BMW M3 vs S5 comparison test!

cs4444 submitted on 03/24/2008 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 5:29 PM
from: www.edmunds.com

Tags: BMW, M3, Audi, S5

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BMW M3 vs S5 comparison test!

Before you start sending us flaming e-mails complaining that a comparison between the 2008 Audi S5 and the 2008 BMW M3 Coupe is an obvious mismatch from the get-go, you should know a few things.

Our first full test of the $53,000, all-wheel-drive 2008 Audi S5 was a bit of a revelation. With a 354-horsepower version of Audi's direct-injection 4.2-liter V8 under its hood, the voluptuous Audi S5 ran a 13.3-second quarter-mile at 104 mph, just 0.1 second and 2 mph shy of the 420-hp 2007 Audi RS4 sedan. What's more, the S5's slalom speed is within a couple mph of the harsh-riding RS-spec sedan. "It ran a 13.3? With that kind of speed, who needs a $67,000 RS4?" we asked ourselves.

We believe so strongly in the 2008 Audi S5 that it earned our Inside Line's inaugural Editors' Choice Award.

So we acquired (hastily perhaps) another 2008 Audi S5 and set it against the new 2008 BMW M3 Coupe, a car now fortified with V8 power for the first time. Speed-reading the specifications sheets of these two cars, they seem like natural rivals: the 354-hp, all-wheel-drive 2008 Audi S5 measured against the 414-hp, rear-wheel-drive 2008 BMW M3.

But as it turns out, we gave the 2008 Audi S5 a bigger challenge than we had initially intended. Read Article

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cs4444 - 3/24/2008 5:41:13 PM

+8 Boost

Before you jump to conclusions read the whole article. The M3 performance is on another lever, and the S5 is gorgeous, and also puts down very impressive performance numbers. Both are amazing vehicles that anyone would be lucky to own, but for nearly the same money which one would you take?

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theoptimisticpessimist - 3/24/2008 8:53:40 PM

+4 Boost

CarGuy1,
Er, wrong. BMW has one of the youngest demographic in the luxury auto market.

S4cabriofoxone - 3/25/2008 9:58:22 AMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

They're not even close to the same price. S5 is about $55K, topped-out, while the BMW will go over $70,000.

JRobUSC - 3/25/2008 10:57:50 AM

+7 Boost

I'm not sure why they compared these two either, I guess they wanted V8 against V8. The 335 is a more appropriate comparison though to the S5. Similar price, similar performance.

mclaren428 - 3/25/2008 11:14:01 AM

+5 Boost

s4--"This S5 rarely puts a wheel wrong, but one drive in the M3 reveals they're playing in entirely different leagues. I'll take the ugly orange from the M Division with no options, making it the same price as the curvaceous Audi apple."

you should read the article

thethrillofdriving - 3/26/2008 1:32:08 AM

+2 Boost

carguy1: bmws are boring? sounds like someones never had the oppurtunity to drive one.

cs4444 - 3/24/2008 5:42:28 PM

+2 Boost

level*

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mini22 - 3/24/2008 5:50:58 PM

+1 Boost

No real surprise here.Still it's not a fair comparison.I think you would have to revisit when the
RS5 comes out.Although it looks like an RS5 will cost more then the M3.

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BMW4me4ever - 3/24/2008 5:53:45 PMView My AgentSpace

+6 Boost

The m3 is a spectacular driving vehicle .. If you havent had a chance to drive the New 2008, then you are missing out.

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xdrive_ - 3/24/2008 5:55:48 PM

+7 Boost

Great review. Any person would be lucky to have either car.

I was surprised that Edmunds said the S5 had a weight distribution of 60 percent front/40 percent rear. They need to get over this lingering weight distribution problem from their former FWD based platform days.

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MZauto - 3/24/2008 5:57:50 PM

+1 Boost

S5 got that great look (a cool design). M3 looks great, too. And, I think M3 will win the performance.

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Monk - 3/24/2008 6:02:16 PMView My AgentSpace

+9 Boost

The S5 looks even better in real-life than in pics - just saw one yesterday.
S5 has generally better (more beautiful, artistic) looks, but the M3 has that mean-edge performance.
I wouldn't be displeased to have either car.

