I had the opportunity just before the latest lockdown to borrow my mates BMW M2 competition for a test drive.
Certainly a nice looking car, opened the door and immediately it felt typical Germanic. Solid, well built and with lots of promise especially when I spotted a real handbrake and a six speed manual gearbox so often replaced by flappy paddles. Seat felt supportive and very comfortable as I settled into driving mode. A few things to sort out then the car burbled into life, this version has an upgraded exhaust and intake system which sounded good.
Clutch felt light considering the type of car and performance pushed me back into the seat every time I hit the accelerator. Engine being three litre six with twin turbos was responsive if a little harsh when nearing the rev limit. What surprised me was that my RS had more grunt in the mid range and my engine felt smoother overall. Bumps and potholes were just smoothed over and the suspension never felt crashy or hard even though it has been lowered. It never felt like a rear wheel drive car more like four wheel drive and even when spinning the rear wheels on a damp road I always felt in total control probably due the the electronics. Had a long drive and I must admit I was reluctant to give it back.
At around 45k for the std M2 competition with discount it seems incredible value for money and on a totally different planet to the Toyota Yaris I test drove a few weeks ago its a shame that the M2 has now been discontinued.
The question is would I change the RS for one well I have to say yes should the funds become available.
Certainly a nice looking car, opened the door and immediately it felt typical Germanic. Solid, well built and with lots of promise especially when I spotted a real handbrake and a six speed manual gearbox so often replaced by flappy paddles. Seat felt supportive and very comfortable as I settled into driving mode. A few things to sort out then the car burbled into life, this version has an upgraded exhaust and intake system which sounded good.
Clutch felt light considering the type of car and performance pushed me back into the seat every time I hit the accelerator. Engine being three litre six with twin turbos was responsive if a little harsh when nearing the rev limit. What surprised me was that my RS had more grunt in the mid range and my engine felt smoother overall. Bumps and potholes were just smoothed over and the suspension never felt crashy or hard even though it has been lowered. It never felt like a rear wheel drive car more like four wheel drive and even when spinning the rear wheels on a damp road I always felt in total control probably due the the electronics. Had a long drive and I must admit I was reluctant to give it back.
At around 45k for the std M2 competition with discount it seems incredible value for money and on a totally different planet to the Toyota Yaris I test drove a few weeks ago its a shame that the M2 has now been discontinued.
The question is would I change the RS for one well I have to say yes should the funds become available.