The engines are identical, but the Jag has AWD grip.

This coupe race should be a thrilling neck-and-neck battle. Both the BMW M2 CSS and Jaguar F-Type luxury coupes are available. The F-Type, a First Edition model, packs the 450-horsepower Jaguar’s supercharged 5.0-liter V8. Manufacturer statistics show that the Bimmer can also produce 450 horsepower from its twin-turbo 3.0-liter I6. Both cars reach 62 mph (100 km/h), in the middle-fourth-second range.

That sounds like the recipe for a great drag race. Lovecars provides the action, but motoring legend Tiff Lackell points out that real-world performance does not always match what you see in the video. This is particularly true when you consider the acceleration figures. The BMW starts the race with a six speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, while the Jaguar has an eight-speed automatic with all wheel drive. Although the F-Type appears to have the advantage, the larger cat is more than 400 lbs heavier.

It all comes down to the launch. We have seen time and again that lower-powered cars can outperform their horsepower counterparts by having a better launch. Although BMW lists the M2 as being faster than its Jag to 62 mph (which is a good thing), it’s harder to find the right launch combination for a RWD manual pilot than an AWD auto. This added challenge is what makes manual-equipped cars so thrilling for enthusiasts.

That’s what Needell finds himself in when he takes the Bimmer to work. You know what? Even for the most experienced pro, it is not easy to nail the perfect launch. Although the Jaguar actually launches first, the M2 is just behind it. However, the F-Type’s all-wheel-drive grip quickly erases this small advantage. Half-track sees the Jag in the lead but the M2 is closing the gap. Can the Jag overcome its less-than-perfect launch and claim victory? Check out the video to see how it did.