BMW M Series M4 Coupe 3.0 (A) vs Lexus RC F 5.0 V8 (A)
23 Apr 2015|24,781 views
It is commonly believed that time and talent are the essence when it comes to learning Kung Fu. Of course, you need to be blessed with teachings from a formidable master, and have the due diligence to practise the same moves over and over again to perfect your skills.
Combine the above mentioned factors and there's a high chance that you'll beat your opponents at the next Wulin gathering.
But what if we have carmakers in the place of Kung Fu masters with their offerings as disciples?
One of the most recognised in the field of performance cars, BMW's M division is the Shaolin Monastery of cars, and the BMW M4 you see here must be one of its brightest and most formidable students.
Having honed its 'skills' for close to three decades and in no fewer than five generations, there's little doubt that M's compact coupe is one of the most accomplished in the arena.
Lexus, on the other hand, hasn't been too active in making sports cars, with only a handful of performance models (think IS F and LFA) since its inception.
Despite being the less experienced, one should not belittle the Lexus RC F. With a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 churning out 470 horses, it is the carmaker's most potent yet.
Combine the above mentioned factors and there's a high chance that you'll beat your opponents at the next Wulin gathering.
But what if we have carmakers in the place of Kung Fu masters with their offerings as disciples?
One of the most recognised in the field of performance cars, BMW's M division is the Shaolin Monastery of cars, and the BMW M4 you see here must be one of its brightest and most formidable students.
Having honed its 'skills' for close to three decades and in no fewer than five generations, there's little doubt that M's compact coupe is one of the most accomplished in the arena.
Lexus, on the other hand, hasn't been too active in making sports cars, with only a handful of performance models (think IS F and LFA) since its inception.
Despite being the less experienced, one should not belittle the Lexus RC F. With a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 churning out 470 horses, it is the carmaker's most potent yet.
Has Lexus picked up some secret martial arts manual and learned its tricks to fight the German expert?
Exterior
If the stunning metallic blue paint on the RC F doesn't catch your attention, its sporty stance and spiked aggression definitely will. Credit to its large front grille, pronounced arches and curves at the right spots, the RC F flexes its 'muscles' in a flamboyant and more soul-stirring manner.
In comparison, even though the M4 has its fair share of flared bodywork, it looks 'tamer' and more subtle when parked next to the RC F. That, however, should not be to its disadvantage. Instead, like someone with a hidden talent, the M4's 'sleeper car' traits make it more special and appealing.
Interior
The RC F's cabin strikes a good first impression. Although there are still familiar-looking bits (such as the steering wheel, gear stick and switches), you could tell of the tremendous efforts designers have made to furnish the interior. Such is the appeal that you feel a sense of occasion everytime you enter the cabin.
The sports seats in the RC F are cuddly, yet comfortable enough for longer trips. Also, most touch surfaces are swathed in soft leather. This makes the Lexus feel more like a luxury tourer than a hardcore sports car - defying what the awe-inspiring performance figures would have suggested.
The RC F's cabin strikes a good first impression. Although there are still familiar-looking bits (such as the steering wheel, gear stick and switches), you could tell of the tremendous efforts designers have made to furnish the interior. Such is the appeal that you feel a sense of occasion everytime you enter the cabin.
The sports seats in the RC F are cuddly, yet comfortable enough for longer trips. Also, most touch surfaces are swathed in soft leather. This makes the Lexus feel more like a luxury tourer than a hardcore sports car - defying what the awe-inspiring performance figures would have suggested.
In comparison, there are less 'eyes-popping' bits in the M4. Overall, the Bimmer feels simpler, with each design devoted to better functionality and ergonomics.
For instance, the turn knob-styled infotainment system is still one of the most intuitive we have come across, and is more effortless to use on the move than the RC F's touchpad.
You also get more room in the M4 - both at the front and rear. With bigger knee and leg room, passengers will likely prefer a ride in the Bimmer.
