Recently my coworker and I were having a discussion on which one of our cars would be faster in a straight line race. He owns a 2008 BMW 650i with the flappy paddle shifters and I own a 2013 Camaro 2SS/RS 6spd manual with a Hurst Shifter. His argument was that although on paper our cars were quite similar, he could go through gears quicker and put the power down more efficiently. I on the other hand argued that I have between 60 and 80 more horsepower, and while both our cars are quite heavy, my torque figures would prove victory. So one day we decided to put our cars to the test.
After finding a proper location to have our trials, we agreed that we would do a rolling start at 60mph and up to 130 mph.
Race 1: Since I had just bought the Camaro and this being my first manual car, I was hesitant that I would win. From 60-100mph, we were about even, but from 100-130, I pulled away and won by about the length of 3-4 feet.
My coworker made the excuse that while he had manual mode on, he did not engage sport mode, limiting his power. So he had a trick up his sleeve. But I did some research and I found out that I made the mistake of going into 5th gear. The 2013 Camaro 2SS can reach its top speed of 155mph in 4th gear, and had I stayed in 4th, I would have had an even larger victory in Race 1.
Race 2: At a rolling start of 60, the BMW had sport mode engaged, and I made sure to only use 3rd and 4th gear. From 60-115mph it was extremely close, however staying in 4th gear made a huge difference. From 115-135mph I pulled away and beat my coworker by about 6 feet.
Results: Don't buy a $92,000 BMW and try to race a $40,000 Camaro.
Just a note: A 2008 BMW 650i was worth $92,000 in 2008. The depreciation rate is so ridiculous that it is now worth between $24,000 - $30,000. Depending on options & mileage.
Another note: We did not do this on a public street or highway. We both agreed that we wanted to stay out of jail so we found a old airport near where we work.