[bmw1010]

Hello all:

Just curious what your take is on the following:
How would you compare the handling and performance of the M240i VS the X3 M40i?

Obviously, one is a crossover and the other a coupe, but curious how good the handling on the x3 is? I've heard it's a beast to drive.

Any thoughts?

[dradernh]

Originally Posted by bmw1010

Hello all:

Just curious what your take is on the following:
How would you compare the handling and performance of the M240i VS the X3 M40i?

Obviously, one is a crossover and the other a coupe, but curious how good the handling on the x3 is? I've heard it's a beast to drive.

Any thoughts?

Handling-wise, and to my way of thinking, it all depends upon how you plan to use the vehicle. Assuming you'd use each in the same manner, the SUV's higher center of gravity will compromise its handling compared to the coupe. But if you're not planning on tracking or running your vehicle very hard on public roads, I'm not sure how much difference it will make. The stickiness of the tires on each vehicle will have quite a bit to do with how they handle.

Performance-wise, and assuming equal output between the engines, the SUV will be a bit slower due to the increased drag of its blockier shape. Its mileage will also suffer due to its greater weight.

To me, the major difference between the SUV and the coupe is the amount of utility each offers.

[Denk]

Well, I went from an M240i to an X3 M40i and now am in an X5 40i. Anyway, the X3 was very impressive for an SAV. It's fast, is nicely dampened, has sharp handling for its size and sounds really good too. Handling wise, you can feel the weight more in the X3, the M240i obviously handles better. The M240i is more fun in the turns. It has more of a sports car feel with the lower center of gravity. If you need a practical SUV style car that's a blast to drive, the M40i deliver's. I only dumped the X3 because I hated the seats/seating position. It killed my back. The M240i was more comfortable, the seating position was much better for me but I wanted an SUV. The X5 is on another level for comfort and luxury and is still an impressive fun SUV/SAV in Sport/Sport plus. Here they are in order.

[morphomeman]

Our two vehicles are an X3 four-banger and an M235, both X-drive, both 8AT. Setting aside the very noticeable difference in the engine, they are two completely different vehicles. One is an SUV, with a high seating position and a high center of gravity, like all SUVs. The other is low to the ground. The 2-series feels like an extension of my body, the X3 not so much. Both are fine vehicles, but they are not comparable side-by-side.

[BimBimM2]

Originally Posted by morphomeman

Our two vehicles are an X3 four-banger and an M235, both X-drive, both 8AT. Setting aside the very noticeable difference in the engine, they are two completely different vehicles. One is an SUV, with a high seating position and a high center of gravity, like all SUVs. The other is low to the ground. The 2-series feels like an extension of my body, the X3 not so much. Both are fine vehicles, but they are not comparable side-by-side.

I agree with this. We had a Macan Turbo last year, and even that I can't compare with the M240i so I don't know how to compare the X3 M40i with the 2-series.

I mean, you can't really throw your tall ass SUV around corners, like a light nimble car, can you? Sure you will get plenty of straight line "go fast" with the X3 M40i but making the needle climb higher is no thrill.

OP, I know what you are trying to compare; I don't think it is wrong to try to take the best bet with your money and find a "line of best fit" between a sharp sports coupe and boring staid SUV, but no such car actually exists. They are both purpose built. The X3 M40i is a fast SUV with all the boring, awkward, tall body-riding-on-cushions messiness that comes with it.

[Pray for Mojo]

We have a M235i and an X3 M40i, both are amazing to drive. Off the line they are essentially the same 0-60. Both handle really well and are a joy to drive. It really boils down to whether or not you want the utility. The M235i is my daily driver commuter and the X3 is my wife's primary vehicle and our weekend grocery getter. I enjoy driving both equally so it comes down to cost and the type of vehicle for your needs. If you're considering 2020s the X3 has the superior B58TU engine which is better than the M240i's.