Who's selling to get an M2?

[Blksnowflake]

Originally Posted by Hazey82

Looking for honest feedback here. I switched from ordering the M2 to the M3 because the special bespoke engine and extra touches (seats, CF, mirrors, dome) but was always concerned that the potential to get playful with the M3 on twisty backroads or the track (just like Sam was from the Bimmerpost review vid) would be out of my league. My current E46 M3 I can push close to the limits and feel totally connected and be playful. From the review it seems this is easily achievable with the M2 even with MDM and its made me question my decision.

So the big question, can an average enthusiast driver get to those playful limits with an M3/M4 in euro MDM mode without worry of killing themselves or the car on a backroad like it looks like you can on the M2?
My concern is I won't be able to have as much fun in the M3 on an early morning backroad rip, as the M2 or even my E46

Thanks

And if someone says Yes, and you go wrap the car around a tree then what. You are asking whether you can play with an M3 and not kill yourself, the generic answer is No. Unless you have Chris Harris skills and a track to execute them, then No.
All cars can be dangerous and the best of drivers can have a bad day, Randy Pobst who is a master driver wrecked a car and so did Chris, it happens...

I've had plenty of fun in my M3 but it is one the one car I've owned that I respect most. The F8x is the most powerful M3 built to date and it's throttle can be made an on/off switch....get some classes and enjoy the car at the track, should be loads of fun there. And regardless, same applies to the M2.

[Uponone76]

Looks like Sam prefers the M2 to the M3/M4. He even goes as far as to say the M2 is the best car in BMW's current lineup.......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esH3VV3_90Q

[W///]

Originally Posted by csbear

Well... I wouldn't go that far:

"Skip the M4, go directly to the M2, and collect $14,000."

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...t-drive-review

Not trying to spew hate, as I really like the M4, but just pointing out there are people who would. Although this thread is more about getting rid of the M3/M4 for an M2, so different circumstances in a way.

Both cars are great for their relative price points and it's a similar argument with the 911 and Cayman. Depends what you are looking for (as ASAP pointed out) and what your budget is....nothing more complicated than that.

It would be foolish to think there aren't guys going from an M3/4 to an M2. They've already moved to the M2 subforum. Not surprised at the responses, but that's to be expected considering the question is asked on an M3/4 subforum. Just like how so many current M3/4 owners are shooting down ZCP without even test driving one yet.

Originally Posted by Hazey82

Looking for honest feedback here. I switched from ordering the M2 to the M3 because the special bespoke engine and extra touches (seats, CF, mirrors, dome) but was always concerned that the potential to get playful with the M3 on twisty backroads or the track (just like Sam was from the Bimmerpost review vid) would be out of my league. My current E46 M3 I can push close to the limits and feel totally connected and be playful. From the review it seems this is easily achievable with the M2 even with MDM and its made me question my decision.

So the big question, can an average enthusiast driver get to those playful limits with an M3/M4 in euro MDM mode without worry of killing themselves or the car on a backroad like it looks like you can on the M2?
My concern is I won't be able to have as much fun in the M3 on an early morning backroad rip, as the M2 or even my E46

Thanks

Don't know what average enthusiast driver entails, as that's pretty broad, but I'd probably say no. If we are talking about the mountain roads in my neck of the woods, the F80 will be last choice compared to my E36 and E92. Too big and too much power. i'm sure it would do great at the track though.

If you handed me the keys to a Porsche GT4 and a Dodge Viper ACR and told me to do a mountain run, I'll pick the GT4 everyday of the week (I actually have driven that car up there and it shines).

Just my 2 cents.

[Blksnowflake]

Originally Posted by Uponone76

Looks like Sam prefers the M2 to the M3/M4. He even goes as far as to say the M2 is the best car in BMW's current lineup.......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esH3VV3_90Q

Not gonna lie and say I don't like it, it's incredibly attractive for sure especially in blue and vs the M4, I might actually like it a tiny bit more. I just don't like it for my purpose more than an M3/4.
It's a small car, it will feel more tossable and agile because of the smaller footprint, but it is the little sibling. The F8x is the middle sweet spot and then the M5/6 go all on power but with the refined touches for high way destroying.

