[M2Mikey]

Hey all!

Looking for feedback on the new G87 M2CS...

I have one on order and I am very excited for it to be built and arrive, I am however having second thoughts...

I am planning on using the car for the road and track. I live close to Road America and think the new CS will be a very good car for the track with minimal mods.

I will probably only do 3-4 track events per year and will be driving the car on the street occasionally.

My intentions are to get the car and do the following to it to prepare it for the track:
1. Square Set of 19x11 Wheels from PHD Racing with 305 tires...probably Maxxis VR1
2. Vorshlag Camber Plates
3. SRF Brake Fluid w Track Pads
4. Grill guards for oil cooler

I have owned several cars in the past that I have run at Road America and hope this M2CS feels special at the track.

I previously owned:
2007 C6 Z06
2016 GT350R
2023 ZL1 1LE

I enjoyed the GT350R the most even though the ZL1 1LE was faster. I am not concerned about ultimate lap times, however I want the car to stay cool without losing performance in the heat.

I never considered a G87 M2 at all until this year I was at Road America for a track event and a friend of mine had a new G87 M2 he just purchased. It had the carbon pack with the carbon buckets and I fell in love. He let me take it for a spin and I was very impressed. His is a manual.

I was having problems with cooling with my 2023 Civic Type R. The Type R is fun, but does have cooling issues that were not completely addressed with the redesign and an upgraded radiator I installed. Just frustrating to be down an estimated 40-50 hp because of heat when the car only has 315 hp to start with! I do enjoy driving the car on track and it is very cheap to run. I purchased the Civic Type R because I was getting tired of the expense of running a high horsepower, heavy car at Road America. (Tires, Brakes, insurance)...and now I'm considering a 3770lbs. 523 HP car...funny right?

My friend mentioned that the M2 was getting a CS version and I should check it out. Once I saw pictures of the CS, I fell in love! I was disappointed to see that there was not a manual version available. After reading that the Manual Transmission just does not have the torque capacity, the reasoning made sense. I was concerned the automatic would not respond to requested upshifts and downshifts quick enough and may even overheat.

After looking at what Jackie Ding at PHD Racing is doing with his G87, it sure puts me at ease that this platform is pretty solid.

Bottom line, $100K is A LOT of money for a car and I just hope the new M2CS provides special feels on the track for that kind of money. I hope that the M2CS will be quick on track with the minor mods I am planning.

Most importantly, I hope the M2CS feels as special as some of the other cars I have owned.

What are your thoughts? I would love to hear feedback from those who have tracked their G87 M2s, it sure seems like this platform is built to perform on track!

[Tag]

ohh boy

[ChipXpert]

Originally Posted by M2Mikey

Hey all!

Looking for feedback on the new G87 M2CS...

I have one on order and I am very excited for it to be built and arrive, I am however having second thoughts...

I am planning on using the car for the road and track. I live close to Road America and think the new CS will be a very good car for the track with minimal mods.

I will probably only do 3-4 track events per year and will be driving the car on the street occasionally.

My intentions are to get the car and do the following to it to prepare it for the track:
1. Square Set of 19x11 Wheels from PHD Racing with 305 tires...probably Maxxis VR1
2. Vorshlag Camber Plates
3. SRF Brake Fluid w Track Pads
4. Grill guards for oil cooler

I have owned several cars in the past that I have run at Road America and hope this M2CS feels special at the track.

I previously owned:
2007 C6 Z06
2016 GT350R
2023 ZL1 1LE

I enjoyed the GT350R the most even though the ZL1 1LE was faster. I am not concerned about ultimate lap times, however I want the car to stay cool without losing performance in the heat.

I never considered a G87 M2 at all until this year I was at Road America for a track event and a friend of mine had a new G87 M2 he just purchased. It had the carbon pack with the carbon buckets and I fell in love. He let me take it for a spin and I was very impressed. His is a manual.

I was having problems with cooling with my 2023 Civic Type R. The Type R is fun, but does have cooling issues that were not completely addressed with the redesign and an upgraded radiator I installed. Just [...]

There are other threads that ask this exact question.

Only you can decide.

[blue135]

Nearly everybody suffers from Buyers Remorse at some point or another but only you can weigh the varying priorities associated with the factors important in your judgement.

[xxyion]

It's hard to say because noone has theirs yet. That being said I do personally think that for a track and road car, it's hard to beat the M2CS for the money. For a variety of reasons.

1. It's still an M2 and can take advantage of the wide range of aftermarket that is available for the car.
2. Comparable sports cars for the same money right now are the Lotus Emira which a lot of people say isnt quite as good of a track car as it is a road car, and a Porsche Cayman S which they stop making next month. The former has a terrible dealer network and less support and the latter is more expensive and the aftermarket is a good 2x the price of the BMW.
3. The F87 M2CS was a fantastic car and added some things a lot of people wish the F87C had, but overall it was met with positive reviews.
4. It WILL be the best sports car that BMW will have in its lineup. The Power of an M3 with the smaller package of the M2.