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BMW4me4ever - 3/24/2008 6:04:12 PMView My AgentSpace

+5 Boost

That is a blistering slalom at 73mph and stopping from 60 in 100ft. I am surprised that they havent tested the new M DCT transmission considering it is available

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1970toyotamarc - 3/24/2008 6:05:20 PM

+2 Boost

Illuminating tidbit about 0-60 times in this article. Makes you wonder how others test vehicles, and why it is it so hard to compare. That which should be so objective (0-60 times) ends up being just about as subjective as everything else.

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BMW4me4ever - 3/24/2008 6:14:40 PMView My AgentSpace

+4 Boost

1970 - if you actually read the article, it is more than 0 to 60 times. The braking of the M3 is the quickest they have tested from 60 - 0. It is even quicker than the mighty GTR. Handling through the slalom was one of the fastest they have ever tested. This test was basically David vs Goliath. In this battle Goliath won without breaking a sweat. Kind of like how the 2008 M3 blew the doors off the ISF.

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Threepoint1415926 - 3/24/2008 6:29:11 PM

0 Boost

The Audi just looks blah in the pictures.... then you see one in real life and it seals your heart. Rips it right out of the clutches of the M3 even.

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ZBL1414 - 3/24/2008 7:30:42 PM

+5 Boost

This article really shows Audi's pricing errors. Why buy an S5 when you can have significantly better performance with the M3 for only a little bit more? Why buy an S5 when you can have the same performance with a 335i and save $5-$10k? And where are they going to price the next RS4? They have to price it in the mid to upper $60's.. anything lower and no one would buy the S5. Of course if it's in the mid to upper $60's I don't know how they will get any M3 owners to switch brands. Good luck moving these cars Audi.

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1uberaudi - 3/26/2008 2:55:48 PM

0 Boost

You don't have to worry, there is a 12 month wait at the dealership on the car.

Rupert - 3/24/2008 7:33:01 PMView My AgentSpace

-2 Boost

The S5 is quick! I had no idea it was so close to the M3 in terms of performance.

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mclaren428 - 3/24/2008 7:54:33 PM

+4 Boost

they're not really that close.

JRobUSC - 3/25/2008 7:52:27 AM

+5 Boost

the S5 IS quick... exactly as quick as a 335i/xi.

S4cabriofoxone - 3/25/2008 12:15:32 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

The S5's quickest time is 4.5. The M3's is 4.1. The 335's is 4.8. Just depends on how you view it.

S4cabriofoxone - 3/25/2008 12:15:35 PMView My AgentSpace

-2 Boost

The S5's quickest time is 4.5. The M3's is 4.1. The 335's is 4.8. Just depends on how you view it.

BMW4me4ever - 3/25/2008 1:55:54 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

S4 the quickest time for the 335 was 4.7. That is why the S5 compares to the 335 instead of the M3? You know better than that. The S5 tests and 335 coupe tests have been all but even. Whereas the M3 is so much superior it is like bringing a butter knife to a gun fight.

Agent63 - 3/24/2008 8:08:51 PM

+5 Boost

I'm torn between these two cars. I love both of these. Both offer great performance but the mighty M3 wins in that category. However an important category is the interiors of these cars. I think the S5's interior is far superior than the boring BMW's.

Although i love the M3. I would have to pick the S5. I know I would much rather be inside an S5 everyday driving to work than the BMW. Sorry folks!

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DiamondJim - 3/25/2008 12:11:17 AM

-1 Boost

nothing to be sorry about! saw an S5 today and from those LED daytime lights to the side profile to the goergeous rear end, my heart sputtered as it raced past me...

lyonboy - 3/24/2008 8:13:33 PM

+2 Boost

The S5 is so Audi BLAH! Audi will never be on my list until they do something about that 60% of the weight on the front wheels. Even if I wanted AWD I can buy cars with 50/50 weight distribution and AWD so what is Audi thinking?

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gooch - 3/25/2008 8:34:21 AM

-2 Boost

And what credentials do you have to even determine what effect a 60/40 weight distribution will have? Audis are "blah?" I'm not even a big fan of the interlocking rings, but the S5 is a sensuous car in the flesh, and those LED running lights give the car quite a distinct look. Not trying to flame you, but jeez, make some sense.

tattedtwice - 3/24/2008 8:28:55 PM

+3 Boost

I have to disagree with them about one thing; the M3 sounds WAY better than the S5. From idle all the way to its redline, the M's engine sounds beautiful. The S doesnt sound as sophisticated and could almost pass for a domestic V8.

