The irony of the none comp cars not getting a proper M engine is that the N55 sounds way better. I do like the CS though. My local dealer has one in and when it’s parked next to the latest M cars, it highlights just how damn ugly the newest cars are.
Last year I had a Jag F-Type SVR absolutely loved it, and I ended up getting a base M2 as my "daily". Since having the M2 i ended up preferring that over the Jag even on weekend drives and I ended up selling the Jag and M2 for a manual M2C and have never been happier. The M2s are definitely going to be a well remembered legacy for BMW especially as BMW progresses into their current future.
Oh my, these are all dream cars. If you don't mind me asking, what is it about the high spec jag that made it inferior to the base M2? Second, how is the M2C as a daily? I've heard negative things about NVH and suspension being too stiff.
@@victormwendwa425 Jag was very fun on a straight but not much else (other than the awesome exhaust), also was not a fan of the suspension. The M2 I had was just way more fun on the back twisty roads, and the fact that there is a manual option made it far more appealing. Soon as I got the M2C i got the MSS Springs installed and that really helps with the M2's suspension. I had also tracked my M2 and I'm making plans to track my M2C soon. Jag to me at least didn't feel as fun on the track as the M2. M2/M2C is just a more fun car to toss around.
Same here! Also, those gold wheels would look really good on my blue M240i :) I think the CS is better looking, by a country mile, than any of the new M cars. With everything getting huge and looking like deranged angry locomotives these days, the M2 is really what the M3 was years ago. The current M3 and M4 seem more like a 5 series to me, in terms of size and luxury. The next gen M2, and then the comp versions, should be very interesting. Oh, and Jay, love the channel and the honest content. If you give a car a thumbs up, I feel fully confident it is a truly special vehicle.
Saying the N55 isn't an M engine when it's 90% same engine as the s55. And then following on saying the S55 doesn't sound very good.. Nothing wrong with the N55 in the og m2 it as the secondary oil pump fixed the issue of the n55.
I have always been a BMW M fan having owned 6 M3’s, but I never proceeded past my E92 M3 which I still have. The turbo era cars just never did it for me, as the non-linear power delivery and poor sound just left me cold. This car is the only M car made in the last several years I would really consider, and unfortunately these are now out of production. As sad as it is to say, especially with the new direction BMW is taking on styling, I probably will never buy another new BMW
I had an M2 Comp and sold it precisely because the sound was incredibly underwhelming inside the cabin and the audio pumped sound just made me feel like I was playing a racing sim rather than driving a real car. Not enough raw drama and too much manufactured drama for my tastes.
My friend and I used to own E90 M3s. Back then they were cheap cars and we liked them. But we looked at newer more powerful cars. Life happened and we no longer own those cars. We have driven all the new turbo charged m cars and they just arent as fun. Since then between the two of us have owned a fully track prepped 987 Cayman S, 6th gen Camaro SS 1LE, 991 911 Carrera, and Alfa Giulia Quadrofoglio. But we always use the E90 as a benchmark and we constantly talk about getting another E90. There are faster cars but imo the E9x M3 might be the best overall package. The amazing steering that no modem car has, incredible s65 engine, and motorsport gearing if you have a dct.
Agree totally. Driven BMWs as my main car for 35 years, last 2 manual E46 M3 (138k miles) & current manual E92 (115k miles). Won't buy another. Sticking.
@@velvetjones1856 good point! I had a brilliant long weekend driving / riding your roads there about 10 years ago. Although an American I live in Aberdeen, Scotland. There are nearly as many 911s here as M2s. Legacy of the oil industry maybe? Thanks for the feedback 👍
Best 😂, how many handling cars have you driven? 9 out 10 CS models are exclusively for parked in the garage. Those people only have skills to drive a 330i yet they buy a CS saying “it’s literally the best” ROFL
@@Tomoyo0827 i never quite get comments like this, because what exactly is implied here? in the price range it is placed at, any porsche mentioned is a decade old and DEFINITELY not at the same handling level while at that - and that is while removing all comfort on top. so what car are people referring to when they imply that there are other better handling cars in the same price range? comments like these fail to ever mention any examples, so im still awaiting an answer on this part
The S55 BMW engine was assigned to the M3 Competition and the M4 Competition. BMW fanboys complained that the M2 wasn't a proper M car so BMW gave in and built a M2 competition with the same engine. But not to annoy those who have already bought an M3 Competition and M4 Competition, BMW powered down the engine in the new M2 Competition. I've got one and put the hp back to what is near to it's big brothers - 550hp and 700Nm of torque all going to the back wheels. FRIGHTENING!
In Australia, these were $139900 when new and $35000 more than the M2 Competition. Now they’re $170000+ used which is almost the cost of a G80 M3 new. A very good review of a brilliant car. The smile on your face said it all. I would also like to hear your opinion of a 1M.
Okay So these are the cars I owned at all at once, ALL MANUALS Ferrari 360 modena Ferrari 3555 gts Lotus evora 400 991GT3 touring Audi R8 V10 E 46 M3 M2 competition (yes) M2 CS- a white one Shelby gt 350 R Honda civic type r Miata ND Now I always wanted to see which three cars I would keep forever- so I drove atleast 5000 miles in all except the 360 and 355 a couple thousand miles each. I also shared my cars with my friends and mechanic friends who understood handling better than just pure show. Our verdict was BMW M2 CS ( It owns the road and handles like a champ) Provides all the comfort and so much fun, you cannot explain the fun and pure practicality. Steering is playful but so much feedback from the road, so much more than even the evora hydraulic. Its an awesome combination of sports cars and creature comfort. Its difficult to believe but I always have so much fun speeding and the sharp handling. 991.2 GT3 TOURING ( too loud but the best engine ) 360 modena - most underrated Ferrari ever and its pure bliss to drive I also had m2 comp and the day I bought it i missed my m2 cs so much that i had to buy a second one because I thought it wasnt gonna be different. What I am trying to say is- This car is exceptional. This cars is FUN FUN FUN, But needs a good exhaust lol for sure. that would have made the package complete.
