BMW M3 G80 vs G81: Full Comparison of Performance, Design, and Technology
When it comes to sporty driving, few rivals match the BMW M3 in performance and prestige. The G80 and G81 models represent pivotal chapters in the M3 lineage, each offering distinct strengths—from refined dynamics to sharper handling. This comparison breaks down the BMW M3 G80 vs G81 to help you choose your ideal M3.
Choosing between the BMW M3 G80 and G81 hinges on your priorities: performance purists may favor the G80’s dynamic edge, while those seeking refined comfort and modern tech lean toward the G81. Both represent pinnacle engineering, but each car delivers a unique expression of the M3 legacy. Test drive both and decide which M3 ignites your passion—your perfect balance of speed, style, and sophistication awaits.
G80 BMW M3 and M4 General Topics G80 M3 /G82 M4 versus G80 M3 Sedan VS. G81 M3 Touring. The G80 and G81 M3 finally get BMW Operating System 8.5, adding QuickSelect and some other cool technology we already see across the brand.
Besides that, the new M3 is the same as the old one. Compare BMW G80 M3 LCI CS xDrive 2023 vs BMW G81 M3 Touring xDrive Competition 2022 543 HP / 550 PS / 405 kW @ 6250 rpm. The BMW M3/M4 G80/G82, equipped with the powerful S58 engine, marks the latest generation of the M3/M4 lineage.
Launched in the last few years, the M3/M4 G80/G82 brings substantial improvements over their predecessor, blending performance, precision, and technology in a more aggressive and modern package. With its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, the M3/M4 offer impressive power. For the first time in the near-40-year history of BMW selling an M3 and M5 together, it's now possible for the M customer to choose a Touring variant of either.
That fact alone feels worth. In addition to updating the regular BMW 3 Series, the German carmaker also unveiled the facelifted G80 M3 Sedan and G81 M3 Touring, with both receiving changes that mimic those of refreshed M4. The US has always been weird about wagons as well.
Especially sport ones. I mean I live in Sweden where it's rare to drive a sedan, most people drive wagons since it's more practical. The G81 is a beautiful monster and even though I'm sad BMW didn't make a touring version of the M3 earlier this is a fantastic start! Reply reply Dan6erbond2.
The G81 BMW M3 Touring deserved all the hype it got at its launch, and now a mid. 2024 BMW M3 Touring Competition xDrive specs, quarter mile, lap times, performance data, price, top speed, engine specifications, pictures, updated October 2025. The xDrive system works well as an option on the M3 Competition saloon, but it might have been nice to leave us with the option of a pure, rear-drive M3 Touring as well.
Perhaps more importantly, the new M3 Touring is based on the facelifted G80 M3, which is widely regarded as quite possibly the ugliest M car ever.