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iown1 - 3/24/2008 9:18:25 PM

+1 Boost

No surprise. M3 better on the track. Not where i spend any time though. Didn't order an S5 soon enough. The dealer said that U.S. S5's are sold out until 09 models. I recently replaced my A8L with a Q7 and today I picked up my Infiniti G37s. So far I'm very happy with both. The G37 really surprised me. Awesome car inside and out.

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mclaren428 - 3/24/2008 9:23:33 PM

+5 Boost

"Stitch together a run free of tipped-over cones and the result is a speed of 73 mph, a record for a car that's in volume production."

"The new 2008 BMW M3 possesses a range of talent that few other automobiles can rival. On one hand, it drives like any other BMW 3 Series. But pull its hair, and the M3 transforms itself into a 400-hp hypercar. Like a champion barrel-racing horse, the M3 responds favorably to having its butt whipped once in a while. But if you try this with the S5, it might buck you off."

"Through its own engineering magic, BMW has somehow managed to give this everyday coupe the feel of a low-volume specialty car like the Porsche 911, only with a $50,000 discount. The M3 coupe makes us wonder what BMW could do if it decided to build a midengine sports car like an Audi R8."

I think they like the M3

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bmwfan1513 - 3/24/2008 9:52:21 PM

+3 Boost

The M3 is amazing. I like the sedan better than the coupe.

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adamsaf723 - 3/24/2008 11:58:55 PM

-2 Boost

'"It ran a 13.3? With that kind of speed, who needs a $67,000 RS4?" we asked ourselves.'... how about somebody that wants a 4 door?

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M53R - 3/25/2008 3:51:43 AMView My AgentSpace

+5 Boost

Then the M3 sedan is for you. :)

amazinBimmer - 3/25/2008 1:19:16 AM

-3 Boost

is this a Joke? the M3 smacks anything from VW including this crappy FWD engineered POS. the RS4 has gotten similar thrashings.. the folks from audi just dont have it yet.
the s4 does make for a good ISF competitor and audi in general does well against more plebian brand sof Acura and Lexus. let this to the big boys..
it si funny to see the audi faithful get kicked everytime..

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DasAuto - 3/25/2008 8:02:26 AM

+2 Boost

Just when i thought finally an article with no fanboy crap "amazinBimmer" comes in and ruins it. Considering the 4.2 V8 from Audi has been out for a while, its obvious BMW has to build a better car, why wouldn't they? The RS4 and S5 are more everyday cars whereas the BMW is a bit more out there. Don't get me wrong i love both cars its just when people post silly comments it just ain't right. Anyone with a right mind would applaud Audi, BMW, Mercedes....whoever for making a great everyday sportscar. Just wait till the next models of RS4 or M3 or C63 it'll be the same thing over agian. Just one great power struggle to make the ultimate performance sedan/saloon.

I just want to see the RS5 and what its going to be capable of.

lexusis350 - 3/25/2008 2:45:25 AM

+2 Boost

I like the M3 better, but not because I love BMWs. I saw the S5 at an auto show and it came off as cheap and tinny. The windows on the S5 were rolled down and when I shut the door, it sounded as if there was nothing in the door holding the window in place. It rattled and sounded broken. That's just one thing. I also thought the seats were hard, uncomfortable, and lower quality than Mercedes, Lexus or BMW's seats. But it does look and sound great. That's about all it has going for it, though.

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gooch - 3/25/2008 8:40:14 AM

-2 Boost

You're judging the S5 from an example you sat in at an auto show? Where God-know-how-many-people sat in the car, slammed the door with no regard (it's not their car; they don't care), yanked the column stalks with abandon (ever seen a kid get into a car at an auto show?), and pushed, pulled and prodded everything else inside the car? Not a fair assessment.
The seats -- sure, that's your opinion. But to judge a car at an auto show as an arbiter of the entire line doesn't make sense.

lexusis350 - 3/25/2008 4:23:14 PM

+2 Boost

You bet I'm judging my opinion of the S5 on an auto show car. None of the Lexus', Infinitis, BMWs, Mercedes', etc. did any of those things I just mentioned and they probably got handled the same way as the S5.

evilm - 3/25/2008 8:22:12 AM

+6 Boost

I would be happy with either one.

