Ever since the BMW M2 came out, people have been wondering how it compare – in terms of performance – with its bigger brother, the M4. Since the price difference is considerable, the comparison becomes even more interesting, especially for those looking for the ultimate M bargain. Looking at the specs, you’d think the performance difference should be noticeable as well, in favor of the M4.
The bigger car of the two comes with a brand new M-developed engine, dubbed S55. The 3-liter mill fitted with two turbochargers makes 431 HP and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque and features innovative measures that are aiming at offering the best reliability. Specially coated cylinders and new oil pumps make sure no matter what you do with this car you’ll have to work extra hard to cause it to fail.
On the other hand, the M2 uses an upgraded N55 engine that’s good for 370 HP and up to 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque with overboost. The N55 mill used for it also comes with some interesting changes compared to the standard version, used for the same purposes. The advantage of the M2 is that it is considerably smaller and a bit lighter.
Therefore, the race is on. The guys from Motorsport Magazine took an M2 around their test track at the Nevers Magny-Cours Club to see how it stacks up against the M4. Surprisingly – for some – the M2 was the faster car around their track. The reason behind this impressive result can be attributed to the fact that the M2 is lighter and therefore more nimble.
Considering the circuit they used features a lot of tight turns where the M4 doesn’t get to use its horsepower advantage and can’t really put down its horsepower efficiently, it makes sense for its little brother to be faster and more fun to drive. However, it would be a completely different story on a track with longer straight lines.