@@alangil40 Yes it is in terms of handling and steering 20 percent better for sure and key differences. I don’t care about the power as much. But you can mod you competition since you have to remember that m2 cs is basically an advanced competition with all its weaknesses corrected and body panels. Modify suspension, get steering wheel software cs or gts, get some gold wheels if you want, ECU flash the engine for more power. Forget the carbon body work . It’s gonna cost you 10 to 15 k more but you will reach 85 percent handling of CS. But stock from factory and production car makes it unique.
I fitted Bilstein B6 dampers to my M2 Comp which absolutely transformed the ride and handling. Yes it’s down on power and isn’t as ‘trick’ or as rare as the CS but in terms of B road driver enjoyment it’s hard to beat, with sharp turn in and a comfortable, premium feeling ride, much better than stock
Yeah, I'm really tempted to get the b16s for my M2c, but I'm not sure. The factory setup is really fun but it seems weird that it has so much pitch and roll (on track, street is fine) but is jittery at the same time. I havent been able to find much info on the b6s, do they feel like they perform better or do they make it more compliant?
I got a 911, It just works. On Circuit Zolder, Spa and Nurburgring. Did not have to change anything. I have had many ///M Cars and driven almost all of them. It's always something. Really got tired from BMW.
@@matthewjudge3763 after 5/6 months with them I’d say they do both. The ride is firmer but it doesn’t feel it because it’s no longer crashy. I find traction is improved too. Definitely a big improvement on road, especially when paired with some Eibach springs and the whole setup cost me about £800 I did consider B16 but I’ll rarely be on track if ever so couldn’t justify the initial outlay but I’ve haven’t read a bad review about them on M2 Owners UK
The biggest problem the M2 Comp was the suspension, too stiff when you dont want it to be, but Dynan modifies the M2 Comp by giving it softer suspension, they also did this with the N55 M2. This makes any M2 ride much better on road, while also making it faster on track (the stiff suspension was to make it seem more sporty). The changes from M2 Comp to M2CS are the adaptive suspension, engine tune, and the lightweight options (body panels, interior changes). However M2 CS has increased in price while Comp have depreciated, so my money would go to a used M2 Comp then go to Dynan for the softer suspension and engine tune (~500hp) and maybe some M Performance carbon body panels, except the carbon roof (a bit of a risky swap, supposedly installed by the dealer, but some dont want to it, since it might get installed badly).
One went past me on my local road I was doing 90 in my mini and I new the road i v had a few BMW But when I see this car and over take and disappear to God knows were it took my breath away I'm retired now and I want one incredible car watch this space
I'm unsure I'll ever buy a new car, but if I did the m2 is certainly in that discussion. I just prefer my 90s cars personally. 0 denying these are mega cool and certainly the m3 successor (as the m3 is the same size as older m5's)
I'm in the market for one of these. Here in Canada they are a lot cheaper then they are in the UK. I would have bought an RS3 however they are no longer sold here in my homeland. Anyway, giddy up.🥶
Thank you for sharing your experience. You are a great director. The soundtrack (very nice) is not always very connected to the image (of a much more relaxed drive). Well the effect of a real passion for cars persists and the description is really what indeed matters. I like.
I’ve always respected M cars, although always Audi Rs cars for personal preference. But I’d easily choose this over the vast majority of Rs or AMGs on sale today.
Ha, 2 3 cylinders with straight pipe. Literally what I had in my racecar. From the front it sounded like an angry monster with the S50 intake (ITB's), from the rear it sounded like a honda 1.4 with a big noise pipe.
M2s don’t have presence? You sure about that? CS looks like the comp bar a few subtle changes, so don’t understand how a CS has more presence than the other M2s.
I’ve seen the CS carbon hoods with the huge vent in real life and I must say, it does make a huge difference, aesthetically. Way more aggressive-looking.
Nonsense check how many used bmw are for sale globally....they are up there with the Japanese makes...that means there cars stay on the road....they sell less than Mercedes...the truth is they stuck to work on that's why mechanics say they are useless....
@@thomashorneman563 By suck to work on you mean stupid over engineered designs of impossible to get to plastic engine parts that bankrupt it's victim owner. You are correct that there sure are an awful lot for sale. There's good reasons for that.
@@CathodeRayNipplez tbf the n55 is proven to be a reliable engine the water pump needs replacing and the rubber seals but bar that their hasn’t been many issues and the s55 had a spun crank blown out of proportion but suffers with the same seals they aren’t the money put engines your thinking of
Did I see that right? It has 20,000 mile service intervals!? That surely has to be a huge warning for those looking at higher mile examples later down the line (if these ever get driven)
Um there rising in price so fast in the US its insane. Dreaming how? It is what it is a great car that is appreciating in value. Automotive journalists and the public at large love this vehicle. If they dont they haven't driven one. It is such a fun car.
I always liked BMW more than their German rivals and that's especially true of the M cars. The blue and gold combo on this one is definitely an excellent choice! Also like that this one is on Leeds plates which means it's originally local to me
I can’t decide between this and a cayman gts, but this should just has more practicality, some exclusive bits and a better package. In Europe competitions are around 25k less but I think this will hold up value wise better. Nice problem to have thanks for helping!