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amazinBimmer - 3/25/2008 9:05:10 AM

+3 Boost

Dasauto... you have to applaud the offering from MB only the others are hack jobs. The audi is a passat on roids (or whatver shitty platforn it is built on) and the Lexus is a poor rendition of some off the shelf Toyota. i am not flaming.. just want to remind the morons that audi and lex are not even close to the MB/ BMW tier...

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Heyhuub - 3/25/2008 9:34:17 AM

-7 Boost

If BMW is so high and mighty, then where is their supersports car? Oh, thats right, they can't sell them.

markanthony0419 - 3/25/2008 10:29:54 AM

+1 Boost

Im torn and my lease is up so my choices are S5 with great new look and great interior or the 335 coupe. As you guys know bmw is 50k the S5 is 58k that is with the options I want. Which one does a person choose. Please some help. BTW the S5 looks so much better then the M but M is still and looks to remain the king.

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gooch - 3/25/2008 4:45:48 PM

+1 Boost

Drive and decide, dude.

Htay7500 - 3/25/2008 10:33:42 AM

+1 Boost

I wanna see a RS5.

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amazinBimmer - 3/25/2008 12:17:13 PM

+2 Boost

markanthony.. of course its the cooler and faster BMW 335i coupe. get it in black on black. It looks sinister. the VW is shit.

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markanthony0419 - 3/25/2008 1:03:39 PM

+2 Boost

well amazinbimmer i am leaning toward the bmw and almost made up my mind until one crook dealer came to me saying 850 a month for the 335i with no money down i walked out of the place so now im wondering again. audi cant match the performance and all they say is quattro but when i drove the 335 and th A5 it wasnt even close and they wouldnt let me test the S5 so i think my mind is made up.

Audiphile - 3/25/2008 12:26:32 PM

+1 Boost

I am frankly wondering why they chose to compare the S5 to the M3. The BMW has 60 more horsepower and is 320 pounds lighter. The M3 is an out-and-out high-performance car, while the S5 is more of a "Grand Tourer". Naturally the M3 will perform better at the track.

In addition, the BMW costs $8,000 more than the Audi.
It would have been more logical if Edmunds had compared the S5 to the BMW 335i. If one configures the Audi and BMW so that they have the same equipment, the AWD S5 costs only $2,625 more than the RWD 335i - not a significant difference in this price range.

Many auto-enthusiast magazines and TV shows have compared the Audi S5 to the BMW 335i. They were extremely closely matched in terms of performance. If one compared the S5 to the AWD 335xi, the Audi would have the performance advantage because the 335xi sport package doesn't have as good a suspension and tire configuration as the S5 or the 335i, and the 335xi weighs 188 lbs. more than the 335i.

The RS4 was the only Audi that competed directly with the BMW M3, and it either beat or closely matched the BMW when they were compared. However, the old B7-platform version of the RS4 was discontinued a few months ago. Once Audi introduces the new B8-platform version of the RS4 and/or RS5 within the next year or so, they will have a worthy competitor for the new M3.

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markanthony0419 - 3/25/2008 1:07:49 PM

+2 Boost

the price difference is 8k not 2625 on the rwd bmw. the bmw 335i which i just got back from the dealer so i know was 49975 the S5 is 58k. Almost identical performace but if you going by price you can slash another 8k from the beamer and get a g37 and save yourself 16k over the s5. again i know before you rip me we are talking apples and oranges but i am talking just price so dont go crazy on me

JRobUSC - 3/25/2008 1:38:22 PM

+2 Boost

Audiphile, I optioned a 335xi coupe (with the 18" wheels and performance tires you incorrectly stated weren't available) and it's over $5k less than a similarly equipped S5. And the performance between them is practically identical. The 335i Coupe has beaten the S5 on a number of occassions in track tests, and the all-wheel drive 335xi is actually a tenth of a second quicker 0-60 and in the 1/4 mile because of the added traction (no LSD in the 335i makes launching tricky -- not an issue in the 335xi). Handling? Also not an issue. Automobile magazine got 0.93g out of the same setup in a recent test.

I chose the 335xi Coupe, and plan on using the savings versus the S5 to get the Dinan software. The 384 hp and 421 lb-ft would make quick work of 99% of the cars on the road, the warranty on the car stays intact, and compared to the S5 I still have $4k leftover. And before everyone jumps me about how nice the S5 is, it is very nice. But I happen to think an Alpine White 335xi Coupe with the red leather with gray wood interior is every bit as nice. And the value versus the competition is unquestionable.

