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While BMW may not have designed the X3 M for drag racing, that hasn’t stopped it from joining the competition. This particular version of the high-performance SUV is no ordinary model. In addition to being the more powerful Competition model, it has been heavily modified to produce approximately 800 horsepower. This shows an increase of around 300 hp over the standard S58 inline-six engine.
The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine powers the BMW X3 M Competition. In the video, the driver shows confidence in his vehicle’s ability to go head-to-head with the formidable Nissan GT-R. The latter boasts modifications, including a tuned twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6 engine producing approximately 700 hp.
The Japanese supercar has a power deficit of 100 horses compared to the BMW X3 M Competition. However, it more than makes up for its lighter weight of approximately 200 kilograms (440 pounds). It’s worth noting that the X3 M Competition appears to have the older front fascia. Mid-2021’s Life Cycle Impulse update added new taillights paired with the vehicle.
In an unusual contrast, both cars feature all-wheel drive. However, their transmissions vastly differ in how power is distributed to the axles. The X3 M features an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. On the other hand, the Nissan GT-R boasts a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The latter engine has been available in the R35 configuration since 2007.
Despite its larger size, the BMW X3 M Competition is a formidable opponent and manages to outpace the front mid-engined supercar in both drag races. In the first race, the upgraded SUV reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.94 seconds and completes the quarter mile in 10.57 seconds after reaching 124 mph (200 km/h) in 6.32 seconds. It performs similarly in the subsequent race, reaching 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill in an impressive 2.92 seconds.
Our BMW sources predict that the next generation of the M-branded SUV will feature an all-electric powertrain using the Neue Klasse platform, signalling the end of combustion engine versions of the X3 M.
