[frank70]

Until now i have had about 6 (non-M) BMW's and so far i have always choosen the RWD version over the AWD, mainly because where i live AWD is not needed, and i never felt the need for it. With my G80 competition i would have chosen AWD if it had been available from the start, thinking that with over 500 HP AWD would absolutely be needed. As i did not want to wait though i bought a RWD G80 competition, and i have to say i am surprised on how much traction the RWD G80 has. So far in 13000 km i have only managed to see the traction control light once or twice. So the RWD G80 has awesome traction already (if you drive it normally with all systems on). So you really do not need AWD.

On the other hand : the extra cost is very small. Less extra cost than for instance the exterior carbon package. So for the extra cost i think it is likely the most useful option you can order. It is strange really that this useful extra option is priced so low, compared to other far less useful options.

[02M3ForMe]

If you intend to option the larger 19/20” 826M wheels, the upgrade to M xDrive is even cheaper since the wheels are bundled.

If you’re considering AWD at all, M xDrive is a no-brainer given that you can put it in full RWD mode at will and enjoy the best of both worlds. Professional reviews will confirm this and the market will reward you when it’s time to sell.

The car is great in all configurations, with appropriate price discounts based on trim level. Every variant gives you excellent power, handling, steering, braking, and amenities/quality. You can’t lose.

['Cane]

The wheels are included in the Competition package, either in RWD or AWD. They are a $1300 uncharge in the 6MT.

[02M3ForMe]

Originally Posted by 'Cane

The wheels are included in the Competition package, either in RWD or AWD. They are a $1300 uncharge in the 6MT.

Good to know. My first G82 was 6MT, so it’s relevant to me (M xDrive car on the way).

[The Nerd]

Originally Posted by 02M3ForMe

If you intend to option the larger 19/20" 826M wheels, the upgrade to M xDrive is even cheaper since the wheels are bundled.

If you're considering AWD at all, M xDrive is a no-brainer given that you can put it in full RWD mode at will and enjoy the best of both worlds. Professional reviews will confirm this and the market will reward you when it's time to sell.

The car is great in all configurations, with appropriate price discounts based on trim level. Every variant gives you excellent power, handling, steering, braking, and amenities/quality. You can't lose.

Aren't the 825M wheels also the 19/20" configuration?

[Vic55]

Originally Posted by The Nerd

Aren't the 825M wheels also the 19/20" configuration?

Yes I had them on my PB G80

[M3LISSA]

I stand by my rant… I'll keep my RWD.

[Gfit]

I really doubt the primary reason for putting the xdrive in the M3 and M5 was for driving in snow. I've yet to see an awd Ferrari, Lamborghini or 911T in the snow either.

[ManAndMachine]

Choice is yours sir, personally I'm Old School...
RWD 6MT Buckets

[KevinGS]

The X drive simply makes sense, for most people.

Having said that, I own a RWD, and since I never drive aggressively in inclement weather, and I love the way this G8X RWD platform feels, I definitely don't want or need an AWD G8X. I've always preferred RWD over AWD, when given the option.

But again, for most, I think the AWD is simply the best option...especially if you love racing from stop lights. I'm lucky if I do this even once a year, as it's just not me. I'm a track guy, high-speed guy, and a backroad guy...and as such, this RWD suits me just fine.

[superbrew]

I have a question for the people who talk about RWD feel vs xDrive. I have owned 2 F80's, and now an xDrive M3. I occasionally take the spirited drive and autocross. In what ways does the AWD M3 feel different from RWD?
In my short experience with the car, I don't feel like it is AWD. In fact, in my first autocross, I power oversteered out of a sweeper. With all that said, I would not compare xDrive to quattro or subaru's AWD. Those felt like FWD biased cars.

[Vic55]

Originally Posted by superbrew

I have a question for the people who talk about RWD feel vs xDrive. I have owned 2 F80's, and now an xDrive M3. I occasionally take the spirited drive and autocross. In what ways does the AWD M3 feel different from RWD?
In my short experience with the car, I don't feel like it is AWD. In fact, in my first autocross, I power oversteered out of a sweeper. With all that said, I would not compare xDrive to quattro or subaru's AWD. Those felt like FWD biased cars.

I wrote this on page 1 as one of the few owners of both G80 iterations (RWD and X Drive)

You can not really tell the difference unless you already knew about it or doing some unique controlled rolling tests with proper gear. The cars drive incredibly similar on street roads and big turns and sharp curves. This is of course while rolling but everyone knows the gap is from the launch and in some cases from a moving situation where traction is limited or weather is an issue. Its mash and go!!

The day I took delivery of my X drive; i drove it about 110 miles home from the dealer thru open express ways, traffic, turns, etc. The difference is negligible.

I have owned both--- key indicators for me:

1. weather- if you live in non inclement weather you will be fine with either
2. tuning- if modding with hp/tq gains then X drive is key for grip
3. If all you do and love is dig races- X drive is the one in the real world
4. If you do controlled rolling races and tenths matter then RWD will be the advantage up top

I didnt dump my RWD because I wanted the X drive. I sold it because of the immense profit I made AND that the XDrive or any G80 Comp was available (Sept). I have no bias and would happily get a RWD car again. Outside of the extra drive shaft, the looks are identical on equally optioned cars. Steering is just a minute different since there is the added front axle weight but its negligible. If 50kg matters to you then get the RWD.

