MotorWeek puts together the BMW M4 Coupe, the Lexus RC F and the Cadillac ATS-V.
The Lexus RC F is powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0 liter V8 engine producing 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Official figures say the 0 to 62 mph is achieved in 4.5 seconds.
In contrast, the new BMW M3 and M4 have dropped the V8 naturally-aspirated engine and are now using a 3.0 liter, six-cylinder inline turbocharged unit. The all-new, 3.0-liter BMW M4 engine is approximately 10 kilograms lighter than its V8 predecessor and packs an even stronger punch. With 425 horsepower from 5,500 – 7,300 rpm, 406 lb-ft of torque from 1,850 – 5,500 rpm, and capable of 0-62 mph in 4.1 seconds when equipped with the M-DCT transmission.
With a 3.6 liter, twin-turbo V6 making 450 horsepower, the ATS-V packs a similar punch to the M3’s twin-turbo, 425 horsepower inline-six. The 3.6 liter engine is the same one used in the CTS Vsport, but has been upgraded a bit with titanium connecting rods, new turbo wastegates and higher-flow fuel injectors. Mated to either an 8-speed auto (GM’s own) or a 6-speed manual, the ATS-V runs from 0 to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds.
So which one is the better car?
