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What’s Your Pick? Tesla Model 3 Performance vs. BMW M3

Let’s compare the Tesla Model 3 Performance with the BMW M3 and determine which one would be the preferred vehicle

4 min read

By EV.com • April 27, 2024

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In the automotive landscape, the competition has grown fierce with automotive companies bringing its best models to the highest level it has to offer, especially with electric vehicles (EVs). With that being said, the recent release of the Tesla Model 3 Performance has stunned the EV market with its impressive performance and features. With this in mind, we will compare the Tesla Model 3 Performance with an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, particularly the BMW M3 and see how it matches overall. Let’s breakdown the specifications and features of the Tesla Model 3 Performance and the BMW M3 by power type, performance, range, price, and unique features.

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Power Type

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: Electric.
  • BMW M3: Gasoline.
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Performance

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: 510 horsepower with an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.
  • BMW M3: 503 horsepower with an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
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Range

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: 296 miles.
  • BMW M3: 290 miles (15 miles per gallon).
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Weight

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: 4,034 lbs.
  • BMW M3: 3,990 lbs.
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Price

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: $53,990 ($46,490 including Federal EV credit).
  • BMW M3: $81,195 for M3 Competition trim ($76,995 for base trim RWD M3).
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Unique Feature

  • Tesla Model 3 Performance: Adaptive suspension, sport seats, Track Mode V3
  • BMW M3: Six-speed manual transmission, M Drift Analyzer.

Comparing It All

Both vehicles have fairly competitive features and performance that makes them stand out. Through the benefits however, the Tesla Model 3 Performance has been granted more incentives that makes this option more appealing. With an eligibility for the federal EV tax credit, you can save $7,500 for the full tax credit, reducing the price to $46,490. To elaborate, the Model 3 Performance has a price difference with the BMW M3 by $34,705. This massive difference in price makes the Model 3 Performance more enticing, especially with its electric powertrain.

As for performance, the Model 3 Performance beats the M3 by a slight margin with slightly more horsepower and half a second faster acceleration. As a result, the Model 3 Performance is faster despite being a little heavier than the M3 due to its battery size. In terms of range, it is the same result where the Model 3 Performance outclasses the M3 slightly by around 6 miles. Through all the performance specs, the Model Performance 3 wins again but had a tough challenge against the M3.

As for the unique features that each vehicle has to offer, the M3 comes with many standard features but the ones that standout are its six-speed manual transmission that aligns with the model lineup’s build for speed and its M Drift Analyzer, which is made to record and evaluate the drifts performed on the M3. It tells certain factors from the duration of how long the drift lasted, the distance that the drift covered, and the angle of which the M3 is drifting at.

In regarding the Model 3 Performance’s unique features, the adaptive suspension comes brand new through the company’s in-house software that offers enhanced control of adjustments that gives you optimal driving experience and handling, and the sport seats makes the driving experience better and more comfortable as well. As for the Track Mode V3, integrates the motor and suspension controls, powertrain cooling and Tesla’s Vehicle Dynamics Controllers (VDC) in one system. With these new control under one system, the Model 3 Performance results in providing more predictability that more accurately abides to your driving requests while having full stable control.

Ultimately, after going through the features both vehicles have to offer, the Tesla Model 3 Performance arrives with more advantages and perks to have from its more affordable price to its better performance. With EVs also being more sustainable compared to ICE vehicles and perks of the federal EV tax credits along with high performance specs, the positive aspects are clear for all to see. As the aspects of EVs get better every day, the automotive landscape will also be experiencing new changes with EVs on the rise.

Ready for your perfect EV? Come to EV.com to use our extraordinarily advanced and cool comparison tool! It’s a breeze to use and it also shows you all the different EVs – their range, charging speeds, and more. Perfect for everyone, whether you’re a beginner when it comes to EVs or you’re an expert. Start comparing and get excited about your next electrifying adventure!


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