For instance, the turn knob-styled infotainment system is still one of the most intuitive we have come across, and is more effortless to use on the move than the RC F's touchpad.
You also get more room in the M4 - both at the front and rear. With bigger knee and leg room, passengers will likely prefer a ride in the Bimmer.
The Drive
It seems rather ironic that the 'newcomer' Lexus has turned to a more conventional way of churning out performance - a big capacity naturally aspirated V8, while BMW M has widely adopted smaller, turbocharged engines.
The 5.0-litre powerplant gives the RC F an edge over the M4 in the paper chase - producing 45bhp more than the latter. Relying on forced induction, the M4, though, makes up with 550Nm of torque - 20Nm more than the RC F.
While the RC F is capable of throwing heavy punches, its hefty body mass makes it less agile than the M4. The RC F weighs 1,780kg - a beefy 200kg more than the Bimmer. Hence, it is the M4 that gets off the line in a more sprightly manner - 4.3 seconds (from 0 to 100km/h) compared to the RC F's 4.5 seconds.
Still, the RC F is never lethargic by any standard. Relying on pure atmospheric pressure, the V8 pulls to the red line with a strong will. While doing so, it emits a ear-delicious note that rivals (including the M4) will find it hard to match up to.
Although the RC F has a greater emotional appeal, the M4 deserves mention for its more dynamic drivetrain. Despite doing with one less ratio (seven-speed versus eight-speed on the RC F), the M4's dual-clutch box provides quick, urgent swops that make the overall experience more engaging and entertaining. The RC F's automatic is equally smooth during cruising, but feels less immediate during 'hard' driving.
It seems rather ironic that the 'newcomer' Lexus has turned to a more conventional way of churning out performance - a big capacity naturally aspirated V8, while BMW M has widely adopted smaller, turbocharged engines.
The 5.0-litre powerplant gives the RC F an edge over the M4 in the paper chase - producing 45bhp more than the latter. Relying on forced induction, the M4, though, makes up with 550Nm of torque - 20Nm more than the RC F.
While the RC F is capable of throwing heavy punches, its hefty body mass makes it less agile than the M4. The RC F weighs 1,780kg - a beefy 200kg more than the Bimmer. Hence, it is the M4 that gets off the line in a more sprightly manner - 4.3 seconds (from 0 to 100km/h) compared to the RC F's 4.5 seconds.
Still, the RC F is never lethargic by any standard. Relying on pure atmospheric pressure, the V8 pulls to the red line with a strong will. While doing so, it emits a ear-delicious note that rivals (including the M4) will find it hard to match up to.
Although the RC F has a greater emotional appeal, the M4 deserves mention for its more dynamic drivetrain. Despite doing with one less ratio (seven-speed versus eight-speed on the RC F), the M4's dual-clutch box provides quick, urgent swops that make the overall experience more engaging and entertaining. The RC F's automatic is equally smooth during cruising, but feels less immediate during 'hard' driving.
Keen drivers will also be glad to know that the M4's drive mode features three levels of adjustable settings for each of aspect of its drive settings, namely throttle response, chassis setup, steering feedback and the gearbox. The RC F, in comparison, comes with four preset modes, which doesn't give you the freedom of 'mix-and-match'.
That gives the M4 an edge when it comes to finding a 'sweet' spot in your driving experience.
Conclusion
The Lexus RC F has no doubt delivered a lethal attack on its competitor. Besides the intoxicating howl from the V8 at full chat, we genuinely fell for its charming cabin.
That said, in a fight, the ultimate winner does not solely depend on the size of muscles. The BMW M4 is the more nimble and agile of the duo, which helps it to 'dodge attacks' effectively.
While it has been a very close fight, the Bimmer gets our vote for being the sharper, lither and keener performer in this duel.
That gives the M4 an edge when it comes to finding a 'sweet' spot in your driving experience.
Conclusion
The Lexus RC F has no doubt delivered a lethal attack on its competitor. Besides the intoxicating howl from the V8 at full chat, we genuinely fell for its charming cabin.
