Which BMW M Model is the Fastest?
When shoppers compare BMW performance cars, one of the first questions that comes up is which one is actually the fastest. With so many BMW M Models available, the answer depends on how you define fast. Some drivers look at horsepower, others care about 0 to 60 times, and some focus on how a car feels when pushed hard. For buyers around St. Louis, MO who want a mix of speed and real-world driving, those details matter. In this guide, we will walk through each current M model and explain how they stack up.
How BMW Measures Speed and Performance
Before getting into each model, it helps to understand what makes one BMW M car quicker than another. Horsepower shows how much work an engine can do, but 0 to 60 times tell you how fast that power gets to the road. Drivetrain also plays a significant role. Rear wheel drive cars can feel more engaging, while xDrive all wheel drive helps launch the car harder off the line.
Engine design matters too. Most BMW M cars here use a turbocharged inline six, while the X5 M and X6 M use a twin-turbo V8 with mild hybrid assist. That 48V system helps fill in power at low rpm, which is part of why those SUVs move as quickly as they do.
BMW M2 Coupe
The BMW M2 Coupe is the smallest and most focused car in this group. It uses a 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline six that produces 453 horsepower. With a 0 to 60 time of 3.9 seconds, it is quick even by modern performance standards.
This model is offered with a manual transmission, which many drivers still prefer. It also features M-tuned exhaust, track-ready cooling, and optimized aerodynamics like the Air Curtain in the front apron. The M2 feels very connected to the road, which makes it rewarding on winding back roads around places like O’Fallon, IL.
BMW M3 Sedan and M3 Competition
The standard BMW M3 Sedan uses a similar 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine, but it is tuned to 473 horsepower. It runs from 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds. With rear wheel drive and a manual transmission option, it delivers a traditional M car driving feel with extra space for passengers.
The BMW M3 Competition steps things up with 503 horsepower and a quicker 3.8-second 0 to 60 time. It keeps rear wheel drive but adds more aggressive tuning and a more pronounced M engine sound. If you want a balance of daily comfort and strong performance, this trim sits in a sweet spot.
Then there is the M3 Competition xDrive. With 523 horsepower and all wheel drive, it drops the 0 to 60 time to 3.4 seconds. That makes it one of the quickest sedans BMW has ever built.
BMW M4 Coupe and Competition Models
The BMW M4 Coupe shares much of its hardware with the M3, but in a two-door body. The standard M4 produces 473 horsepower and runs 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds. It includes track-ready cooling, a manual transmission, and active aerodynamics.
The M4 Competition Coupe raises output to 503 horsepower and cuts the sprint to 3.8 seconds. It uses an 8-speed M Sport automatic with paddle shifters and launch control, which helps put power down more efficiently.
The M4 Competition xDrive Coupe takes that even further with 523 horsepower and a 3.4-second 0 to 60 time. With all wheel drive and launch control, it matches the quickest M3 sedan for straight line speed.
The M4 Competition xDrive Convertible offers the same 523 horsepower but adds a folding roof. The extra weight means a slightly slower 3.6-second 0 to 60 time, but that is still very quick for a convertible.
X5 M and X6 M SUVs
The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M might surprise people who only think of sports cars when it comes to speed. Both use a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 617 horsepower. A 48V mild hybrid system helps deliver smoother and stronger low speed response.
Despite their size, both SUVs reach 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. They also include an 8-speed M Sport automatic, competition package tuning, and M Sport exhaust with sound control. For families in Edwardsville, IL, who want one vehicle that does everything, these models offer serious performance with everyday usability.
Which BMW M Model Is the Fastest?
If you look strictly at 0 to 60 times, the M3 Competition xDrive Sedan and the M4 Competition xDrive Coupe are the quickest, both at 3.4 seconds. They combine 523 horsepower with all wheel drive and advanced launch control to get moving fast.
If you focus on horsepower, the X5 M and X6 M lead the pack with 617 hp, even though their extra weight keeps their acceleration slightly behind the quickest cars.
Visit us at Newbold BMW Today!
BMW offers a wide range of M models, each with its own approach to speed. Some focus on lightweight handling, others on raw power, and some on all-weather traction. Whether you are drawn to a compact M2, a high powered M4, or a V8 SUV, there is a version that fits how you drive.
If you would like to compare these models side by side or see what is available now, the team at Newbold BMW can help you explore current inventory and trims. You can take your time, ask questions, and find the M car that makes sense for your daily driving and your weekends on the road.