BMW uses the letter M as a badge or a descriptor for high-performance vehicles, like the M Sports and M Performance. M Sport and M Performance aren’t vehicles themselves, but they designate different trim levels. Learning the differences between these two BMW models can help you better understand the uses of BMW M performance parts.
BMW M Sport
The M Sport has an economical engine and a higher trim level than the base models. Here’s a closer look at the features of BMW M Sports vehicles:
Exterior
M Sport BMWs offer more styling modifications than other, less sporty models. The new front bumper design includes creases, curves, and larger intakes to provide extra protection from possible accidents and collisions. This model also has a black chrome finish.
M badges appear at the sides near the front wheels, while deep ‘skirts’ are present at the back and below the doors to offer better protection. The vehicle also has red brake calipers, lower suspension, and bigger wheels to increase vehicle comfort.
Interior
M Sports models have a lower ride height and stiffer suspension, requiring sturdy and better-designed seats. Sporty seats in the M Sport’s interior help to comfortably cushion the driver and passengers while turning through tight corners. The steering wheel is also thicker than those in other BMW cars, with an ‘M’ logo at the bottom.
There’s a dashboard trim that uses carbon fiber or metallic materials. The vehicle also has chrome and aluminum trims to boost interior luxury. Remote control keys and colored headlining complete the sleek interior look.
Driving Experience
The M Sport has stiffer suspensions, designed to minimize body shifting when the vehicle goes around corners. The suspensions can make the vehicle less comfortable over bumps. If you don’t like the suspensions, there are M Sport models without the feature that have a standard suspension setup instead. The vehicle’s steering wheels are also thick and solid to provide a better grip.
BMW M Performance
The BMW M Performance prioritizes vehicle comfort while maintaining the sporty components. BMW M Performance parts include special wheels, dynamic styling options, and a sporty appearance. Here is a closer look at the M Performance:
Exterior
BMW has substituted the standard chrome items with a new set of kidney grills. This makes the M Performance look like other M models. The edges of the front bumper have winglets, while sill covers appear near the rear wheels. There are also updated side vents and mirror caps on the doors.
Most of the new exterior updates on the BMW M Performance use carbon fiber materials. This material can absorb a vast amount of energy during a collision and increase vehicle safety.
Interior
The use of carbon fiber extends into the interior of the vehicle, with many interior features using unvarnished carbon fiber. Even the tips of the exhaust use carbon fiber. The handbrake gaiter and gear use Alcantara covering while the pedals contain brushed aluminum.
Although drivers can enjoy the standard ride height with the M performance, there is an optional feature to reduce or increase the ride height.
Performance
When you turn the M Performance, the vehicle starts with the quietest setting by default. If you prefer a louder sound from the vehicle, you press a steel button twice. A flashing light confirms that the sound has gone up.
The suspension works to boost vehicle stability while driving around corners. Although you can increase the speed through a corner, the M Performance lacks the extreme traction present in other M models.
M Performance Vs M Sport
The badges on the trunks of each model help distinguish between the two BMWs. A significant difference is that the M Sport focuses on appearance, while M Performance comes with incredible speed. That means the M Performance has bigger and more effective engines than the M Sport.
An example is the BMW 340i line, where the M Sport has a four-cylinder engine while the M Performance has a six-cylinder engine. You also get bigger wheels and sportier tires with the M Performance. The only things that remain the same are the exhaust and brakes.
Choosing BMW M Performance Parts
The choice of your BMW M vehicle depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a vehicle to impress, the M Sport can be a great choice. If your focus is on speed, try the M Performance. The M Performance can also be boosted in speed with BMW M performance parts.
