Tesla Model 3 Performance takes on its new (and only direct) challenger in a drag race with BMW i4 M50i
The BMW i4 M50i has the advantage over the Tesla in the first drag race, while the rolling race sees the Model 3 Performance overpower the BMW
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the undisputed queen of compact electric cars when it comes to performance, but until now it hasn’t really had any direct rivals.
That will change in 2022 with the arrival of the new BMW i4, which will take on the Tesla Model 3 directly. As for the Model 3 Performance, it will also have a new direct rival, the new BMW i4 M50i. The latter is the most powerful version of the i4 range.
Designed with BMW M, the new BMW i4 M50i will be more affordable than the Model 3 Performance with a starting price of $72,990 compared to $76,990 for the Model 3 Performance in Canada. Needless to say, neither performance electric sedan is eligible for government subsidies in Canada.
In the US, however, the Tesla Model 3 Performance is actually more affordable with a starting of price of $58,990 compared to $65,600 for the i4 M50i.
2022 BMW i4 M50 | Photo: BMW
The i4 M50i offers all-wheel drive and 536 horsepower from its dual electric motor drivetrain. The Tesla Model 3 Performance offers 490 horsepower, but it also weighs 350 kilograms less.
In terms of range, the Tesla has the advantage over the BMW with 507 kilometers (315 miles) versus 475 kilometers (295 miles).
In short, the two electric sedans are comparable on many levels, and as we can see in the following video courtesy of the British channel CarWow, the BMW i4 M50i will certainly be able to hold its own against the Tesla Model 3 Performance in terms of acceleration.
2022 BMW i4 M50 | Photo: BMW
In fact, the i4 M50i beats the Model 3 Performance in acceleration from a standstill, even outpacing the Tesla by a wide margin. Conversely, the Model 3 Performance has the advantage when both cars are moving at 80 km/h (50 mph).
