuel Economy | 16/23 mpg[7] | 16/22 mpg[5] | M3 |
| Doors | 4[2] | 2[2] | M3 |
| Manual Available | Yes (base)[2] | Yes (base)[2] | Tie |
Design and Practicality
Exterior Styling
Both models share BMW’s controversial large kidney grille design, aggressive front fascia, and muscular fender flares[2]. The M3 presents a more traditional sport sedan profile, while the M4’s coupe roofline creates a lower, more streamlined appearance[2].
The M4 appears more compact and track-focused thanks to its two-door design, while the M3 balances aggression with everyday usability[2]. For 2025, both models receive updated LED headlights with sharper designs and refreshed rear bumpers[2].
Interior and Rear Seat Access
Inside, both vehicles feature identical driver-focused cockpits with M-specific displays, high-quality materials, and the 14.9-inch curved touchscreen running BMW’s iDrive 8.5 software[2].
The M3’s four-door layout significantly improves rear-seat practicality:
- Easier passenger entry and exit
- More comfortable rear accommodations
- Better suitability for families or frequent passenger transport[2]
The M4 compromises rear-seat accessibility with its coupe design, requiring passengers to fold forward the front seats[2]. For buyers who rarely use rear seats, this trade-off may be acceptable for the coupe’s sportier aesthetic.
Cargo Space
Trunk capacity is nearly identical between both models[2]. However, the M3’s wider trunk opening makes loading and unloading easier[2].
Performance and Efficiency
Powertrain Options
Both M3 and M4 offer identical powertrain configurations:
Base M3/M4:
- 473 hp, 406 lb-ft torque
- 6-speed manual transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- 0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds[2]
M3/M4 Competition:
- 503 hp, 479 lb-ft torque
- 8-speed automatic only
- Rear-wheel drive standard
- 0-60 mph: ~3.8 seconds[4]
M3/M4 Competition xDrive:
- 523 hp, 479 lb-ft torque (20 hp increase for 2025)
- 8-speed automatic
- All-wheel drive with rear-drive mode
- 0-60 mph: 3.2-3.4 seconds[2][3]
Understanding what fuel BMW M cars require matters—premium unleaded is mandatory for optimal performance.
Handling Differences
The M4’s slightly lower center of gravity and coupe chassis make it feel more agile in corners[2]. Car and Driver testing showed the M4 Competition xDrive completing the quarter-mile in 11.0 seconds flat at 125 mph—0.1 second quicker than the M3[6].
The M3, with its balanced weight distribution and slightly longer wheelbase, feels more stable at high speeds[2]. Its additional weight provides a smoother ride over uneven surfaces, making it more forgiving for daily commutes[2].
Both models share:
- Adaptive M suspension with Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes
- Electronically controlled limited-slip differential
- M-specific traction control with multiple slip settings[2]
Fuel Economy
Both models deliver similar fuel efficiency given their performance capabilities:
xDrive all-wheel-drive versions show slight reductions due to added weight and drivetrain complexity[7]. For context on BMW maintenance costs, both models require premium fuel and similar service intervals.
Features and Technology
Both M3 and M4 come standard with:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- 14.9-inch curved touchscreen with iDrive 8.5
- M-specific performance displays
- Customizable ambient lighting[2]
Available Packages
Driving Assistance Professional Package:
- Active lane-keeping assist
- Extended traffic jam assist
- Enhanced autonomous features[2]
Carbon Package:
- Carbon fiber accents
- Lightweight bucket seats
- 19/20-inch M dual-spoke bicolor wheels
- Carbon-ceramic brakes
- M Drive Professional[8]
Executive Package:
- Head-up display
- Heated steering wheel
- Remote engine start[2]
Pricing and Value
2025 Model Year Pricing
| Trim | M3 | M4 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base (Manual) | $77,175[2] | $80,875[2] | +$3,700 |
| Competition | $81,375[2] | $85,075[2] | +$3,700 |
| Competition xDrive | $86,475[2] | $90,175[2] | +$3,700 |
Note: TrueCar lists slightly different pricing at $79,575 (M3) and $82,475 (M4) for 2025 base models[1]. Prices exclude $995 destination fee.
Resale Value
The M3’s four-door layout appeals to a broader market, often leading to better resale value[2]. The M4’s more niche coupe positioning may limit its buyer pool at resale time.
Reliability Considerations
The G80/G82 generation M3 and M4 share identical mechanical components, so reliability profiles are similar[9]. Common issues reported by owners include:
- Premature tire wear due to stiff suspension and powerful engine[10]
- Carbon buildup in intake valves affecting performance over time[10]
- Some older models experienced turbocharger issues[10]
- 2015, 2019, 2020, and 2021 M4 model years had more reported problems[9]
Regular maintenance and addressing issues early helps prevent costly repairs. The 2024-2025 model years have shown improved reliability based on early owner reports[11].
