In the world of performance coupes, few rivalries stir up as much enthusiasm as a sibling battle within the BMW M lineup. The 2025 BMW M2 and BMW M4 may share DNA, but their characters are far from identical. While both offer heart-pounding performance and BMW’s iconic M engineering, they appeal to different kinds of enthusiasts.
This in-depth BMW M2 vs M4 comparison covers specs, performance, drivetrain options, design differences, and price to help you choose your perfect M car.
Engine & Powertrain: Same Heart, Different Power
At the core of both the M2 and M4 lies BMW’s famed 3.0-liter S58 inline-six, enhanced by TwinPower Turbo technology. However, the outputs and configurations differ significantly.
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW M2 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 | 6-Speed Manual / 8-Speed Auto | 473 hp | 406 (Manual) / 443 (Auto) | RWD |
| BMW M4 Coupe | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 | 6-Speed Manual | 473 hp | 406 | RWD |
| BMW M4 Competition | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 | 8-Speed Auto | 503 hp | 479 | RWD |
| M4 Competition xDrive Coupe/Convertible | 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 | 8-Speed Auto | 523 hp | 479 | AWD |
The BMW M2 offers a traditional rear-wheel-drive setup and the choice between manual or automatic gearboxes. The M4 lineup, meanwhile, spans broader territory — from rear-drive to xDrive all-wheel drive, offering more power and body style flexibility, including coupe and convertible variants.
Performance Stats: On-Paper vs On-Track
While the M2 embraces old-school charm, the M4 delivers all-out speed and technology. Here’s how they compare when the rubber meets the road:
| Model | 0–60 mph | Top Speed | With M Driver’s Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| M2 Manual | 4.1 sec | 155 mph | 177 mph |
| M2 Auto | 3.9 sec | 155 mph | 177 mph |
| M4 Coupe | 4.1 sec | 155 mph | 180 mph |
| M4 Competition RWD | 3.8 sec | 155 mph | 180 mph |
| M4 Competition xDrive Coupe | 3.4 sec | 155 mph | 180 mph |
| M4 Competition xDrive Convertible | 3.6 sec | 155 mph | 174 mph |
The BMW M4 Competition xDrive is a force to be reckoned with, delivering supercar-like acceleration. However, the BMW M2 focuses more on driver engagement, offering that pure, RWD, heel-toe experience with near-perfect weight distribution.
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Size & Dimensions: Compact Muscle vs Grand Tourer
Though both are coupes, the M2 is smaller and more focused, while the M4 leans into grand touring.
| Model | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW M2 | 180.3 in | 74.3 in | 55.2 in | 108.1 in | ~3,850 lbs |
| BMW M4 Coupe | 189.1 in | 74.3 in | 54.8 in | 112.5 in | ~3,830–4,306 lbs |
The BMW M2 feels like a modern reincarnation of the classic performance coupe — compact, aggressive, and purposeful. Meanwhile, the M4 comes across as more refined, larger, and luxurious, with a bolder design thanks to its controversial vertical kidney grilles.
Interior & Tech: Shared DNA, Different Execution
Both M cars feature BMW’s iDrive 8.5, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and customizable drive modes. But the M4 adds a more premium touch with extra configurability and luxury finishes.
BMW M2 interior highlights:
- Optional Carbon bucket seats
- Harman Kardon audio
- M Drive buttons on steering wheel
- 3-zone climate control
- Manual or automatic transmission
BMW M4 interior upgrades:
- M Carbon or M Sport seats
- Flat-bottom steering wheel with red stripe
- Polished aluminum and optional Sensatec dash
- Heated steering wheel and more ambient lighting
The M4 also benefits from more rear legroom and luggage space, making it more practical for long-distance touring or daily use.
Pricing: Value vs Versatility
| Model | Starting MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|
| 2025 BMW M2 | $68,200 |
| M4 Coupe (Base) | $80,100 |
| M4 Competition Coupe | $84,300 |
| M4 Competition xDrive Coupe | $89,400 |
| M4 Competition xDrive Convertible | $96,200 |
| M2 CS (Upcoming) | $98,600 |
The 2025 M2 is the more affordable entry point, yet still delivers BMW M thrills. However, if you crave the full arsenal of power, luxury, and xDrive AWD, the M4 Competition or M4 CS models might be worth the price premium.
Conclusion: Which M Car Should You Choose?
The BMW M2 is the ultimate throwback to M car purists: rear-wheel drive, manual gearbox, and unfiltered joy in a compact package. It’s less about lap times and more about emotional connection.
The BMW M4, on the other hand, is your all-in-one performance GT. It’s faster, more versatile, and offers broader choices in powertrain and trim. If refinement and luxury matter as much as cornering precision, the M4 is the logical step up.
Verdict:
- Choose the BMW M2 if you want the rawest, most engaging M car on the market today.
- Go with the BMW M4 if you want power, presence, and daily usability without compromising speed.
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