I see you live in NY-- I think I personally would get the X Drive.

My experiences are based on true ownership and not in a controlled environment but daily- everyday atmosphere.

[superbrew]

Originally Posted by Vic55

I wrote this on page 1 as one of the few owners of both G80 iterations (RWD and X Drive)

You can not really tell the difference unless you already knew about it or doing some unique controlled rolling tests with proper gear. The cars drive incredibly similar on street roads and big turns and sharp curves. This is of course while rolling but everyone knows the gap is from the launch and in some cases from a moving situation where traction is limited or weather is an issue. Its mash and go!!

The day I took delivery of my X drive; i drove it about 110 miles home from the dealer thru open express ways, traffic, turns, etc. The difference is negligible.

That is what I thought. I find it interesting how some are making it out to be a night and day difference, and I don't see it.

[Vic55]

Originally Posted by superbrew

That is what I thought. I find it interesting how some are making it out to be a night and day difference, and I don't see it.

There are those that without true ownership of both want to justify whats parked in their garage.

I try to be unbiased but there is not such thing as a bias meter. If there was, a lot of members here would be off the charts.

[KevinGS]

Originally Posted by Vic55

I wrote this on page 1 as one of the few owners of both G80 iterations (RWD and X Drive)

You can not really tell the difference unless you already knew about it or doing some unique controlled rolling tests with proper gear. The cars drive incredibly similar on street roads and big turns and sharp curves. This is of course while rolling but everyone knows the gap is from the launch and in some cases from a moving situation where traction is limited or weather is an issue. Its mash and go!!

The day I took delivery of my X drive; i drove it about 110 miles home from the dealer thru open express ways, traffic, turns, etc. The difference is negligible.

...which means most people should just buy the AWD version. It's faster and safer.

I have a RWD and will definitely not be trading in mine for an AWD, but if I were buying one now, I'd just get the AWD...just 'cause it's faster and safer in most circumstances.

...though I'm still amazed at the traction of the RWD. Hec, to me, it almost feels like AWD...until you turn off the nannies, then you had better be careful with the throttle. It will get sideways quick, especially when you turn up the engine and throttle sensitivity to max aggressiveness.

[Patton250]

Originally Posted by KevinGS

...which means most people should just buy the AWD version. It's faster and safer.

I have a RWD and will definitely not be trading in mine for an AWD, but if I were buying one now, I'd just get the AWD...just 'cause it's faster and safer in most circumstances.

...though I'm still amazed at the traction of the RWD. Hec, to me, it almost feels like AWD...until you turn off the nannies, then you had better be careful with the throttle. It will get sideways quick, especially when you turn up the engine and throttle sensitivity to max aggressiveness.

The RWD does have unbelievably awesome traction. Absolutely true.

[mn_bmw]

Originally Posted by KevinGS

...which means most people should just buy the AWD version. It's faster and safer.

I have a RWD and will definitely not be trading in mine for an AWD, but if I were buying one now, I'd just get the AWD...just 'cause it's faster and safer in most circumstances.

...though I'm still amazed at the traction of the RWD. Hec, to me, it almost feels like AWD...until you turn off the nannies, then you had better be careful with the throttle. It will get sideways quick, especially when you turn up the engine and throttle sensitivity to max aggressiveness.

I don't understand why people think AWD is safer. It only helps you take off faster and avoid getting stuck, otherwise it's the same car only heavier. Before active handling and traction control AWD was definitely safer, but now not so much.

[boostm3]

Originally Posted by mn_bmw

I don't understand why people think AWD is safer. It only helps you take off faster and avoid getting stuck, otherwise it's the same car only heavier. Before active handling and traction control AWD was definitely safer, but now not so much.

Well, instead of the nannies kicking in when powering out of a corner, you get to use full power without the slippage, so its a performance advantage if you ever are in that situation.

I think a lot of people will get it , though, because of the supercar-like 3.1 sec 0-60

[mn_bmw]

Originally Posted by boostm3

Well, instead of the nannies kicking in when powering out of a corner, you get to use full power without the slippage, so its a performance advantage if you ever are in that situation.

How is that safer?

[KevinGS]

Originally Posted by mn_bmw

How is that safer?

I believe it's safer in inclement weather, especially for those that like to push the car when the road conditions are less than ideal.

[mn_bmw]

Originally Posted by KevinGS

I believe it's safer in inclement weather, especially for those that like to push the car when the road conditions are less than ideal.

I personally think it's a false sense of security and may even contribute to dangerous situations. I live in Minneapolis, and without fail every year I see more 4x4's in the ditch than any other type of car. Winter tires are exponentially more important than AWD vs RWD for safety.

[Gfit]

Originally Posted by mn_bmw

I personally think it's a false sense of security and may even contribute to dangerous situations. I live in Minneapolis, and without fail every year I see more 4x4's in the ditch than any other type of car. Winter tires are exponentially more important than AWD vs RWD for safety.

Again, most seem to focus on awd and driving in the snow. No manufacturer designs high performance, 500+hp, cars for driving in the snow. It's for additional performance off the line and pulling out of tight turns a bit faster.