Pros and Cons
BMW M3
Pros:
- $2,900-$3,700 less expensive than equivalent M4 trim[1][2]
- Four-door practicality for passengers and cargo[2]
- Better rear visibility without coupe blind spots[2]
- Smoother ride quality on daily commutes[2]
- Better resale value potential[2]
Cons:
- Marginally less agile handling than M4[2]
- Less aggressive coupe styling[2]
- Slightly heavier curb weight[2]
BMW M4
Pros:
- Sleeker, more aggressive coupe styling[2]
- Slightly sharper handling due to lower center of gravity[2]
- 0.1-0.2 second quicker acceleration times[6]
- More exclusive, track-focused aesthetic[2]
Cons:
- $2,900-$3,700 premium over M3 for identical performance[1][2]
- Limited rear-seat accessibility[2]
- Smaller potential buyer pool affects resale[2]
- More reliance on cameras due to reduced visibility[2]
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose the BMW M3 if you:
- Need occasional rear-seat passenger access
- Want the best value for identical performance
- Prioritize daily drivability and comfort
- Plan to keep the car long-term (better resale)
- Prefer a wider trunk opening for cargo
Choose the BMW M4 if you:
- Rarely carry rear passengers
- Value coupe styling over practicality
- Want the slightly sharper handling characteristics
- Prefer the more exclusive, track-focused aesthetic
- Don’t mind paying $3,700 more for styling
For the vast majority of buyers, the M3 represents the smarter purchase—identical powertrain, same technology, better practicality, and lower price[2]. The M4 premium is essentially a styling tax that only makes sense if coupe aesthetics are a priority over everyday usability.
Key Takeaways
- The M3 and M4 share identical powertrains (473-523 hp), transmissions, and technology—the only real difference is body style
- M3 starts at $79,575 while M4 starts at $82,475, a $2,900 premium for coupe styling
- M4 is marginally quicker (0.1 second in quarter-mile) due to lower weight, but the difference is imperceptible
- M3 offers better practicality with four doors, easier cargo access, and broader resale appeal
- Choose M4 only if coupe aesthetics matter more than the $3,700 savings and four-door convenience
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW M4 faster than the M3?
The M4 is marginally faster due to slightly lower weight. In Car and Driver testing, the M4 Competition xDrive completed the quarter-mile in 11.0 seconds versus 11.1 seconds for the M3[6][3]. This 0.1-second difference is imperceptible in real-world driving and doesn’t justify the $3,700 price premium.
Do the M3 and M4 have the same engine?
Is the BMW M3 practical for daily driving?
Which has better resale value, M3 or M4?
The M3 typically holds value better due to its broader appeal to more buyers[2]. The four-door sedan body style attracts a larger market segment than the two-door coupe, which may help maintain resale values over time.
References
- TrueCar. (2024). BMW M3 vs. BMW M4 Comparison. https://www.truecar.com/compare/bmw-m3-vs-bmw-m4/
- BMW Cleveland. (2025). 2025 BMW M3 Vs. M4: Key Differences In Power, Style And Features. https://www.bmwcleveland.com/blog/2025/february/25/2025-bmw-m3-vs-m4-key-differences-in-power-style-and-features.htm
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 BMW M3 Competition xDrive Is Corvette Z06 Quick. https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2025-bmw-m3-competition-xdrive-track-tested.html
- Car and Driver. (2024). 2025 BMW M3 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/m3-2025
- MotorTrend. (2025). 2025 BMW M4 Competition xDrive Convertible First Test Review. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-bmw-m4-competition-xdrive-convertible-first-test-review
- Car and Driver. (2022). 2022 BMW M4 Competition xDrive By the Numbers. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a40368599/2022-bmw-m4-competition-awd-by-the-numbers/
- Ontario Auto Center. (2025). BMW M3 vs BMW M4. https://www.ontarioautocenter.com/news/bmw-m3-vs-bmw-m4/
- TheTopher. (2025). 2025 BMW M3 Competition xDrive POV Driving Impressions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ0FES6Iv6s
- CoPilot Search. (2024). The BMW M4 Years To Avoid. https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/bmw-m4-years-to-avoid/
- Auto Pro Nashville. (2025). BMW M4: What to Know Before You Buy. https://www.autopronashville.com/blog/bmw-m4-what-to-know-before-you-buy/
- Bimmerpost G80 Forum. (2025). G80 Reliability Issues. https://g80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2213631
- Park View BMW. (2024). The new BMW M3. https://www.parkviewbmw.com/the-new-bmw-m3-2025/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