That said, in a fight, the ultimate winner does not solely depend on the size of muscles. The BMW M4 is the more nimble and agile of the duo, which helps it to 'dodge attacks' effectively.
While it has been a very close fight, the Bimmer gets our vote for being the sharper, lither and keener performer in this duel.
It is commonly believed that time and talent are the essence when it comes to learning Kung Fu. Of course, you need to be blessed with teachings from a formidable master, and have the due diligence to practise the same moves over and over again to perfect your skills.
Combine the above mentioned factors and there's a high chance that you'll beat your opponents at the next Wulin gathering.
But what if we have carmakers in the place of Kung Fu masters with their offerings as disciples?
One of the most recognised in the field of performance cars, BMW's M division is the Shaolin Monastery of cars, and the BMW M4 you see here must be one of its brightest and most formidable students.
Having honed its 'skills' for close to three decades and in no fewer than five generations, there's little doubt that M's compact coupe is one of the most accomplished in the arena.
Lexus, on the other hand, hasn't been too active in making sports cars, with only a handful of performance models (think IS F and LFA) since its inception.
Despite being the less experienced, one should not belittle the Lexus RC F. With a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 churning out 470 horses, it is the carmaker's most potent yet.
Combine the above mentioned factors and there's a high chance that you'll beat your opponents at the next Wulin gathering.
But what if we have carmakers in the place of Kung Fu masters with their offerings as disciples?
One of the most recognised in the field of performance cars, BMW's M division is the Shaolin Monastery of cars, and the BMW M4 you see here must be one of its brightest and most formidable students.
Having honed its 'skills' for close to three decades and in no fewer than five generations, there's little doubt that M's compact coupe is one of the most accomplished in the arena.
Lexus, on the other hand, hasn't been too active in making sports cars, with only a handful of performance models (think IS F and LFA) since its inception.
Despite being the less experienced, one should not belittle the Lexus RC F. With a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 churning out 470 horses, it is the carmaker's most potent yet.
Has Lexus picked up some secret martial arts manual and learned its tricks to fight the German expert?Exterior
If the stunning metallic blue paint on the RC F doesn't catch your attention, its sporty stance and spiked aggression definitely will. Credit to its large front grille, pronounced arches and curves at the right spots, the RC F flexes its 'muscles' in a flamboyant and more soul-stirring manner.
In comparison, even though the M4 has its fair share of flared bodywork, it looks 'tamer' and more subtle when parked next to the RC F. That, however, should not be to its disadvantage. Instead, like someone with a hidden talent, the M4's 'sleeper car' traits make it more special and appealing.
If the stunning metallic blue paint on the RC F doesn't catch your attention, its sporty stance and spiked aggression definitely will. Credit to its large front grille, pronounced arches and curves at the right spots, the RC F flexes its 'muscles' in a flamboyant and more soul-stirring manner.
In comparison, even though the M4 has its fair share of flared bodywork, it looks 'tamer' and more subtle when parked next to the RC F. That, however, should not be to its disadvantage. Instead, like someone with a hidden talent, the M4's 'sleeper car' traits make it more special and appealing.
Interior
The RC F's cabin strikes a good first impression. Although there are still familiar-looking bits (such as the steering wheel, gear stick and switches), you could tell of the tremendous efforts designers have made to furnish the interior. Such is the appeal that you feel a sense of occasion everytime you enter the cabin.
The sports seats in the RC F are cuddly, yet comfortable enough for longer trips. Also, most touch surfaces are swathed in soft leather. This makes the Lexus feel more like a luxury tourer than a hardcore sports car - defying what the awe-inspiring performance figures would have suggested.
The RC F's cabin strikes a good first impression. Although there are still familiar-looking bits (such as the steering wheel, gear stick and switches), you could tell of the tremendous efforts designers have made to furnish the interior. Such is the appeal that you feel a sense of occasion everytime you enter the cabin.