If I just needed a second car for just me, to drive on the weekends and do track days, this would be the car. The power level is more inline with my experience and what I could reasonably manage. However, one thing is blatantly obvious at least to my ears, this cars sounds much better in stock form than the F8Xs and not as much of that obnoxious farting from the exhaust.

It will be a great car no doubt and great to have the smaller option in the M family, but the F8Xs which are "underpowered" in it's segment is holding it's own and even beating cars in it's segment. Could this car even be compared performance wise with a C63s Coupe or ATS-V Coupe, not even close. Different cars right, yeap, just like comparing this to an F8X.

[chillindrdude]

One can be "playful" without being at the limits. But playful and limits are relative. One's comfort zone can be another's white knuckle terror.

That said, I think, public roadways are not the place for one to explore those limits. I strongly encourage everyone buying any high performance car to do a track weekend with instruction. Even if its just one event for the rest of your life, you will gain immeasurable knowledge and best practices for car control.

[W///]

Originally Posted by chillindrdude

One can be "playful" without being at the limits. But playful and limits are relative. One's comfort zone can be another's white knuckle terror.

That said, I think, public roadways are not the place for one to explore those limits. I strongly encourage everyone buying any high performance car to do a track weekend with instruction. Even if its just one event for the rest of your life, you will gain immeasurable knowledge and best practices for car control.

Even worse when you are trying to explore the limits of an F80/2/3 IMO.

[Damasconian]

Both cars are great, and anyone who argues that is being unfair.

I can only speak for myself as a guy that's really clinging to the last 7 months of my 30's. I've got friends turning 40 left and right and I'm the last man standing. This is pure speculation, not even sure I believe it myself. But...

The M2 seems to simply be a more youthful car. Its smaller, has boy racer looks, less "stuff" to play with, and tells me it's probably going to be driven by guys 25-40. The M3/4 is a more mature car. It's more expensive and more substantial (size, speed, comfort, etc). I think the age group for the F80's are 28-50. I just cant see someone my age buying and driving an M2 as their main mode of transportation. As a second car, it may be perfect. As a DD, I couldn't do it.

But I have 2 toddlers & a 105lb dog. My priorities are much different than others.

From the front I think the M2 is better looking that the M4. From the rear I cant believe the same people that designed the front had a say in the rear. I just don't like it as much as the tighter looks of the M4.

Glad this car exists and I thank BMW for building it. Cant wait to see one on a track with us this year.

[Brosef]

I am glad BMW is making the M2. I think it's a great complement to the M3/4. Not different enough that it would make sense to have both (cough, hardly any weight savings), but it seems like it will be a fun little car.

Having said that, I have a bit of a bone to pick with those that call the M3 too much of a GT car. Anyone who owned the E92 (as did I), knows that this new chassis is a lot stiffer and handles immensely better. Sure, it's a few inches bigger, but it's lighter and the S55 is infinitely more effective on the road. Not to mention, it's the best looking car they've made aside from the E46m.

The M2 seems to only have a few things going for it, not all of which are always positives. The shorter wheelbase will certainly make it more lively, but despite what some might think, that won't improve overall handling and stability (this is the biggest driver of improved performance of the 991 vs. 997). The size is smaller, but it's almost just as heavy and meaningfully less practical. I also cringe looking at those fangs in the front bumper, but that's personal. It does seem to have a much purer exhaust sound - I wish the M3 sounded that smooth. And I love that they're offering both DCT and manual (I hope many get the manual as that's what this car's experience proposition is supposed to be all about).

Overall, I think it's a nice package. Expensive for what it is, but a well rounded package that doesn't take itself too seriously will make its owners happy. I'm eager to drive one. But I can't imaging getting one of theses over a Cayman.

[Brosef]

Originally Posted by Damasconian

Both cars are great, and anyone who argues that is being unfair.

I can only speak for myself as a guy that's really clinging to the last 7 months of my 30's. I've got friends turning 40 left and right and I'm the last man standing. This is pure speculation, not even sure I believe it myself. But...