If you know front engine, RWD well, definitely test drive a Cayman. They feel way different with the engine in the middle and you'll be able to tell right away which you prefer. Also if you don't need the seats for practicality but just space, the Cayman is surprisingly roomy with the rear hatch and front trunk. Between the two though, I'd go M2CS if that's the choice. I think I'd go Cayman GT4 over M2CS but the M2 is more special than "just" a Cayman GTS imo.
@@dsher503 I bought an M2 CS as I have kids and this way I get to use it more. It’s immense, absolutely transformed from even the m2 comp in my view. The last classic M car?
@@tjlazr That's awesome! Congrats and I'm jealous. I think you are right. I've owned an E46 M3 but the only modern BMW I would consider is the M2CS or a 1M.
BMW M swan song as we know it, and remember it. Yes the new M2 will be faster but I don’t think it’ll be as easy on the eye. I’m not really one for new cars, but the M2C was the first new car I ever bought. I then got a CS allocation and knew it would be limited but not as limited as it turned out to be. 450 1M, 422 M3 CSL (another car I own and prefer) came to the U.K. It does make some 100 or so rather rare indeed.
BS. i had both, the original M2 is boring to drive and doesn't pull. doesn't drive like an M car. good car for somebody that needs to have that M badge but without really understanding what it is about. The M2 Comp and especially the CS are completely different animals
The early M2 is one of the few modern cars I'd consider buying, but the prices are a bit silly for a now 6 year old car. Also, coming from an FN2 I'm not sure the sound would be enough. My K20 sound still gives my goosebumps 10 years on. It' seems modern cars all sound a bit naff IMO.
Had mine 4 years n55 is phenomenal, sounds great and with a map and a couple of bits pulls like a train. Best car I’ve owned (came from a 981 Cayman S and driven many 911s etc was a porsche fan before the little m spoiled the party! 🤣)
Hi James, I honestly can't wait to watch a review of a stock 1M Coupe by yourself. I know it doesn't go like this CS, it doesn't stop like a CS and to be a weapon needs upgrades, but...for me, it's not about that. I would love to have one. You may love it or you may hate it, kill one of my myths and show us it's just an overpriced car with a fake aura. Greetings from the Canary Islands.
Why does BMW always feel the need to add add add and grow grow grow? I think this will hold very well because the new 2 series non-M is already a 4,5 meters car which is e90 size if I recall correctly, the 4 series has also grown a lot and yet both seem to be less spacious on the inside than the f80 and f22 plus they come with x drive that I sincerely don't need when driving at 6 tenths. I know the interior feels bland but if cars like this got much more expensive I don't even think the regular m2 would be sold here in Spain. Lovely video as always
@@DaleSteel The thing is that BMW and Mercedes are marketing leaders and segment openers. There is a Renault coupe SUV because of them. BMW just got forced to turn the 1 series into front wheel driven chassis because of the a-class getting bigger and bigger. Audi also went this way some time ago and then filled the gap again with the A1. I get that they sell better, but I struggle to understand the use of a CLA being 4,5 meters.
@@DaleSteel Hey I may not be righ(which is probable because I dont work for any car company) but you have to learn to argument and discuss. I know audis are on FWD platforms but they also grew the A3 which was the point of that statement.
What tires are you running? If it's cup 2s the steering feel will be impacted with the hard rubber. It definitely has enough feel of the road coming through when the tires are warm.
Unfortunately from a financial point of view I passed on one when offered a car by bmw. But I still don’t get it. An M2 comp tastefully modified would get you to the same level. And I would still rather have a V8 M3 for the engine… and for that money you can get a GT4 !!! Not sure it makes sense at all bar for the die hard bmw collector.
I own a LHD twin of this car. All of of the same options. I paid $93.5K for mine here is Florida. Current market price: $120K. Expensive? Yes. But so it everything else. I just paid $179K for an M3 CRT. My M2CS is definitely NOT inferior to the CRT. I also think that the M2CS is an overall better car than the 1M. Very special car indeed.
My Main issue with my M2 Comp was the steering feel and 2NH brake feel, but those factors are both fixed more or less in the M2 CS. It's definitely a great car!
Always found with the M2's that you're constantly trying to wrestle the rear end of the car during fast drives, which for some is what they want, however it's not as good as being a precision tool like the cayman is. Nonetheless happy a car like the M2 CS exists as there really isn't any other new sports coupe that offers an almost muscle car experience.
@@jackal2513 oh absolutely agreed. I’m no professional but was more the steering wheel feedback which made it harder to drive it more precise, oh and that absolute gem of an engine just being so torquie out of corners
As nice as a CS is, I'd imagine it's possible to get a M2 or M2 Comp as sorted as a CS with some Team Schirmer bits, full alignment, remap and an equal length mid section to making it sound smooth like a real straight 6
Bavarian MOTOR Works have been making "real straight 6" since the '30's, won 1940 Mille Miglia. They made 2006 COTY redundant when they turbocharged it, putting 300 bhp. in something the size of a Civic, NO competition! I asked a tech. what he thought, he said, "It's a beast!", now Toyota buy modern equivalent. So why void factory warranty on aftermarket tuner special?
This is a great car but I sold it and bought a 2022 Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0. The Porsche is superior as it is a more precise car to drive, in my opinion. The sound of that naturally aspirated flat six right behind you is intoxicating and the manual transmission in the Porsche is better than the BMW’s. The CS doesn’t sound great and the interior, while better than other M2’s, still looks a little cheap. Overall, the CS is a fun car and probably a little faster than the Porsche. This is the best of BMW though and probably one of the best M cars ever made!