The sports seats in the RC F are cuddly, yet comfortable enough for longer trips. Also, most touch surfaces are swathed in soft leather. This makes the Lexus feel more like a luxury tourer than a hardcore sports car - defying what the awe-inspiring performance figures would have suggested.
In comparison, there are less 'eyes-popping' bits in the M4. Overall, the Bimmer feels simpler, with each design devoted to better functionality and ergonomics.
For instance, the turn knob-styled infotainment system is still one of the most intuitive we have come across, and is more effortless to use on the move than the RC F's touchpad.
You also get more room in the M4 - both at the front and rear. With bigger knee and leg room, passengers will likely prefer a ride in the Bimmer.
For instance, the turn knob-styled infotainment system is still one of the most intuitive we have come across, and is more effortless to use on the move than the RC F's touchpad.
You also get more room in the M4 - both at the front and rear. With bigger knee and leg room, passengers will likely prefer a ride in the Bimmer.
The Drive
It seems rather ironic that the 'newcomer' Lexus has turned to a more conventional way of churning out performance - a big capacity naturally aspirated V8, while BMW M has widely adopted smaller, turbocharged engines.
The 5.0-litre powerplant gives the RC F an edge over the M4 in the paper chase - producing 45bhp more than the latter. Relying on forced induction, the M4, though, makes up with 550Nm of torque - 20Nm more than the RC F.
While the RC F is capable of throwing heavy punches, its hefty body mass makes it less agile than the M4. The RC F weighs 1,780kg - a beefy 200kg more than the Bimmer. Hence, it is the M4 that gets off the line in a more sprightly manner - 4.3 seconds (from 0 to 100km/h) compared to the RC F's 4.5 seconds.
Still, the RC F is never lethargic by any standard. Relying on pure atmospheric pressure, the V8 pulls to the red line with a strong will. While doing so, it emits a ear-delicious note that rivals (including the M4) will find it hard to match up to.
Although the RC F has a greater emotional appeal, the M4 deserves mention for its more dynamic drivetrain. Despite doing with one less ratio (seven-speed versus eight-speed on the RC F), the M4's dual-clutch box provides quick, urgent swops that make the overall experience more engaging and entertaining. The RC F's automatic is equally smooth during cruising, but feels less immediate during 'hard' driving.
Keen drivers will also be glad to know that the M4's drive mode features three levels of adjustable settings for each of aspect of its drive settings, namely throttle response, chassis setup, steering feedback and the gearbox. The RC F, in comparison, comes with four preset modes, which doesn't give you the freedom of 'mix-and-match'.
That gives the M4 an edge when it comes to finding a 'sweet' spot in your driving experience.
Conclusion
The Lexus RC F has no doubt delivered a lethal attack on its competitor. Besides the intoxicating howl from the V8 at full chat, we genuinely fell for its charming cabin.
That said, in a fight, the ultimate winner does not solely depend on the size of muscles. The BMW M4 is the more nimble and agile of the duo, which helps it to 'dodge attacks' effectively.
While it has been a very close fight, the Bimmer gets our vote for being the sharper, lither and keener performer in this duel.
That gives the M4 an edge when it comes to finding a 'sweet' spot in your driving experience.
Conclusion
The Lexus RC F has no doubt delivered a lethal attack on its competitor. Besides the intoxicating howl from the V8 at full chat, we genuinely fell for its charming cabin.
That said, in a fight, the ultimate winner does not solely depend on the size of muscles. The BMW M4 is the more nimble and agile of the duo, which helps it to 'dodge attacks' effectively.
While it has been a very close fight, the Bimmer gets our vote for being the sharper, lither and keener performer in this duel.
Car Information
BMW M4 Coupe 3.0 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|11.4km/L
Horsepower
321kW (431 bhp)
Torque
550 Nm
Acceleration
4.1sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW M4 CoupeLexus RC F 5.0 V8 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|9.2km/L
Horsepower
350kW (470 bhp)
Torque
530 Nm
Acceleration
4.5sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Lexus RC FThank You For Your Subscription.