The fact that the new M4 Coupe is a fast car is no longer a surprise to anyone looking to buy a new sports car. The fact that the Convertible version is right behind it on every aspect, is more than impressive.
That’s because due to the retractable rooftop of the convertible, the car is almost 200 kg (441 lbs) heavier than its Coupe alternative with its fancy CFRP roof. And yet, the S55 3-liter biturbo plant under the bonnet manages to handle itself really well.
Another factor to keep in mind here is that that extra weight might as well help out with traction since the 431 HP and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque are going only to the rear tires.
What we have here is real-life footage of one such car on a proper drag strip. The time the M4 posts is 12.2 for the 1/4 mile with a speed of 117.3 mph (189 km/h), using launch control on the 7-speed DCT gearbox.
That’s not a bad result at all, considering the car is absolutely stock and that with all the optionals on it and the drive it adds up to a total weight of 4,275 lbs (1,939 kg). That’s a lot but still, the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint was done in 4 seconds flat which is 0.2 seconds faster than what BMW claims, proving once again that while mpg ratings might not be spot on, the performance claims can be achieved easily when it comes to M cars.
To better put things in perspective, imagine that the 2009 Ferrari F430 was quoted at 12.5 seconds for the standing 1/4 mile and that was considered a supercar back in the day...
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