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BMW M2 VERSUS THE WORLD! OK, JUST 4 CARS; THE GOLF R, AUDI RS3, A45 AMG S AND THE CAYMAN GT4 RS

Published: 2025-08-04 16:38:59 Last Updated: 2025-08-04 16:43:47

When BMW launched the M2, it wasn’t just another performance coupe; it was a callback, a nod to the classic M3s of old. A machine that focused on driving joy first, spec sheet flexing second. To understand the M2 properly, we need to take it just one step back to the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupé. Not officially called an M1 (out of respect for the iconic mid-engined ‘70s M1 supercar), the 1M was a Frankensteined fury machine. BMW’s M division bolted bits from the M3 (suspension, brakes, diff) onto the humble 1 Series Coupé and dropped in the twin-turbo N54 straight-six. It had 250 kW and 450 Nm with a 6-speed manual only, capable of 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Only around 6,300 units were made, making it an instant collector's item. It was also the spiritual prototype for what would become the M2. The real deal F87 BMW M2 came in 2015, based on the F22 2 Series Coupé platform. It used the N55 3.0-litre single-turbo inline-six from the M235i, but tuned to make more power and mated to proper M hardware underneath. It had 272 kW and 500 Nm with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and RWD. The BMW M2 Competition arrived in 2018; this one saw fitment of the S55 engine from the F80 M3/M4, albeit slightly detuned. Alongside a stronger cooling system and a revised chassis setup, the M2 Comp became sharper, faster, and angrier with 302 kW and 550 Nm. This was the sweet spot for many, more refined than the OG M2, but still raw enough to kick out the rear and kill tyres. In 2020, the F87 M2 CS arrived as the ultimate F87 send-off. Carbon fibre bonnet and roof, adaptive suspension, carbon-ceramic brake option, lightweight interior tweaks, and the S55 turned up to 331 kW, matching the M4. In 2022, the M2 was reborn on the new G87 platform, but this time it stirred the pot with its controversial looks and grown-up size. But make no mistake, it was still a proper M car with 338 kW and 550 Nm.

So yeah, the latest BMW M2 for 2025 is a beast of a thing. It’s got all the right bits to make it a true M car, which, when added to the compact dimensions, makes for some rather impressive performance. It’s more like the old school E36 M3 than the hugely popular F80 and G80 versions that have put on some weight and size. The BMW M2 has a power output of 353 kW from its tried and trusted high-performance M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder powerplant. The setup also delivers a rather healthy 600 Nm of torque, and paired with either an 8-speed M Steptronic sport transmission with Drivelogic or a 6-speed manual transmission, it remains a driver’s car. The M2 is rear-wheel drive with an active M differential, so it’s great for drifting fun when all the nanny systems are turned off. And now Carwow has put the car to the test, using some pretty cool heavy-hitters. The crew put the new M2 up against the timeless Golf R, the powerful AMG A45 S, Audi’s symphonic 5-pot RS3 and Porsche’s meanest compact model, the Cayman GT4 RS. The Golf R packs a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that puts down 245 kW and 420 Nm with all-wheel drive and a 7-speed dual-clutch. The AMG A45 S has the same-sized engine as the VW, and it creates 310 kW and 500 Nm, with an 8-speed automatic gearbox as well as all-wheel drive. The Audi RS3 packs that iconic turbocharged 2.5-litre 5-cylinder that creates 294 kW and 500 Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 7-speed auto. The one we like most is the Cayman GT4 RS with a normally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six that generates 368 kW and 450 Nm, which is sent to the rear wheels only via a 7-speed auto gearbox. Where are you placing your bets?

Take a look at the YouTube video from the Carwow crew that sees the latest version of the BMW M2 in a drag race against some really cool sorta related competition cars - who's your money on?: New BMW M2 v GT4 RS v A45 v RS3 v Golf R: DRAG RACE | carwow

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