Audiphile - 3/25/2008 3:55:20 PM

+1 Boost

Dear JRobUSC and markanthony0419,

I did not say that the sport package was not available on the 335xi. I said that the wheel-and-suspension component of the Sports Package available on the 335xi was not as good as the one on the 335i. 19-inch wheels are standard on the Audi S5. They are not available on the BMW 335xi, regardless of whether you opt for the Sport Package. One can get 19-inch wheels on the 335i, but they cost $1,000 extra. Also, the Sport Package costs $1,100 extra on the 335i. Thus if you want your 335i to handle as well or better as the S5, you will have to spend $2,100 extra on suspension and tire upgrades.

I accessed the US websites for both Audi and BMW. I got the standard equipment and options for both cars, along with their respective prices. I equipped the two cars as identically as possible.

The Audi S5 starts at a MSRP of $50,000 and a $775 destination/handling charge. I added metallic paint ($475) because the 335i is apparently available only with metallic paint. I added wood interior trim ($500) because wood trim is standard on the 335i. Finally I added a navigation system with 6-disc CD changer ($2,390) because the 335i comes standard with the changer. That comes to a total of $54,640.

The BMW 335i starts at $40,800 MSRP and $775 destination/handling fee. All of the paint choices were metallic ($475). I also had to add the Cold Weather Package ($750), Premium Package ($2,550), Sport Package ($1,100), 19-inch wheels (a separate $1,000 option),Active Steering ($1,400), and Comfort Access System ($500) because all of these items are standard on the S5. Finally, I had to add another $2,100 for the Navigation System because the CD changer is standard on the M3, while on the S5 the navigation system is bundled with the CD changer as an option. That comes to a total of $51,450.

In my earlier blog I had forgotten that the CD changer was optional on the S5, and I had incorrectly assumed that the MSRP listed on Audi's website included the destination/handling fee. I have corrected both errors. Thus the correct difference between these two cars is $3,190 - still an insignificant difference in this price range.

As to the BMW 335xi's superior acceleration versus the BMW 335i, "performance" as I define encompasses more than acceleration. As the 335i has larger wheels and lower-profile tires than the 335xi, and weighs 188 lbs. less, I presumed that the 335i would be the better overall performer.

I said that the auto-enthusiast press found that the two cars were extremely closely matched in terms of overall performance. I refer you to test drives by Road & Track and Car & Driver magazines, and to the British TV show "Fifth Gear". The Audi and BMW performed about the same in all three tests. (They usually found slightly better acceleration for one versus slightly better handling for the other. The S5 slightly bested the 335i in all quantitative acceleration, braking, and handling tests condu

JRobUSC - 3/25/2008 4:40:27 PM

+5 Boost

Audiphile, you can't get both cars with exactly the same equipment, there will be some tradeoffs from one to the other regardless of which way you go. When I optioned mine here is what I had:

Ibis White S5 Tiptronic $51800
Magma Red Leather
Grey Wood $500
Tech Package (backup camera, adaptive lights, smart key) $1700
Nav/CD Changer $2390
B&O Sound $850
Total $57240

Alpine White 335xi Coupe $42600
Premium Package $2550
Sport Package w/ 18" Wheels $1000
Steptronic $1275
Comfort Access $500
Heated Seats $500
Park Distance $350
Navigation $2100
Total $51750

That's as close as you can get the two cars, and it's a difference of $5490 from MSRP to MSRP. Add in the discount on the 335xi and it becomes a whopping $7950 difference. Things like xenon adaptive lights and Logic7 sound are standard on the 335xi Coupe. The S5 does come with a 6-Disc CD changer, which the BMW doesn't actually, but I don't really care about CD changers. Likewise the 19" wheels are nice but 18's will do the job just fine (a 335i w/ 19" wheels would save an additional $700). I'm willing to forgo those items for the $8k price difference, because it allows me for $1600 to get the Dinan software and still have $6350 remaining, or $7050 in the case of a 335i with 19's.

That's a big chunk of change, 12-15% of the price of the S5 in fact, including the Dinan goodies that will likely make the 335xi quicker than an M3 or RS4. That was too good to pass up for me.

