Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD vs BMW X3 M40i G01: which is truly faster?

Off the line, the Bmw X3 M40i hits 100 km/h in 4.78 s versus 5.05 s for the Model Y Long Range AWD. Despite lacking instant torque, 360 hp of power compensates. At this point, the Bmw X3 M40i leads by 0.27 s and sits roughly 7 m ahead.

At 200 metres, the Bmw X3 M40i is doing 142 km/h against 143 km/h for the Model Y Long Range AWD. The gap is 0.24 s. The gap remains stable from the start.

At 400 metres standing start, the Bmw X3 M40i crosses the line in 13.02 s versus 13.27 s. The 0.25 s gap represents roughly 12 m of track - two to three car lengths.

Past 400 metres, the Bmw X3 M40i continues to build its lead. At 600 metres, it runs at 197 km/h versus 197 km/h. At 1,000 metres, the Bmw X3 M40i finishes in 23.67 s versus 23.97 s, with a 0.29 s lead.

Both rivals are electronically governed, but not at the same level: the Model Y Long Range AWD is capped at 217 km/h, the Bmw X3 M40i at 250 (i.e. 155 mph - industry threshold) km/h. This isn’t a physical engine limit - it’s a manufacturer choice, usually for tyre safety or homologation reasons. Neither car reaches its true aerodynamic top speed.

Instant electric torque gives an advantage off the line. The higher top speed of the combustion engine gives an advantage over longer distances. The distance at which one catches the other depends on the top speed differential.

In European road use (130 km/h max), both vehicles reach the legal speed limit in under 7.41 seconds. The 0.27 s difference in 0 to 100 km/h is mostly felt in motorway merging and overtaking.