New Supra vs M4: Shared Platform, Different Character
Toyota GR Supra vs BMW M4 comparison. Same engine, different personalities.
Bavarian Blood Brothers
The 2020+ Toyota Supra and BMW M4 share more than market positioning—they share a platform, engine, and factory. This unique relationship raises an inevitable question: is the Supra a Japanese car in German clothing, or has Toyota created something genuinely distinct?
This comparison examines two cars that are technically siblings but aim at different buyers.
Detailed Comparison
The Comparison
Powertrain
Toyota Supra MK5:
The B58 3.0L turbo inline-six produces 382hp (2021+). Toyota tuned for linear delivery and everyday usability. The 8-speed automatic is the only transmission option—a point of contention for purists.
BMW M4 G82:
The S58 engine is an evolution of the B58, producing 473hp (503hp in Competition). Available with 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic. The M4 has raw power advantage and transmission choice.
Verdict: M4 for power and manual option; Supra for value and Toyota badge.
Chassis and Dynamics
Supra:
Shorter wheelbase than the M4 makes it more playful and willing to rotate. Toyota focused on agility and approachability. The suspension setup prioritizes fun over ultimate lap times.
M4:
Longer wheelbase provides stability at high speeds. The M division's calibration emphasizes precision and adjustability. Track-focused but still capable on the street.
Verdict: Supra for fun factor; M4 for precision and track capability.
Design
Supra:
Bold, polarizing design with curved surfaces and aggressive proportions. References classic Supra heritage while forging its own identity. The double-bubble roof is both functional and distinctive.
M4:
The large kidney grilles divided opinion on launch, but the overall design is more conventional. Traditional BMW proportions with aggressive M cues.
Verdict: Personal preference—both are distinctive.
Ownership Experience
Supra:
Toyota's reputation for reliability. Standard warranty coverage. Smaller dealer network for performance-focused service.
M4:
BMW M dealer expertise. More expensive service and maintenance. The M brand carries specific expectations and community.
Vehicle A
Pros
- ✓ Lower purchase price
- ✓ Toyota reliability reputation
- ✓ Playful chassis dynamics
- ✓ Strong value proposition
Cons
- ✗ No manual option
- ✗ Lower power output
- ✗ BMW drivetrain stigma
- ✗ Less track focused
Vehicle B
Pros
- ✓ Manual transmission available
- ✓ More powerful
- ✓ M division pedigree
- ✓ Track capability
Cons
- ✗ Higher price
- ✗ Controversial design
- ✗ Higher running costs
- ✗ Heavier weight
The Verdict
The Verdict
Choose the Toyota Supra if you:
- Want the Toyota badge and reliability reputation
- Prefer a more playful, approachable chassis
- Value the price difference (significant)
- Don't require a manual transmission
Choose the BMW M4 if you:
- Must have a manual transmission
- Want maximum power from the platform
- Prefer M division heritage and dealer expertise
- Are prepared for higher ownership costs
The honest take: The Supra offers 80% of the M4 experience at roughly 70% of the price. For most buyers, that value proposition is compelling.
The M4 makes sense if you specifically want the manual transmission, maximum power, or the M badge. It's the more hardcore choice but at a meaningful premium.
Both cars are excellent. The platform they share is fundamentally sound. Your choice depends on which brand narrative speaks to you and whether the manual matters.