BMW M2 vs M4: Which M Car Is the Better Buy?
Summary
The BMW M2 is the spiritual successor to the E46 M3: compact, tossable, and focused. The M4 is bigger, faster, and more GT-oriented. The F87 M2 Competition (2019-2021) uses the same S55 engine as the F82 M4 but in a shorter, lighter chassis. The G87 M2 (2023+) and G82 M4 share the S58 engine. For driver engagement, the M2 wins. For straight-line speed and daily comfort, the M4.
Comparison
F82/F83 M4
n=153 sold12-mo +7.7%
- Avg Price
- $49k
- Range
- $23k – $96k
- Avg Mileage
- 42,294
- Manual Premium
- -15%
- Avg Bids
- 33
F87 M2
n=145 sold12-mo +3.9%
- Avg Price
- $49k
- Range
- $31k – $86k
- Avg Mileage
- 28,140
- Manual Premium
- +17%
- Avg Bids
- 30
G82/G83 M4
n=47 sold12-mo +14.2%
- Avg Price
- $99k
- Range
- $54k – $162k
- Avg Mileage
- 14,450
- Manual Premium
- -42%
- Avg Bids
- 37
How to Choose
- Size preference: the M2 is compact and direct. The M4 has more room and a longer wheelbase.
- Both share engines within their generation: F87 M2 Comp has the F82 M4's S55, G87 M2 has the G82 M4's S58.
- The M2 holds value better due to limited production and enthusiast demand. The M4 depreciates faster.
- For track use, the M2's shorter wheelbase and lighter weight give it an edge on technical circuits.
- The M4 is the better grand tourer with more refinement, space, and tech at highway speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the M2 better than the M4?
- For pure driving engagement, yes. The M2 is smaller, lighter, and more tossable. The M4 is faster in a straight line and more comfortable for longer trips. They share the same engine within each generation, so the difference is chassis character.
- Which BMW M car holds its value best?
- The M2 holds value better than the M4 due to lower production numbers and enthusiast demand. The M2 CS and M4 GTS are the standout appreciating models. Manual-transmission examples of both command strong premiums.
- Is the M2 Competition the same engine as the M4?
- Yes. The F87 M2 Competition (2019-2021) uses the S55 twin-turbo inline-6 from the F82 M4, detuned from 425hp to 405hp. The earlier F87 M2 (2016-2018) used the N55 single-turbo which is a different engine.
- Should I get a manual or DCT M2/M4?
- Manual transmissions command a 10-20% premium at resale and offer a more engaging driving experience. The DCT (F-series) and automatic (G-series) shift faster and are better for commuting. If you track the car or value driver engagement, get the manual.
- How much does a BMW M2 cost?
- F87 M2 (2016-2018, N55): $38K-$50K. F87 M2 Competition (2019-2021, S55): $50K-$65K. G87 M2 (2023+, S58): $55K-$70K. The M2 CS commands $90K-$120K as a limited-production collector piece.
Methodology and sources
Based on 372 sold listings from the last 2 years across Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, Collecting Cars, and other auction and marketplace sources. Prices are normalized to USD. Typical ranges show the 5th–95th percentile of sold prices. Stats update daily.
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