If it’s better than the M2C then it can only be a fantastic car. Although a lot of £££ over one of those. As you say, they should have preferential depreciation though…
90k for a compact BMW? I don't think so, there some beautiful cars available for that sum and beautiful is not a word that can be applied to this car, but another interesting review.
The engine looks like it's made out of plastic not a good sight when you open the bonnet considering it's going to get ragged around a lot blown in 60 seconds lol 😆
With the carbon ceramics it's way better. I have driven M2CS with and without CCB'S, and the CCB'S are way more sprightly, more steering feel. The normal irons are in between but still better than M2C, in part because the carbon roof makes the chassis stiffer so steering response is better. The best way I can describe it is that because the M2C is too stiffly spring it jitters and as it gets light, you lose steering feel. m2CS with CCB'S keeps the wheels on the ground so way better steering feel.
The irony of the none comp cars not getting a proper M engine is that the N55 sounds way better.
I do like the CS though. My local dealer has one in and when it’s parked next to the latest M cars, it highlights just how damn ugly the newest cars are.
@Sam Court - N55+comfort mode+DSC short press (MDM)=burbles which sound awesome on a stock exhaust.
Damnit James you're spoiling us with good contents these few days, I took a hit on my productivity.
That comment. It's up there with my porn comment lol
@@wolf.9440 what an odd thing to say.
@@Pete_1986 who asked you?
@@wolf.9440 that isn't how the RUclips comments section works. I don't have to be asked anything, I'm free to comment.
Last year I had a Jag F-Type SVR absolutely loved it, and I ended up getting a base M2 as my "daily". Since having the M2 i ended up preferring that over the Jag even on weekend drives and I ended up selling the Jag and M2 for a manual M2C and have never been happier. The M2s are definitely going to be a well remembered legacy for BMW especially as BMW progresses into their current future.
Oh my, these are all dream cars. If you don't mind me asking, what is it about the high spec jag that made it inferior to the base M2? Second, how is the M2C as a daily? I've heard negative things about NVH and suspension being too stiff.
M2C with the S55 is definitely a big step up from the base M2! Cant wait to sell my auto for the manual aswell 😋
@@victormwendwa425 Jag was very fun on a straight but not much else (other than the awesome exhaust), also was not a fan of the suspension. The M2 I had was just way more fun on the back twisty roads, and the fact that there is a manual option made it far more appealing.
Soon as I got the M2C i got the MSS Springs installed and that really helps with the M2's suspension. I had also tracked my M2 and I'm making plans to track my M2C soon. Jag to me at least didn't feel as fun on the track as the M2. M2/M2C is just a more fun car to toss around.
Hopefully you added a VRSF downpipe, chargepipe, imtercooler and a BM3 tune... It becomes a monster
Isn't BEV successor rumored to be 1,000 bhp? Or more.
I love my M240i, can only imagine how awesome this M2 CS is to drive!!
Same here! Also, those gold wheels would look really good on my blue M240i :) I think the CS is better looking, by a country mile, than any of the new M cars. With everything getting huge and looking like deranged angry locomotives these days, the M2 is really what the M3 was years ago. The current M3 and M4 seem more like a 5 series to me, in terms of size and luxury. The next gen M2, and then the comp versions, should be very interesting. Oh, and Jay, love the channel and the honest content. If you give a car a thumbs up, I feel fully confident it is a truly special vehicle.
A good friend of mine bought one and let me take a few laps on track with the car. It's a brilliant car, I have to say.
Having owned a 2020 M4 Comp and a 2022 M4 Comp I can say without a doubt the driving satisfaction in the M2 CS is worth it!
Saying the N55 isn't an M engine when it's 90% same engine as the s55. And then following on saying the S55 doesn't sound very good.. Nothing wrong with the N55 in the og m2 it as the secondary oil pump fixed the issue of the n55.
All the other M cars were given the proper S engines, think that's what he meant.
What like the 1M
I have always been a BMW M fan having owned 6 M3’s, but I never proceeded past my E92 M3 which I still have. The turbo era cars just never did it for me, as the non-linear power delivery and poor sound just left me cold. This car is the only M car made in the last several years I would really consider, and unfortunately these are now out of production. As sad as it is to say, especially with the new direction BMW is taking on styling, I probably will never buy another new BMW
I had an M2 Comp and sold it precisely because the sound was incredibly underwhelming inside the cabin and the audio pumped sound just made me feel like I was playing a racing sim rather than driving a real car. Not enough raw drama and too much manufactured drama for my tastes.
@@ehhhh9287 You could've disabled ASD and added an equal length midpipe, both would've been really worth it.
My friend and I used to own E90 M3s. Back then they were cheap cars and we liked them. But we looked at newer more powerful cars. Life happened and we no longer own those cars. We have driven all the new turbo charged m cars and they just arent as fun. Since then between the two of us have owned a fully track prepped 987 Cayman S, 6th gen Camaro SS 1LE, 991 911 Carrera, and Alfa Giulia Quadrofoglio. But we always use the E90 as a benchmark and we constantly talk about getting another E90. There are faster cars but imo the E9x M3 might be the best overall package. The amazing steering that no modem car has, incredible s65 engine, and motorsport gearing if you have a dct.
@@ehhhh9287 I could be wrong but couldn't you have turned those artificial sounds off with an obd plug in?
Agree totally.
