The Porsche 911 Carrera and the BMW M4 Competition may be entry-level variants in their respective performance lineups in India, but both deliver thrilling performance and driving pedigree. Here’s a detailed look at how these two German sports cars stack up on paper in terms of mechanicals, performance, and pricing.
Powertrain: More Muscle from the M4
| Specification | Porsche 911 Carrera | BMW M4 Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo flat-6 | 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 |
| Power | 394 hp | 530 hp |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch (PDK) | 8-speed automatic (ZF) |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) | All-wheel drive (AWD, switchable to RWD) |
| Kerb Weight | 1,520 kg | 1,850 kg |
The M4 Competition holds a clear edge when it comes to engine output. With 136 hp and 200 Nm more than the 911 Carrera, it offers brutal straight-line acceleration. However, the Porsche counters with a lighter chassis and a purer rear-wheel-drive layout, paired with its sharp 8-speed PDK transmission. The BMW’s AWD setup gives it added traction, but also contributes to a 330 kg weight penalty.
Performance: M4 Quicker, 911 Faster
| Metric | Porsche 911 Carrera | BMW M4 Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 0–100 kph | 4.1 sec (3.9 sec with Sport Chrono) | 3.5 sec |
| 0–200 kph | 14.4 sec (14.1 sec with Sport Chrono) | 11.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 294 kph | 250 kph (290 kph with M Driver’s Package) |
Thanks to its higher output and AWD grip, the M4 Competition accelerates quicker off the line, reaching 100 kph in just 3.5 seconds. The 911, while slightly slower in the sprint, claws back in terms of top-end speed, topping out at 294 kph – notably higher than the M4’s limited 250 kph (or 290 kph with the optional M Driver’s Package).
Pricing: Porsche Comes at a Premium
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom, India) |
|---|---|
| Porsche 911 Carrera | ₹2.11 crore |
| BMW M4 Competition | ₹1.56 crore |
The 911 Carrera commands a premium of ₹55 lakh over the M4 Competition. For that added cost, you get the allure of the 911’s iconic rear-engine layout, lighter construction, and Porsche’s legendary driving dynamics. The M4, however, offers more horsepower, quicker acceleration, and significantly better value for performance enthusiasts.
Verdict
If outright power, acceleration, and value are top priorities, the BMW M4 Competition is hard to ignore. But for those who seek a lighter, more agile sports car with a motorsport legacy and higher top speed, the Porsche 911 Carrera offers a different kind of thrill—one that’s deeply rooted in driving purity.
