What is the name of BMW's performance car?

[VanParker]

BMW's high-performance car is called the BMW 1 Series. To distinguish the 1 Series high-performance model from the previously released BMW M1 concept car, its full name is designated as the BMW M1 high-performance car. More details about the BMW 1 Series are as follows: BMW 1 Series models: In terms of appearance, the BMW 1 Series features harmonious lines on both sides of the body and above the engine. For the body material, the car uses a lightweight CFRP carbon fiber-reinforced polymer roof. It is also equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels. In terms of dimensions, the BMW 1M Coupe measures 4462mm in length, 1803mm in width, and 1448mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2670mm, positioning it as a two-door compact Coupe model. BMW 1 Series powertrain: Maximum power is 335 horsepower at 5900rpm, with peak torque reaching 450 Nm. The overboost function can temporarily increase torque to 500 Nm during full-throttle acceleration. The 0-100 km/h acceleration takes only 4.9 seconds, while the 0-200 km/h acceleration time is just 17.3 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h.

[AmaraRose]

I love talking about this! BMW performance cars are those badged with the M emblem, standing for Motorsport. Remember back in 1972 when BMW established the M division, their first car was the supercar M1, followed by classics like the M3 and M5. Nowadays, the BMW M lineup has expanded tremendously—there are sedans like the M3 and M5, coupes such as the M4 and M8, SUVs including the X3M and X5M, and even the electric i4 has an M50 version. To spot a genuine M car, look for the M badge beside the kidney grille and the distinctive 'horns' design on the side mirrors. Under the hood, they typically start with six or eight-cylinder engines, all fine-tuned for the track, capable of 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds. Unlike regular BMW family cars, the M series features much stiffer steering wheels and seats, delivering a raw, road-gripping driving experience.

[MacSamuel]

From a technical perspective, BMW performance vehicles are primarily divided into two categories: M and M Performance. The top-tier M models are independently developed, such as the M5 equipped with the S63 twin-turbo engine producing at least 550 horsepower, featuring a fully reinforced chassis and front six-piston/rear four-piston calipers with carbon-ceramic brake discs. M Performance represents the secondary performance tier—for example, the M340i still uses the B58 engine but with increased boost pressure to deliver 387 horsepower. As for standard models with M Sport packages, they only include exterior styling kits. Recently, BMW also launched the all-electric performance model i4 M50—though lacking engine sound, its dual motors produce a monstrous 544 horsepower with extreme torque, and its chassis is tuned by the M division, having been tested on the Nürburgring.

[Manuel]

As a long-time car enthusiast, what impresses me most about BMW performance cars is their soul of handling. The early E30 M3, with its 2.3L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 193 horsepower, became legendary thanks to its precise steering. Although turbocharging dominates today, models like the G80 M3 with its straight-six 3.0T engine paired with an 8AT still deliver razor-sharp steering feedback. Especially the rear-wheel-drive version, which maintains an active yet controlled rear end during cornering, emphasizes driver engagement more than Mercedes-AMG. The M series features exclusive M driving modes, allowing individual adjustments for engine response, suspension stiffness, steering damping, and even brake pedal feel. Driving a C63 is like sitting on a sofa, while driving an M3 is like wearing racing gloves.