Driven BMWs as my main car for 35 years, last 2 manual E46 M3 (138k miles) & current manual E92 (115k miles).
Won't buy another. Sticking.
I liked my 2018 M2. It had a special interior carbon package. Traded it for my current 991.2 Carrera which was a bucket list car for me.
Which is more fun to drive? I am considering trading my 997 for an M2. 🤔
@@chriscarbaugh3936 I always wanted a 911 and feel it is a more unique car. M2 looks like most other BMWs. You don't see a lot of 911s in Arkansas.
@@velvetjones1856 good point! I had a brilliant long weekend driving / riding your roads there about 10 years ago.
Although an American I live in Aberdeen, Scotland. There are nearly as many 911s here as M2s. Legacy of the oil industry maybe? Thanks for the feedback 👍
The m2 cs is kind of like a budget gt4rs cayman, the best of the best when it comes to lightweight coupes.
What I like the most from your reviews is the honesty of your comments! Big thumbs from a dude from Colombia (South America!). Saludos!!
I love this car. The looks and noise - it’s got the “want one” factor for me. Usefully lighter than the new G80 M3/M4 too.
I've got an OG M2 and whilst a far cry from the fully fettled M2CS or M2 C, it still strikes me as one of the best handling cars in its price range.
Best 😂, how many handling cars have you driven? 9 out 10 CS models are exclusively for parked in the garage. Those people only have skills to drive a 330i yet they buy a CS saying “it’s literally the best”
ROFL
@@Tomoyo0827 Quite a few actually. And I don't own a CS so can't comment how it handles.
@@Tomoyo0827 i never quite get comments like this, because what exactly is implied here?
in the price range it is placed at, any porsche mentioned is a decade old and DEFINITELY not at the same handling level while at that - and that is while removing all comfort on top.
so what car are people referring to when they imply that there are other better handling cars in the same price range?
comments like these fail to ever mention any examples, so im still awaiting an answer on this part
The S55 BMW engine was assigned to the M3 Competition and the M4 Competition. BMW fanboys complained that the M2 wasn't a proper M car so BMW gave in and built a M2 competition with the same engine. But not to annoy those who have already bought an M3 Competition and M4 Competition, BMW powered down the engine in the new M2 Competition. I've got one and put the hp back to what is near to it's big brothers - 550hp and 700Nm of torque all going to the back wheels. FRIGHTENING!
What mods/tune are you running?
The comps where running 450hp right
Id love one of these handsome little cars, not something one can say about many current BMWs
In Australia, these were $139900 when new and $35000 more than the M2 Competition. Now they’re $170000+ used which is almost the cost of a G80 M3 new. A very good review of a brilliant car. The smile on your face said it all. I would also like to hear your opinion of a 1M.
Okay So these are the cars I owned at all at once, ALL MANUALS
Ferrari 360 modena
Ferrari 3555 gts
Lotus evora 400
991GT3 touring
Audi R8 V10
E 46 M3
M2 competition (yes)
M2 CS- a white one
Shelby gt 350 R
Honda civic type r
Miata ND
Now I always wanted to see which three cars I would keep forever- so I drove atleast 5000 miles in all except the 360 and 355 a couple thousand miles each. I also shared my cars with my friends and mechanic friends who understood handling better than just pure show.
Our verdict was
BMW M2 CS ( It owns the road and handles like a champ) Provides all the comfort and so much fun, you cannot explain the fun and pure practicality. Steering is playful but so much feedback from the road, so much more than even the evora hydraulic. Its an awesome combination of sports cars and creature comfort. Its difficult to believe but I always have so much fun speeding and the sharp handling.
991.2 GT3 TOURING ( too loud but the best engine )
360 modena - most underrated Ferrari ever and its pure bliss to drive
I also had m2 comp and the day I bought it i missed my m2 cs so much that i had to buy a second one because I thought it wasnt gonna be different.
What I am trying to say is- This car is exceptional.
This cars is FUN FUN FUN, But needs a good exhaust lol for sure. that would have made the package complete.
That is one hell of a garage! Are you saying the M2 CS is that much better than the M2 Comp?
@@alangil40 Yes it is in terms of handling and steering 20 percent better for sure and key differences. I don’t care about the power as much. But you can mod you competition since you have to remember that m2 cs is basically an advanced competition with all its weaknesses corrected and body panels. Modify suspension, get steering wheel software cs or gts, get some gold wheels if you want, ECU flash the engine for more power. Forget the carbon body work .
It’s gonna cost you 10 to 15 k more but you will reach 85 percent handling of CS. But stock from factory and production car makes it unique.
you need to find a place for skidding the car(s).
It's an M2 cs, skidding is mandatory if you want to make a video about it.
I fitted Bilstein B6 dampers to my M2 Comp which absolutely transformed the ride and handling. Yes it’s down on power and isn’t as ‘trick’ or as rare as the CS but in terms of B road driver enjoyment it’s hard to beat, with sharp turn in and a comfortable, premium feeling ride, much better than stock
Yeah, I'm really tempted to get the b16s for my M2c, but I'm not sure. The factory setup is really fun but it seems weird that it has so much pitch and roll (on track, street is fine) but is jittery at the same time. I havent been able to find much info on the b6s, do they feel like they perform better or do they make it more compliant?
I got a 911, It just works. On Circuit Zolder, Spa and Nurburgring. Did not have to change anything. I have had many ///M Cars and driven almost all of them. It's always something. Really got tired from BMW.