The M2 seems to simply be a more youthful car. Its smaller, has boy racer looks, less "stuff" to play with, and tells me it's probably going to be driven by guys 25-40. The M3/4 is a more mature car. It's more expensive and more substantial (size, speed, comfort, etc). I think the age group for the F80's are 28-50. I just cant see someone my age buying and driving an M2 as their main mode of transportation. As a second car, it may be perfect. As a DD, I couldn't do it.

But I have 2 toddlers & a 105lb dog. My priorities are much different than others.

From the front I think the M2 is better looking that the M4. From the rear I cant believe the same people that designed the front had a say in the rear. I just don't like it as much as the tighter looks of the M4.

Glad this car exists and I thank BMW for building it. Cant wait to see one on a track with us this year.

I actually feel just the opposite. The rear seems clean to my eyes, but the front looks overdone and frankly awkward with its snub nose looks on such a short car. To each their own.

[CanAutM3]

Originally Posted by Hazey82

Looking for honest feedback here. I switched from ordering the M2 to the M3 because the special bespoke engine and extra touches (seats, CF, mirrors, dome) but was always concerned that the potential to get playful with the M3 on twisty backroads or the track (just like Sam was from the Bimmerpost review vid) would be out of my league. My current E46 M3 I can push close to the limits and feel totally connected and be playful. From the review it seems this is easily achievable with the M2 even with MDM and its made me question my decision.

So the big question, can an average enthusiast driver get to those playful limits with an M3/M4 in euro MDM mode without worry of killing themselves or the car on a backroad like it looks like you can on the M2?
My concern is I won't be able to have as much fun in the M3 on an early morning backroad rip, as the M2 or even my E46

Thanks

There is no way to exploit the performance limits of either the M4 or M2 on public roads and stay within the realm of a legally acceptable margin. Period.

To enjoy the true performance potential of either, they need to be driven on a track.

[Never Convicted]

Originally Posted by Uponone76

Looks like Sam prefers the M2 to the M3/M4. He even goes as far as to say the M2 is the best car in BMW's current lineup.......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esH3VV3_90Q

Sam has never driven a BMW he didn't think was great. He loved the M3/4, he loved the 228i, he loved the X6M, he loved the 7 Series fer chrissakes. The M2 is the shiny new toy. At least he's consistent.

[dmk08]

I considered it but in the end I decided to stay w/ my current M3 until 2017 and get an individual.

[Sedan_Clan]

Originally Posted by Hazey82

Looking for honest feedback here. I switched from ordering the M2 to the M3 because the special bespoke engine and extra touches (seats, CF, mirrors, dome) but was always concerned that the potential to get playful with the M3 on twisty backroads or the track (just like Sam was from the Bimmerpost review vid) would be out of my league. My current E46 M3 I can push close to the limits and feel totally connected and be playful. From the review it seems this is easily achievable with the M2 even with MDM and its made me question my decision.

So the big question, can an average enthusiast driver get to those playful limits with an M3/M4 in euro MDM mode without worry of killing themselves or the car on a backroad like it looks like you can on the M2?
My concern is I won't be able to have as much fun in the M3 on an early morning backroad rip, as the M2 or even my E46

Thanks

The M2 will rock you and insert you between two trees just like the F8X will. I implore you - just as others have - to get to a track and change your perspective. You're going about this the wrong way.

[Nothing]

Originally Posted by CanAutM3

There is no way to exploit the performance limits of either the M4 or M2 on public roads and stay within the realm of a legally acceptable margin. Period.

To enjoy the true performance potential of either, they need to be driven on a track.

Exactly. If you want a 2 door sports car that you can push on the streets legally, get a BRZ.

[W///]

Originally Posted by Brosef

I am glad BMW is making the M2. I think it's a great complement to the M3/4. Not different enough that it would make sense to have both (cough, hardly any weight savings), but it seems like it will be a fun little car.

Having said that, I have a bit of a bone to pick with those that call the M3 too much of a GT car. Anyone who owned the E92 (as did I), knows that this new chassis is a lot stiffer and handles immensely better. Sure, it's a few inches bigger, but it's lighter and the S55 is infinitely more effective on the road. Not to mention, it's the best looking car they've made aside from the E46m.

