Changan SL03 EV vs BMW M3
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Changan SL03 EV | BMW M3 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 258 | 510 | -49.4% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 320 | 650 | -50.8% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (C-NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Petrol | — |
| Transmission | Single-speed | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $25,746 | $108,324 | -76.2% |
- BMW M3 makes about 49% more power (510 vs 258 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (China and Germany); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: SL03 EV or M3?
Changan SL03 EV advantages
- Affordability (+76%)
BMW M3 advantages
- Engine power (+49%)
- Pulling torque (+51%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Changan SL03 EV if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the BMW M3 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Changan SL03 EV delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Changan SL03 EV vs BMW M3: which should you choose?
Changan SL03 EV (2022 515 Pure Edition) — electric sedan with 258 hp and 320 Nm, rated at 12.3 kWh/100km, 5-star C-NCAP safety; priced near $25,746 in the China market.
BMW M3 (2024 Competition xDrive) — petrol sedan with 510 hp and 650 Nm, rated at 9.9 km/L, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $108,324 in the Germany market.
Changan SL03 EV vs BMW M3: BMW M3 is more powerful. BMW M3 makes about 49% more power (510 vs 258 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW M3 is the more powerful, at 510 hp against 258 hp, with 650 Nm of torque on tap. Its petrol drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Petrol), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Changan SL03 EV is rated 5 stars by C-NCAP and BMW M3 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Changan SL03 EV lists lower at about $25,746 (USD-converted from the China market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Changan SL03 EV better than the BMW M3?
BMW M3 takes the overall edge, though Changan SL03 EV wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW M3 makes about 49% more power (510 vs 258 hp).
What is the main difference between the Changan SL03 EV and the BMW M3?
BMW M3 makes about 49% more power (510 vs 258 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Changan SL03 EV delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Changan SL03 EV if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the BMW M3 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.