@@matthewjudge3763 after 5/6 months with them I’d say they do both. The ride is firmer but it doesn’t feel it because it’s no longer crashy. I find traction is improved too. Definitely a big improvement on road, especially when paired with some Eibach springs and the whole setup cost me about £800
I did consider B16 but I’ll rarely be on track if ever so couldn’t justify the initial outlay but I’ve haven’t read a bad review about them on M2 Owners UK
@@_BitJager_ yea this or a 911 that’s the argument
@@rscholey85 - 911 any day, I had so much bullshit with BMW dealerships. I even kicked out my daily BMW. Panamera SportT could arrive any day.
i own this car and love it but you HAVE to add some proper exhausts, then it sounds great, making it pretty much perfect
The biggest problem the M2 Comp was the suspension, too stiff when you dont want it to be, but Dynan modifies the M2 Comp by giving it softer suspension, they also did this with the N55 M2. This makes any M2 ride much better on road, while also making it faster on track (the stiff suspension was to make it seem more sporty).
The changes from M2 Comp to M2CS are the adaptive suspension, engine tune, and the lightweight options (body panels, interior changes). However M2 CS has increased in price while Comp have depreciated, so my money would go to a used M2 Comp then go to Dynan for the softer suspension and engine tune (~500hp) and maybe some M Performance carbon body panels, except the carbon roof (a bit of a risky swap, supposedly installed by the dealer, but some dont want to it, since it might get installed badly).
True. I have the comp. Suspension is really stiff. Awesome car though
My dream car right there.
One went past me on my local road I was doing 90 in my mini and I new the road i v had a few BMW But when I see this car and over take and disappear to God knows were it took my breath away I'm retired now and I want one incredible car watch this space
I'm unsure I'll ever buy a new car, but if I did the m2 is certainly in that discussion. I just prefer my 90s cars personally.
0 denying these are mega cool and certainly the m3 successor (as the m3 is the same size as older m5's)
Great as always. You do need to drive a 1M.
I'm in the market for one of these. Here in Canada they are a lot cheaper then they are in the UK. I would have bought an RS3 however they are no longer sold here in my homeland. Anyway, giddy up.🥶
M2 cs is much more fun then the rs3
@@Orryv However the RS3 is all wheel drive.
I saw one in my quiet town a month or two back and I really couldn’t believe it I nearly broke my neck
Thank you for sharing your experience.
You are a great director. The soundtrack (very nice) is not always very connected to the image (of a much more relaxed drive). Well the effect of a real passion for cars persists and the description is really what indeed matters.
I like.
To answer the video title just from looking at it , then most definitely YES!
Love the CS, definitely the best that BMW has made in a long while. Would be a dream to own one
I’ve always respected M cars, although always Audi Rs cars for personal preference. But I’d easily choose this over the vast majority of Rs or AMGs on sale today.
Ha, 2 3 cylinders with straight pipe. Literally what I had in my racecar. From the front it sounded like an angry monster with the S50 intake (ITB's), from the rear it sounded like a honda 1.4 with a big noise pipe.
I have a 2018 M2 with the DCT and LCI. I'll never sell it. I also have a Tesla for around town duties.
M2s don’t have presence? You sure about that? CS looks like the comp bar a few subtle changes, so don’t understand how a CS has more presence than the other M2s.
I’ve seen the CS carbon hoods with the huge vent in real life and I must say, it does make a huge difference, aesthetically. Way more aggressive-looking.
as owner of both, i can certainly say that the CS looks much, much better and has more presence
Pity about it's built in planned obsolescence. Good with low miles and for a short time tho. Then flip.
Not even that , this review must be old their 80k with 500 miles on the clock, bearing in mind how the used market prices are inflated as it is 😂
Nonsense check how many used bmw are for sale globally....they are up there with the Japanese makes...that means there cars stay on the road....they sell less than Mercedes...the truth is they stuck to work on that's why mechanics say they are useless....
@@thomashorneman563 By suck to work on you mean stupid over engineered designs of impossible to get to plastic engine parts that bankrupt it's victim owner. You are correct that there sure are an awful lot for sale. There's good reasons for that.
@@CathodeRayNipplez tbf the n55 is proven to be a reliable engine the water pump needs replacing and the rubber seals but bar that their hasn’t been many issues and the s55 had a spun crank blown out of proportion but suffers with the same seals they aren’t the money put engines your thinking of
Why is it already a concern if they are only 2 years old? are they having reliability issues?
Did I see that right? It has 20,000 mile service intervals!? That surely has to be a huge warning for those looking at higher mile examples later down the line (if these ever get driven)
I think it’s 20,000 miles OR 2 years whichever comes first. I doubt people actually drive these cars for 20k miles.
@@dogchainsaw3923 Yikes! They are huge service intervals, I’m surprised BMW recommend that!
Clicked on this video, very very quickly
Damn people are dreaming at those prices. Nice video. Love the blue and gold wheel combo. Keep up the good work.
Um there rising in price so fast in the US its insane. Dreaming how? It is what it is a great car that is appreciating in value. Automotive journalists and the public at large love this vehicle. If they dont they haven't driven one. It is such a fun car.
Amazing timing with Demuro having just reviewed the M240i
A twin turbo bullet proof inline 6 making over 400 HP is impressive, and I imagine a whole lotta fun!
I always liked BMW more than their German rivals and that's especially true of the M cars. The blue and gold combo on this one is definitely an excellent choice! Also like that this one is on Leeds plates which means it's originally local to me
The last good looking "compact" BMW
My mate here in Oz has one I’ve driven it I love it.
But I don’t think it steers as well as my 1 M coupe
Superb review, as always.
