The 2021 Polestar 1 and the BMW i8 are both luxury plug-in hybrid sports cars, each offering unique features and performance characteristics. Here's a detailed comparison to help you understand their differences:
Engine and Performance:
Polestar 1: Equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, both turbocharged and supercharged, paired with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 619 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes an 8-speed automatic transmission.
BMW i8: Features a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine combined with an electric motor, delivering a total of 369 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Efficiency:
Polestar 1: Achieves a combined fuel economy of approximately 26 MPG.
BMW i8: Offers a combined fuel economy of around 27 MPG.
Electric Range and Battery:
Polestar 1: Equipped with a 34 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of up to 60 miles.
BMW i8: Comes with an 11.6 kWh battery, offering an electric-only range of approximately 18 miles.
Dimensions and Weight:
Polestar 1: Has a curb weight of around 5,170 pounds.
BMW i8: Significantly lighter, with a curb weight of approximately 3,501 pounds.
Pricing:
Polestar 1: Priced around $155,000.
BMW i8: Had a starting price of approximately $147,500 before it was discontinued in 2020.
Pros and Cons:
Polestar 1:
Pros: Higher horsepower, longer electric range, and luxurious interior.
Cons: Heavier weight affects agility, and higher price point.
BMW i8:
Pros: Lightweight construction, distinctive design with butterfly doors, and agile handling.
Cons: Shorter electric range and less powerful compared to Polestar 1.
Conclusion:
The Polestar 1 offers more power and a longer electric range, making it suitable for those seeking a luxurious and performance-oriented hybrid with extended electric capabilities. In contrast, the BMW i8 provides a lightweight and agile driving experience with a futuristic design, appealing to those who prioritize handling and unique aesthetics.
For a visual comparison and in-depth review, you might find this video helpful:
Youtube
Engine and Performance:
Polestar 1: Equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, both turbocharged and supercharged, paired with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 619 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes an 8-speed automatic transmission.
BMW i8: Features a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine combined with an electric motor, delivering a total of 369 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Efficiency:
Polestar 1: Achieves a combined fuel economy of approximately 26 MPG.
BMW i8: Offers a combined fuel economy of around 27 MPG.
Electric Range and Battery:
Polestar 1: Equipped with a 34 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of up to 60 miles.
BMW i8: Comes with an 11.6 kWh battery, offering an electric-only range of approximately 18 miles.
Dimensions and Weight:
Polestar 1: Has a curb weight of around 5,170 pounds.
BMW i8: Significantly lighter, with a curb weight of approximately 3,501 pounds.
Pricing:
Polestar 1: Priced around $155,000.
BMW i8: Had a starting price of approximately $147,500 before it was discontinued in 2020.
Pros and Cons:
Polestar 1:
Pros: Higher horsepower, longer electric range, and luxurious interior.
Cons: Heavier weight affects agility, and higher price point.
BMW i8:
Pros: Lightweight construction, distinctive design with butterfly doors, and agile handling.
Cons: Shorter electric range and less powerful compared to Polestar 1.
Conclusion:
The Polestar 1 offers more power and a longer electric range, making it suitable for those seeking a luxurious and performance-oriented hybrid with extended electric capabilities. In contrast, the BMW i8 provides a lightweight and agile driving experience with a futuristic design, appealing to those who prioritize handling and unique aesthetics.
For a visual comparison and in-depth review, you might find this video helpful:
Youtube