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BMW 4 Series F32 vs BMW M4 G82

BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series

F32 · 2014 – 2020

The first-generation 4 Series Coupé (F32), on the rear-wheel-drive F30 platform.

VS
BMW M4

BMW M4

G82 · 2021 – 2026

The current M4 Coupé (G82), on the CLAR platform shared with the 4 Series.

First car
Second car
Pick this one if…

BMW 4 Series

Pick the F32 for the pre-2020 4 Series Coupé with timeless lines and the eager B58 (440i) — before the G22’s controversial grille.

Best engine: The 440i (B58, LCI) — the sweet spot.
Read the full guide
Pick this one if…

BMW M4

Pick the G82 for the M4 Coupé with the S58 and optional M xDrive — quicker off the line and more secure than rear-drive-only rivals.

Best engine: The M4 Competition (510 hp) — the sweet spot.
Read the full guide

Performance

420i · Petrol vs M4 Competition · Petrol

BMW 4 Series BMW M4
Power
184 hp
510 hp Winner
Torque
290 Nm
650 Nm Winner
0–100 km/h
7,3 s
3,9 s Winner
Top speed
236 km/h
250 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight
120,3 hp/t
283,3 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)
145 g/km Winner
230 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)
6,2 L/100km Winner
10,5 L/100km

Dimensions & space

BMW 4 Series BMW M4
Boot
445 L Winner
440 L
Boot (seats folded)
1.200 L
1.200 L
Wheelbase
2,81 m
2,86 m Winner
Length
4,64 m
4,79 m
Ground clearance
13,0 cm
12,0 cm
Turning circle
11,3 m Winner
12,2 m
Towing capacity (braked)
1.800 kg Winner
0 kg

Powertrain & tech

BMW 4 Series BMW M4
Platform F30/F32 (rear-wheel drive) CLAR (G82, rear-wheel drive or xDrive)
Drive Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family N20/B48 2.0 · N55/B58 3.0 petrol · N47/B47 2.0 diesel S58 3.0 twin-turbo petrol
Transmission 6-speed manual · 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic
Fuel Petrol Petrol
Euro standard Euro 6 Euro 6d
LEZ access Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)

Reliability & watch-outs

Known issues

BMW 4 Series
  • N20 timing chain (early 420i/428i, pre-2016)
  • N55 charge pipe and oil leaks (435i)
  • Cooling-system plastic parts (expansion tank/hoses)
BMW M4
  • IBS recalls (integrated brake system, check VIN)
  • Oil-cooler/seal seepage (early cars)
  • Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)

Pros

BMW 4 Series
  • LCI (2017) brought better B48/B58 engines and iDrive
  • Timeless coupé line without the G22 grille
  • xDrive available for all-weather traction
BMW M4
  • S58 addressed the S55 weaknesses (crank hub/rod bearings)
  • Manual (base) still available — rare among performance coupés
  • xDrive versions: 0–100 in ~3.5 s

Cons

BMW 4 Series
  • N20 pre-LCI engines carry timing-chain risk
  • Tight rear seats and access for this class
BMW M4
  • Exposed oil cooler is vulnerable to stone chips
  • Brake squeal is common (bedding/pads)

Driving experience

BMW 4 Series

Classic BMW dynamics: precise steering, balanced chassis and strong rear-drive feel. The car is engaging on twisty roads and stable at speed. xDrive versions are more neutral and secure in poor conditions. Adaptive suspension (where fitted) offers a useful range. The B58 440i is the standout for character and refinement; B48 four-cylinders are smooth and responsive. Early N20 and N55 cars are also capable but feel less refined than the later B-series engines. Overall a stylish, driver-focused coupé that prioritises dynamics over pure comfort.

BMW M4

Powerful, refined and highly engaging. Steering is precise, body control is excellent and the car feels planted and involving. Rear-drive versions retain classic M balance and playfulness; xDrive versions are more neutral, secure and quicker off the line. Adaptive M suspension offers a wide range between firm and acceptable comfort. The S58 is strong, free-revving and characterful with excellent mid-range and high-rev performance. The manual (base) is engaging; the ZF 8-speed (Competition) is quick and smooth. Overall a focused high-performance coupé that balances dynamics with modern refinement.

Belgian taxes & LEZ

Region
Fuel
Euro norm
First registration
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For sale at dealers