I can’t decide between this and a cayman gts, but this should just has more practicality, some exclusive bits and a better package. In Europe competitions are around 25k less but I think this will hold up value wise better. Nice problem to have thanks for helping!
If you know front engine, RWD well, definitely test drive a Cayman. They feel way different with the engine in the middle and you'll be able to tell right away which you prefer. Also if you don't need the seats for practicality but just space, the Cayman is surprisingly roomy with the rear hatch and front trunk. Between the two though, I'd go M2CS if that's the choice. I think I'd go Cayman GT4 over M2CS but the M2 is more special than "just" a Cayman GTS imo.
@@dsher503 I bought an M2 CS as I have kids and this way I get to use it more. It’s immense, absolutely transformed from even the m2 comp in my view. The last classic M car?
@@tjlazr That's awesome! Congrats and I'm jealous. I think you are right. I've owned an E46 M3 but the only modern BMW I would consider is the M2CS or a 1M.
BMW M swan song as we know it, and remember it. Yes the new M2 will be faster but I don’t think it’ll be as easy on the eye. I’m not really one for new cars, but the M2C was the first new car I ever bought. I then got a CS allocation and knew it would be limited but not as limited as it turned out to be. 450 1M, 422 M3 CSL (another car I own and prefer) came to the U.K. It does make some 100 or so rather rare indeed.
BMW didn’t fix the engine with the Comp and CS. They instead made it worse. The original M2 is what you want.
The non M engine then? :D
Exactly 😁
@@matthewjones5910 You clearly haven't heard an N55!
Exactly 💯
BS. i had both, the original M2 is boring to drive and doesn't pull. doesn't drive like an M car. good car for somebody that needs to have that M badge but without really understanding what it is about. The M2 Comp and especially the CS are completely different animals
Ah must be local to me then. That’s the road from Glamis to the A90. Fun road even in my OG M2.
Yeah hes been up there doing the ferrari video.
A great car for sure but worth the extra over a M2 Comp?
The early M2 is one of the few modern cars I'd consider buying, but the prices are a bit silly for a now 6 year old car. Also, coming from an FN2 I'm not sure the sound would be enough. My K20 sound still gives my goosebumps 10 years on. It' seems modern cars all sound a bit naff IMO.
I’m a big Honda fan and love the sound and engagement of the K20 but it’s hard to go back when you experience the shove of an in-line 6 turbo engine.
A bmw straight six sounds better than a k20 imo
Had mine 4 years n55 is phenomenal, sounds great and with a map and a couple of bits pulls like a train. Best car I’ve owned (came from a 981 Cayman S and driven many 911s etc was a porsche fan before the little m spoiled the party! 🤣)
@@maxfrederick7703 wow better than a 981 CS, some high praise
@@maxfrederick7703 very interesting!!
🤞 for a 1M review, the only M I really, really desire.
Whoever ordered that car nailed it with the paint and rims.
What a great review! Thank you
Thanks J!
That's an awful lot of money for a small car, but seems pretty special.
Hi James, I honestly can't wait to watch a review of a stock 1M Coupe by yourself. I know it doesn't go like this CS, it doesn't stop like a CS and to be a weapon needs upgrades, but...for me, it's not about that. I would love to have one. You may love it or you may hate it, kill one of my myths and show us it's just an overpriced car with a fake aura. Greetings from the Canary Islands.
Why does BMW always feel the need to add add add and grow grow grow? I think this will hold very well because the new 2 series non-M is already a 4,5 meters car which is e90 size if I recall correctly, the 4 series has also grown a lot and yet both seem to be less spacious on the inside than the f80 and f22 plus they come with x drive that I sincerely don't need when driving at 6 tenths. I know the interior feels bland but if cars like this got much more expensive I don't even think the regular m2 would be sold here in Spain. Lovely video as always
The size usually appeals to the casual buyer. Car enthusiasts unfortunately tend to be a minority
@@DaleSteel The thing is that BMW and Mercedes are marketing leaders and segment openers. There is a Renault coupe SUV because of them. BMW just got forced to turn the 1 series into front wheel driven chassis because of the a-class getting bigger and bigger. Audi also went this way some time ago and then filled the gap again with the A1. I get that they sell better, but I struggle to understand the use of a CLA being 4,5 meters.
@@DaleSteel Hey I may not be righ(which is probable because I dont work for any car company) but you have to learn to argument and discuss. I know audis are on FWD platforms but they also grew the A3 which was the point of that statement.
@@DaleSteel that's an interesting point. You mean cars tend to grow and bulk because the emissions requirements get softer with weight increases?
@@DaleSteel "more allowance with UE emissions rules"
Chris Harris changed the suspension of his M2CS from stock to Bilstein! Eventually is this more satisfying to you Jay :-)
Welcome back to Scotland 🏴👍
Oh the irony that the M2 with the worst engine is the best sounding one, but this M2 CS is THE M2 to have for sure :) ❤️
Get an M2C. Throw some bilsteins on it. Remap stage one to 500bhp. Maybe throw some Michelin Cup 2’s if you want to track it. Voila.
What tires are you running? If it's cup 2s the steering feel will be impacted with the hard rubber. It definitely has enough feel of the road coming through when the tires are warm.
Super sports
Perfect timing with Doug DeMuro
Jay is much better than Doug. IMO
@@mikehertz6507 for sure
Unfortunately from a financial point of view I passed on one when offered a car by bmw. But I still don’t get it. An M2 comp tastefully modified would get you to the same level. And I would still rather have a V8 M3 for the engine… and for that money you can get a GT4 !!! Not sure it makes sense at all bar for the die hard bmw collector.