The M2 seems to only have a few things going for it, not all of which are always positives. The shorter wheelbase will certainly make it more lively, but despite what some might think, that won't improve overall handling and stability (this is the biggest driver of improved performance of the 991 vs. 997). The size is smaller, but it's almost just as heavy and meaningfully less practical. I also cringe looking at those fangs in the front bumper, but that's personal. It does seem to have a much purer exhaust sound - I wish the M3 sounded that smooth. And I love that they're offering both DCT and manual (I hope many get the manual as that's what this car's experience proposition is supposed to be all about).

Overall, I think it's a nice package. Expensive for what it is, but a well rounded package that doesn't take itself too seriously will make its owners happy. I'm eager to drive one. But I can't imaging getting one of theses over a Cayman.

You think so? I thought it's priced exactly where it should be. A fully loaded one comes out at $55k if I remember correctly (with a 6MT though), which leaves enough room for the M3/4, and just smokes the M235i in terms of value.

[BuzzE46]

At first I was contemplating on an M2, I did like it However I prefer my low mileage E46 M3 and enjoy it for now and ill upgrade to an M4 when my money is right. Plus the E46 M3 and M4 look light years away better then the M2

[SamS]

No, not even if my F80 was totaled today. With 2 small kids, I need the 4 doors. I wouldn't mind the lower price, but I really like my HUD, and the F80 interior. Yes, I'm a bit spoiled!

[Uponone76]

Originally Posted by Never Convicted

Sam has never driven a BMW he didn't think was great. He loved the M3/4, he loved the 228i, he loved the X6M, he loved the 7 Series fer chrissakes. The M2 is the shiny new toy. At least he's consistent.

Haha I'm with you on that. I remeber watching his review of the M235i in Vegas and he talked about it as if it was the greatest car ever.

Personally, I love the idea of the M2. When I decided to to sell my M235i it was originally to purchase the M2. But my lack of patience (and the talk of reusing the N55 engine) took over, I test drove the M4, and the rest is history.....

[Brosef]

Originally Posted by W///

You think so? I thought it's priced exactly where it should be. A fully loaded one comes out at $55k if I remember correctly (with a 6MT though), which leaves enough room for the M3/4, and just smokes the M235i in terms of value.

see, I think they should actually just get rid of the M235i and take a couple thousand off of the price. then let all those consumers trade up to the M2. I just don't like these half assed M models. they dilute the brand and make no sense to me.

is $55k fully loaded right? I thought you could option it to over $60k.

Originally Posted by BuzzE46

At first I was contemplating on an M2, I did like it However I prefer my low mileage E46 M3 and enjoy it for now and ill upgrade to an M4 when my money is right. Plus the E46 M3 and M4 look light years away better then the M2

bingo. I think the e46 M3 is the best looking BMW of all time. the F80 is next, to my eyes. I was an e92 owner, and I liked the looks but never loved them.

[nicknaz]

Originally Posted by W///

You think so? I thought it's priced exactly where it should be. A fully loaded one comes out at $55k if I remember correctly (with a 6MT though), which leaves enough room for the M3/4, and just smokes the M235i in terms of value.

$55k is right on top of other new 2dr cars like gt350 and definitely in range of used cars the next level up (z06, 997.1 TT, etc)

For the bmw lineup its priced right but for what else is out there, i think it is in a tough spot.

The other thing i have to wonder is that if the size of m car is so important why not just get an e30? $55k wil get you a nice one

[BuzzE46]

Originally Posted by Brosef

see, I think they should actually just get rid of the M235i and take a couple thousand off of the price. then let all those consumers trade up to the M2. I just don't like these half assed M models. they dilute the brand and make no sense to me.

is $55k fully loaded right? I thought you could option it to over $60k.



bingo. I think the e46 M3 is the best looking BMW of all time. the F80 is next, to my eyes. I was an e92 owner, and I liked the looks but never loved them.

I do agree, the m235i should prob have never existed and yes they do appear to dilute the M letter.
something about my E46 M3 makes me love it so much, maybe bcuz back in 2003 just seeing them gave me that WOW factor. how is the92 vs the e46, would you consider it an upgrade?

[BuzzE46]

has anyone seen the M2 around jersey? have yet to seen in NY, would like to drive by and see it in person lmaoo