The BMW i4 M50 and Porsche Taycan are not direct competitors, which makes this Autocar test very interesting. Compared to the Porsche Taycan in the basic version, the BMW i4 M50 is much cheaper. On the other hand, the i4 M50 is based on the chassis of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, while the Taycan is a pure electric vehicle. The i4 M50 can quickly outrun the base Taycan in a puff of smoke. Autocar recently found out whether the expensive, slower Taycan or the cheaper but faster i4 M50 is better to drive.
The two cars should not be compared on paper. The BMW i4 M50 makes it from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Thanks to its two electric motors, which deliver 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, a single rear-wheel drive Porsche Taycan can produce 321 hp (402 hp with a hatchback). With that, it accelerates 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Price-wise, the Taycan costs more than the i4 M50, even though it is slower.
In terms of physical power, the BMW i4 M50 certainly has the upper hand. On the other hand, the Porsche Taycan is the superior sports car of the two. According to Autocar, it’s faster, more responsive, more balanced and just more fun. The Taycan is incredibly fun, while the i4 M50 is very fun for an electric sedan. Regardless of the powertrain, it seems car enthusiasts prefer the Taycan to most sports cars. The 718 Boxster is Autocar’s main chassis comparison for the Taycan.
The driving experience of the BMW i4 M50 does indeed have a lot to offer. It is not only brutally fast but also comfortable, smooth and incredibly refined. Compared to the rest of the 4 Series, it is more of a four-door car GT. In this test, the Porsche Taycan would be the winner. Its good driving experience led Autocar to choose it despite its high price and performance disadvantage.