Before You Buy a BMW M2: Generations, Variants, and Checks

Two generations, three engines, and a track-focused CS. What separates one BMW M2 from another, and how to buy the right one.

The BMW M2 has been the entry point to BMW’s M lineup since 2016, and that phrase undersells it: this is a compact, rear-wheel-drive coupe with genuine M hardware.^[1] But the badge covers two distinct generations and several engines, so the buying decision starts with which M2 you mean.

Which generation

The first-generation F87 (2016–2021) launched with the 365 hp N55 engine, while its Competition and CS versions used the twin-turbo S55 at 405 to 444 hp.^[1] The second-generation G87 (2023–present) runs the S58 twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six — 460 PS at launch, lifted to 480 PS in a 2025 refresh — and posts 0–100 km/h times around 4.1 to 4.3 seconds.^[1] The two generations were even built on different continents: Leipzig, Germany for the F87, San Luis Potosí, Mexico for the G87.^[1]

Spec-sheet details worth knowing

Current cars offer a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic, with torque at 550 N⋅m — rising to 599 N⋅m for 2025 automatics.^[1] Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), or 285 km/h (177 mph) with the M Driver’s Package.^[1] At the top of the range sits the M2 CS, rated at 523 hp.^[1] As with any M car, confirm exactly which variant and options a listing represents before you talk price.

The buying basics

Small M cars get driven hard, and that is fine — if the maintenance kept pace. Insist on full service records, and budget for a pre-purchase inspection at a shop that knows M engines. Check consumables: tires, brakes, and clutch on manual cars tell you how the car was used. Track days are not a red flag on their own, but undocumented ones are. Modified cars should come with receipts and, ideally, the original parts.

Compare every figure on the full BMW M2 database page, then see what is on the market now in live M2 listings.