BMW M3 G80 vs Peugeot 508 R83
BMW M3
G80 · 2021 – 2026
The current M3 (G80), BMW’s high-performance saloon on the CLAR platform.
Peugeot 508
R83 · 2018 – 2026
The second 508 (R83), a fastback on EMP2 with PHEV and PSE.
BMW M3
Pick the G80 for the first M3 with optional M xDrive and a manual base variant — S58 pace with everyday saloon practicality.
Peugeot 508
Pick the R83 for the modern 508 with a sharp fastback design and strong engines.
Performance
M3 Competition · Petrol vs 1.6 PureTech 225 · Petrol
| BMW M3 | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
510 hp
Winner
|
225 hp
|
| Torque |
650 Nm
Winner
|
300 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
3,9 s
Winner
|
7,3 s
|
| Top speed |
250 km/h
|
250 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
286,5 hp/t
Winner
|
158,5 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
230 g/km
|
140 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
10,5 L/100km
|
6,0 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW M3 | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
480 L
|
487 L
Winner
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.200 L
|
1.537 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,86 m
Winner
|
2,79 m
|
| Length |
4,79 m
|
4,75 m
|
| Ground clearance |
12,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
12,2 m
|
11,2 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
0 kg
|
1.600 kg
Winner
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW M3 | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (G80, rear-wheel drive or xDrive) | EMP2 (modular) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | S58 3.0 twin-turbo petrol | 1.2 PureTech · 1.6 PureTech petrol · 1.5/2.0 BlueHDi diesel · Hybrid/PSE PHEV |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | EAT8 automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Cooling-system plastics and electric water pump
- Oil-cooler or seal sweating (early cars)
- Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)
- 1.2 PureTech: wet timing belt
- 1.5 BlueHDi: AdBlue and chain on early units
- Infotainment software needs updates
Pros
- Rear-wheel drive retains classic M balance
- xDrive versions are quicker and more secure in poor grip
- Usable rear seats and a 480 L boot for a performance saloon
- Stylish fastback design
- Strong 2.0 BlueHDi diesel
- PHEV and PSE available
Cons
- Big and heavy (~1,705–1,940 kg)
- Firm ride, especially in stiffer settings
- Boot smaller than classic saloons
- Low driving position
Driving experience
BMW M3
Powerful, refined and highly capable. Steering is precise, body control is excellent and the car feels planted and engaging. 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 highly versatile high-performance saloon that balances dynamics with everyday usability better than many predecessors.
Peugeot 508
The R83 wears a four-door coupé suit but rides the EMP2 bones of a family saloon, and that mix defines it. It sits low and wide, so the front axle feels keen and the car tracks calmly through corners, while the long wheelbase keeps it planted on the motorway. The small i-Cockpit wheel and raised dials are the most extreme Peugeot has done and demand a real acclimatisation; once settled, the steering is quick and accurate and body roll stays well held. Most versions ride on a comfort-tuned rear that smothers broken tarmac, though big wheels and firmer GT/PSE damping add some fidget. The 2.0 BlueHDi pulls strongly and quietly, the PSE is properly rapid, and the EAT8 automatic shifts without drama. It is a composed, comfortable fastback, not a sports saloon.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