I own a LHD twin of this car. All of of the same options. I paid $93.5K for mine here is Florida. Current market price: $120K. Expensive? Yes. But so it everything else. I just paid $179K for an M3 CRT. My M2CS is definitely NOT inferior to the CRT. I also think that the M2CS is an overall better car than the 1M. Very special car indeed.
@@wayneg910 actually, I had no problem with the premium over the M2C. I felt that it was a very fair value.
That's a lovely car James, defiantly the best ever BMW!
The best would be the 3.0 CSL and without defiance.
Lumley Den road there. Seen quite a few offs on those bends, all motorcycles, once me. :-)
Great work
136 / 5 000
Get to see now ... If I remember correctly from The Grand Tour, Jermey Clarkson liked this car a lot. Okay, it got low scores, but still.
Bloody hell,a car you like.... 😅😅 Maybe you should ask the owner for a go in his 1M ....
Can you now drive an n55 OG one on UK roads? Preferably one that’s been breathed on a bit.
I am sure he already has reviewed an early M2 awful ACS wheels. I might well spend too much time round here...
@@TroyHR123 hence I said on UK roads and a bit breathed on.
Oh please! The 1M next? Looking to get one, and would value your opinion on it
Nice video Jay. So, is the owner going to let you in the 1m as a comparison?
Yes. Yes it is.
Have you driven a good example of a 1m?
My Main issue with my M2 Comp was the steering feel and 2NH brake feel, but those factors are both fixed more or less in the M2 CS. It's definitely a great car!
Always found with the M2's that you're constantly trying to wrestle the rear end of the car during fast drives, which for some is what they want, however it's not as good as being a precision tool like the cayman is. Nonetheless happy a car like the M2 CS exists as there really isn't any other new sports coupe that offers an almost muscle car experience.
It can drive like that but if your inputs are more economical/accurate it will drive with more precision and neatness
@@jackal2513 oh absolutely agreed. I’m no professional but was more the steering wheel feedback which made it harder to drive it more precise, oh and that absolute gem of an engine just being so torquie out of corners
@@ajames718 yeah shame it doesn’t have a bit more feel through the wheel
I've always rated the Pilot SuperSports, much better grip and feel the the Pilot Sport 4
The new Pilot Sport 5S is coming soon, so we’ll see what kind of magic Michelin builds into those tires
But a pointless model once the PS4S became available...as JayEmm insinuated.
As nice as a CS is, I'd imagine it's possible to get a M2 or M2 Comp as sorted as a CS with some Team Schirmer bits, full alignment, remap and an equal length mid section to making it sound smooth like a real straight 6
CS will hold its value much better. In fact prices are rising sharply. You spend the money up front but get it back and then some when you sell.
Bavarian MOTOR Works have been making "real straight 6" since the '30's, won 1940 Mille Miglia. They made 2006 COTY redundant when they turbocharged it, putting 300 bhp. in something the size of a Civic, NO competition! I asked a tech. what he thought, he said, "It's a beast!", now Toyota buy modern equivalent. So why void factory warranty on aftermarket tuner special?
@@thisisrob8750 Like original 1M, which was criticized for being parts bin special, some parts!
One of 33, w Carbon brakes 🤤
This is a great car but I sold it and bought a 2022 Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0. The Porsche is superior as it is a more precise car to drive, in my opinion. The sound of that naturally aspirated flat six right behind you is intoxicating and the manual transmission in the Porsche is better than the BMW’s. The CS doesn’t sound great and the interior, while better than other M2’s, still looks a little cheap. Overall, the CS is a fun car and probably a little faster than the Porsche. This is the best of BMW though and probably one of the best M cars ever made!
Could you test the I30N facelift please?😌
JayEmm's workrate is UNEQUALLED in this RUclips videos game!
That's a lot of $$$ for that car. As you say, there are plenty of cars at that price to choose from.
Test drive an OG on uk roads 👀
If it’s better than the M2C then it can only be a fantastic car. Although a lot of £££ over one of those. As you say, they should have preferential depreciation though…
The next csl
Someone please lend a 1M and a v10 M5 touring for jayemm to review. Would be interested to see what he thinks of both cars.
90k for a compact BMW? I don't think so, there some beautiful cars available for that sum and beautiful is not a word that can be applied to this car, but another interesting review.
Compact ? It’s the size of the e46 m3
The engine looks like it's made out of plastic not a good sight when you open the bonnet considering it's going to get ragged around a lot blown in 60 seconds lol 😆
How’s the steering and suspension vs the M2 Comp? I recall you finding the M2 competitions steering a let down.
Steering not much improved. Suspension feels more compliant but very hard to tell as different roads a long time apart
With the carbon ceramics it's way better. I have driven M2CS with and without CCB'S, and the CCB'S are way more sprightly, more steering feel. The normal irons are in between but still better than M2C, in part because the carbon roof makes the chassis stiffer so steering response is better.
The best way I can describe it is that because the M2C is too stiffly spring it jitters and as it gets light, you lose steering feel. m2CS with CCB'S keeps the wheels on the ground so way better steering feel.
Hell yeah!
Not worth it in Australia at $175000 for a 2020. Brand new M3 Comp x-drive $190000, that's what I'd buy.
but don't forget we are paying $260k on a Porsche 718 gt4. They are similar price in UK and US.
I think I'd just go get the M2 Comp
A great car 🤙👍
Yes it is...
Is it worth the extra Gibs over a comp??
See you next Tuesday special
one day David will get a 911 ........
Iirc from original reviews: good car, too expensive. Only for the Chris Harris's of the world 😂