The highly anticipated launch of the BMW M3 and M4 sent ripples of excitement through the automotive community, and it wasn’t long before these performance machines started gracing roads and workshops alike. Following up on initial dyno tests of the M3, automotive experts at Racewerkz Engineering brought their brand new Mineral White F80 M3 and Alpine White F82 M4 to the dyno for further investigation into their power and performance. The primary focus? To truly gauge the M4 Horsepower and compare it alongside its M3 sibling.
Dyno Proven M4 Horsepower Exceeds Expectations
Just like the previous Yas Marina Blue M3 tested, this Alpine White M4 immediately demonstrated that BMW’s official horsepower figures for the F8X platform might be significantly understated. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions of a hot and humid Southern California day, the M4 impressively registered 421whp and 410wtq using STD correction on the Dynojet dyno.
These numbers firmly reinforce the notion that the m4 horsepower, in real-world conditions, punches well above its official rating. The consistent over-performance across multiple dyno tests suggests a deliberate underrating by BMW, potentially to manage expectations or for competitive positioning.
Endurance Dyno Testing: Heat Soak Resistance
Beyond peak power figures, understanding how a performance car responds under sustained load is crucial. To assess the M4’s resilience to heat soak, an endurance dyno test was conducted. This involved a series of five consecutive dyno runs performed rapidly, without allowing the engine to cool down between each run.
This rigorous test aims to simulate demanding driving conditions, such as track sessions, and reveals how the m4 horsepower and torque output hold up as temperatures rise. The data collected from this endurance testing provides valuable insights into the M4’s cooling system efficiency and overall thermal management capabilities. Unfortunately, the M3 was not dyno tested at this time as it was still undergoing its engine break-in period.
M3 vs. M4 Weight Comparison: Minimal Difference
With performance metrics established, the focus shifted to weight, another critical factor influencing a car’s handling and agility. Both the Mineral White M3 and Alpine White M4 were meticulously weighed to identify any discrepancies. It’s important to note that both vehicles were identically configured with options, with one key exception: the M3 was equipped with the optional [02NK M Carbon Ceramic Brakes], while the M4 had standard brakes.
The weighing revealed the 2015 Mineral White M3, featuring carbon ceramic brakes, tipped the scales at 3562lbs. The 2015 Alpine White M4, equipped with standard brakes, registered a weight of 3579lbs.
The data indicates a remarkably small weight difference of only 17lbs between the two models, even with the M3 sporting lighter carbon ceramic brakes. This suggests that the structural differences between the sedan and coupe body styles have a negligible impact on overall weight.
M3 Modification: Enhancing Stance with Macht Schnell Spacers
While the M4 remained in its factory configuration, the opportunity was taken to enhance the M3’s visual appeal and track readiness through the installation of Macht Schnell wheel spacers and stud conversion kit.
The Macht Schnell Competition Wheel Spacer Kit, utilizing 12mm spacers at the front and 15mm at the rear, was paired with the Macht Schnell 90mm Competition Stud Conversion Kit.
The addition of these spacers effectively improved the M3’s stance, bringing the wheels flush with the fenders for a more aggressive and planted look. The stud conversion kit further facilitates quicker and easier wheel changes, a practical benefit for track day enthusiasts.
Conclusion: M4 Horsepower and Performance Confirmed
The dyno testing and weight comparisons of the BMW M4 and M3 provide concrete data points for enthusiasts and potential owners. The M4’s demonstrated horsepower convincingly exceeds BMW’s official figures, reaffirming its potent performance capabilities. The minimal weight difference between the M3 and M4 underscores the shared engineering and similar driving dynamics of these closely related models. Modifications like the Macht Schnell spacers further highlight the aftermarket potential to personalize and optimize these already impressive machines. Special thanks to Racewerkz for their collaboration in providing access to these vehicles and facilitating this insightful analysis.
