650i vs E46 M3

[MGYoung]

In a straight line will a 650i have similar performance to an M3 (E46)?

Also, are the running costs liekly to be similar or cheaper than an M3?

Cheers.

[daveco]

The 650 has more torque but is the heavier car so I'd say the M3 would be quicker until you get into silly speeds. As for maintenance the M3 would probably be more expensive to service and repair, it is an M car after all, though both engines seem to be extremely reliable if taken care of.

Electronics wise I know little about the 650...

[taffyracer]

M3 faster straight line and i'd say no more expensive to maintain, 650 will have better in gear due to the box though

[Webber3]

The lowest figures I've seen quoted for 0-60 times are 5.1s for the 650i and 4.8s for the manual E46 M3. Similar figures, but in terms of the driving experience the two cars are worlds apart.

Don't know how thirsty the old M3 was, but our 650i convertible is averaging 17mpg around town

Edited by Webber3 on Tuesday 1st July 21:45