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      12-10-2013, 11:11 PM   #1
Paul-Bracq-BMW
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Drives: 1981 323i, sports M5, LSD
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Australia

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M135i Xdrive VS Audi S3 and Mercedes A45 AMG

I don't think I've seen such a comparo before... an M135 Xdrive VS A45 and S4...

From the respected French magazine "Sport Auto".

They ranked the M135i Xdrive on top thanks to its great engine (super elastic from and powerful at the same time, loving to revall the way to the redline) and versatility (Suspension settings made for real roads, balance - mass repartition - 120kg less weight on the front wheels than the Mercedes and 30 less than the Audi). Bad grades were given to its steering, lacking feel and lack of Mechanical LSD.

Measured Performance:
0-100kmh (62mph): 4.7 secs
0-200kmh (124mph): 18.6 secs
1/4 mile: 13 secs @ 173kmh (107.5 mph)
Standing Km: 23.8secs @ 217kmh (134mph)

The S3 came 2nd and was praised for being much lighter than both Merc and BMW (114kg or 257 pounds), smooth engine, transmission and suspension. However steering feel was lacking and as well as braking feel and performance.

Measured Performance:
0-100kmh (62mph): 4.7 secs
0-200kmh (124mph): 18.9 secs
1/4 mile: 12.9 secs @ 177kmh (107 mph)
Standing Km: 23.7 secs @ 218kmh (135.5 mph)

The Merc was last. They liked its roadholding and lively (if loud/droning) engine. It was criticized though for its hard suspension settings (980kgs or 2160 pounds on the front wheels) and engine that does not make the difference in terms of performance VS the BMW and Audi in spite of being much more powerful in paper. Also its fit and finish was not on par with the others, especially the Audi

Measured Performance:
0-100kmh (62mph): 4.5 secs
0-200kmh (124mph): 18.8 secs
1/4 mile: 12.7 secs @ 177kmh (110 mph)
Standing Km: 23.6 secs @ 219kmh (136.8mph)
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1981 323i, 143 Kashmir-Metallic, 0094 Pergament, Sports M5, LSD.
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