On this planet of high-performance sports activities vehicles, BMW has carved out a particular place with its legendary M collection. And though it began with the M3 and M5, it’s the compact M2 that holds a particular place within the fanatic’s hearts. Due to this fact, on this thrilling showdown, we carry collectively the 2023 BMW M2, the predecessor F87 M2 CS, the M3 Competitors rear-wheel drive, and the enduring BMW 1M to find out which of those rear-wheel-drive powerhouses reigns supreme.
Specs: The Opponents
With the M2, M2 CS, and 1M boasting a six-speed guide transmission and the M3 Competitors geared up with an 8-speed automated, we put them by way of their paces on the BMW Efficiency Heart in South Carolina. Let’s dive into the exhilarating observe and autocross experiences and discover out if the 2023 BMW M2 lives as much as its “mini-M4” aspirations.
First, let’s take a look at the specs of the 4 vehicles. The 2023 BMW M2 is a rear-wheel drive, six-speed guide model producing 453 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The F87 M2 CS additionally got here with a RWD setup and the six-speed guide, however much less energy: 444 horsepower. The torque stays the identical, however the weight drops considerably: 300 lbs lighter than the G87 M2. Subsequent on the checklist is the enduring BMW 1M with 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. After all, it has an identical six-speed guide. Final on our checklist was a G80 BMW M3.
Observe Testing: The M2 vs. the M2 CS vs. the 1M
Why the M3 and never the M4? Sadly BMW of North America couldn’t supply for us an M4 Coupe so we needed to accept the four-door sedan. Moreover, this M3 was a Competitors model with an 8-speed automated delivering 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Whereas it’s evident that this explicit automobile would excel by way of straight-line velocity and observe efficiency, our focus was totally on experiencing the driving dynamics and total really feel of the car, somewhat than solely prioritizing drag instances.
One burning query on everybody’s thoughts was whether or not the brand new 2023 BMW M2 may reside as much as its “mini-M4” expectations. With the M3/M4 being a benchmark for efficiency and driving dynamics, the M2 had some large footwear to fill. We gained’t spoil the end result so be happy to observe this unique showdown between some formidable vehicles. Additionally, please subscribe to our Youtube channel for extra movies!