Audiphile - 3/25/2008 4:50:19 PM

+1 Boost

Oops - I seemed to have exceeded my thread limit! :-) Here is the ending of my previous thread.

The S5 slightly bested the 335i in all quantitative acceleration, braking, and handling tests conducted by Road & Track.) Based on the Road & Track, Car & Driver, & Fifth Gear road tests, I concluded that the automotive press was equally impressed by the performance of both cars.

There are other factors besides performance to consider when comparing the Audi S5 and BMW 335i - factors such as exterior and interior styling, fit and finish, interior room, luggage space, warranty coverage, etc. (By the way, BMW offers free routine maintenance checks during its warranty period. Audi used to offer free routine maintenance checks, but now it is a $600 option.) As both the S5 and the 335i are excellent cars, choose the one you like the best.

Audiphile - 3/26/2008 3:48:54 PM

+1 Boost

JRobUSC, you found a couple of items you didn't want or need, and you were able to save some money. More power to you.

I do not know what Dinan software is, but I suspect that is a chip/software upgrade for the engine that boosts horsepower and torque. As the BMW 335i/xi have turbocharged engines, you should get a big performance boost.

You said that the Dinan package would not void the manufacturer's warranty. That's good.

However, be careful with these upgrade kits. One of the reasons that Bentley came out with the more powerful "Speed" version of the Continental GT coupe was because some customers, in attempts to increase engine power, had ruined their engines by installing inappropriate upgrade kits.

markanthony0419 - 3/25/2008 1:19:05 PM

+2 Boost

almost forgot throw in the bmw free maintenance thats another 3k after say 3 years.

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moto - 3/27/2008 8:52:06 PM

0 Boost

If my experience with BMW counts any, you'll need that maintenance coverage. Just my 2 cents...

Dr550 - 3/25/2008 1:48:00 PM

+3 Boost

Audi S5 has beautiful interior and silhouette. BMW has performance edge. For everyday use, I would take the S5.

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markanthony0419 - 3/25/2008 2:35:42 PM

+1 Boost

jrob on the money with the savings and putting it into the dinan software i think its a done issue for audi unless they change the prices

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lyonboy - 3/25/2008 2:38:18 PM

+1 Boost

It seems to me that the S5 should be compared with a 335i not a M3. I think the 335i would still top the S5 and get alot better mileage and be cheaper.

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MunichRob - 3/26/2008 6:34:27 AMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

8 grand more for an similar equipped M3? That's it? Is it a question which car anyone in the right mind would take? Unless you want a coupe that's a little more practical fair enough, but if you want to drive...absolutely no question.

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NoFHoes - 3/26/2008 2:11:32 PM

+1 Boost

Someone's decision is based on the situation they are in. With that said, if I were looking into an M3 and S5, and had no alternate transportation when it came time for snow or trips to colder regions north, my first choice would be the S5. As a current S4 owner, I have 100% confidence and control in inclement weather, especially snow. It was pathetic to see an E46 M3 and 335i limping home causing insurmountable amounts of traffic because they could not keep a straight path without pulling the tail out.

On the other hand, if I had an alternate vehicle for cases where commutes are long and/or threat for inclement weather due to region, I will hands down go with the M3 because of the performance, and no need to worry about limping home because of RWD. Yes, I could buy snow's, but not as effective as AWD with my S4.

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Jordanski - 3/27/2008 8:01:45 PM

+4 Boost

I'm no crazy fanboy, but to be honest. These reviews and comments are a waste of time.

We all know deep down inside that the M3 kicks the GT-R and S5's rear.

The BMW M3 will always be an iconic vehicle, and will never be beaten!

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moto - 3/27/2008 9:04:50 PM

0 Boost

I've said it a billion times, and it seems i must repeat it again:

If you want to compare coupes:
Porsche 997 > BMW M3 > Audi S5 > BMW 3xx on track
Porsche C4 > Audi S5 > BMW M3 > BMW 3xx on anything but dry asphalt

If you want to compare small hatchbacks:
Cayman > TT on track
TT > Cayman on anything but dry asphalt

If you want to compare roadsters:
Boxster > Z4 > TT on track
TT quattro > Boxster > Z4 on anything but dry asphalt

You can haggle about prices and styling until the cows come home -- prices vary greatly and options/styling choices are personal. The optimal performance vehicle depends HOW and WHERE you are going to use it.

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