In a veritable conflict of the titans, the BMW XM met the Porsche Cayenne at a drag strip. It’s one of many first events to see the devoted M mannequin in a quarter-mile duel. It’s not simply any XM however the Label Purple model aka the model’s strongest manufacturing automobile. As if 738 horsepower wasn’t sufficient, this speedy SUV has been tuned to over 800 hp.

Within the different nook, the Cayenne just isn’t an abnormal model both. We’re coping with the Coupe Turbo GT and it too has had its V8 engine massaged for additional energy. It now makes simply over 700 hp, and whereas it’s significantly lower than the colossus from BMW M, Zuffenhausen’s SUV is lots lighter. The Porsche ideas the scales at 2,328 kilograms (5,132 kilos), making it roughly 400 kg (882 lbs) lighter than its opponent from Munich.

These drag races are reminder that energy isn’t every thing since different components matter, with weight being a serious differentiator. The XM Label Purple was gradual off the road as a result of driver’s poor response, permitting the Cayenne Turbo GT to realize a considerable benefit immediately. The Porsche gained the primary duel with out breaking a sweat.

The second combat was a lot nearer however the end result was the identical because the Cayenne gained but once more. The XM tried to get its revenge within the third battle however to no avail, because it misplaced within the epilogue as effectively. BMW’s flagship SUV posted its greatest quarter-mile time within the third race with 11.263 seconds whereas the Porsche’s greatest run was within the second duel, at 11.168 seconds.

Though the Cayenne Turbo GT was the undisputed winner that day, the XM Label Purple did have greater lure speeds: 124.76 mph vs 122.18 mph within the second drag race and 125.15 mph vs 121.04 mph within the third combat. This tells us the 2 SUVs would’ve been neck and neck in a half-mile race the place the BMW’s greater velocity would have allowed it to catch up.

Regardless of being massive and heavy SUVs, the 2 German luxobarges can do the quarter mile within the low 11-second vary. It’s a powerful feat however that massive heft will probably be felt in a nook the place a smaller and lighter automobile akin to an M2 or a Cayman will shine.

Supply: DragTimes / YouTube