I think you cant go wrong with the choice based on what you've said. And realistically the price difference between a fully specced M2 vs the CS is really not a ton. Mine is coming out to be around 83k before taxes. For only about 25k more you get the CS. There was a part of me that kinda wanted to just say screw it and drop the extra money.

[mbar]

You will be able to upgrade regular M2 to CS level for less money. It’s not like the 1LE package where the deal is a steal.
However, I can assume that CS devaluation will be better.

[xxyion]

Originally Posted by mbar

You will be able to upgrade regular M2 to CS level for less money. It’s not like the 1LE package where the deal is a steal.
However, I can assume that CS devaluation will be better.

I get that this is a totally valid argument. But there are some of us that dont want to bother with tuning and the subsequent loss of warranty that comes with it. While I do agree, there are some trim levels which transform the car to another level compared to the CS, I still think the CS is worth the money.

[BOEING]

I have an M3CS and got an allocation for a M2CS.
I can attest that the M3CS is a totally different car than a regular G80. I also had a G80 so I can speak to that.
I am almost sure that the M2CS will be the same a much different car than a regular M2.
I know a number of people will disagree.
I think it is worth the extra $20k.
I am so looking forward to collecting mine which I have speced with CCB.

[digitldlnkwnt]

Originally Posted by Tag

ohh boy

🍿I got the popcorn…

[mbar]

Originally Posted by xxyion

I get that this is a totally valid argument. But there are some of us that dont want to bother with tuning and the subsequent loss of warranty that comes with it. While I do agree, there are some trim levels which transform the car to another level compared to the CS, I still think the CS is worth the money.

1. Time is money. So getting a turn key product has a value.
2. I think that the important upgrades (aftermarket or actual CS) are not more HP as the stock engine is already a monster. No doubt that CS handling upgrades will be superior and are more important. If one has the extra cash , then by all means go for the CS…and get an AP brake kit so you don’t destroy the CC on track

[M2PDX]

Originally Posted by mbar

You will be able to upgrade regular M2 to CS level for less money. It’s not like the 1LE package where the deal is a steal.
However, I can assume that CS devaluation will be better.

M2Mickey:

My take (sorry it is so long, and I'm not trying to be snarky) :

Get your popcorn ready.

You are NOT going to able to magically turn a regular M2 into a CS in your garage with a laptop, a bad internet connection, and a 10 mm wrench.

Can you do some software upgrades? ($300-$500, which then might put your warranty at risk). Yup.

Can you add engine and transmission mounts from the M4 CSL? ($798 + installation). Yes, but you probably won't.

Can you add expensive custom M2 CS specific BMW tuned shocks and struts? ($3,500+ if and when they become available at your dealer). Maybe, but you probably won't.

Can you adjust the camber by installing camber plates to improve front end steering feel, which you'll probably spend months trying to get fine tuned? ($650 + install). Sure. (Been there, done that).

Can you try to do whatever other magical tricks and little adjustments the BMW M engineers have done to get the car to set a Nurbergring track record? I seriously doubt any of us can figure that out.

Can you spend $4,895 (at Bimmerplug, just for the part before painting) for a quality aftermarket carbon fiber duck tail trunk lid? Yes, but people will know it's fake.

Can you add the $4,979.96 (at Turner Motorsports right now) 827M lightweight bronze 1000M wheels? Sure.

Can you spend $2,132 for a set of Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires which come at no cost on the CS? Yes you can!

Can you order an M2 with the full $9,995 carbon package so you have the lightweight seats and roof. Yup.

Congrats!!!

You've just spent more than $30,000 (parts and labor) on top of the base M2 price.... It's simple math.

But you still don't have an M2 CS. You'll have what I have and what many of us have on this forum: an expensively modded M2 that is cool, but isn't perfect, isn't rare, and may be worth LESS than a fully stock M2 in 5-10 years. (People don't like buying heavily modded cars because they assume they've been abused).

So, my perspective... Just go ahead and buy the real deal.

That's my plan.

[ChipXpert]

Originally Posted by xxyion

I get that this is a totally valid argument. But there are some of us that dont want to bother with tuning and the subsequent loss of warranty that comes with it. While I do agree, there are some trim levels which transform the car to another level compared to the CS, I still think the CS is worth the money.

The CS is a great option. It just doesn't have a manual and for some of us, that is a deal breaker.

[rk95]

Sold my G87 for a 2018 350R. If the 350R is a baseline 10/10 for cornering and driving feel, the G87 was a 5/10. Based on your previous car ownership, I don’t think the G87 has what you’re looking for in a vehicle. You had 3 pinnacle vehicles with a screaming V8 and heavy driver focus. If I’ve learned anything over my time here with having an F82 and G87, BMW just slaps a tune (some may same they don’t even do that) on the model and upsells. I think the last of the true era of special was the G82 CSL, and if I were you I’d be eyeing that. Everyone has an opinion though

[JABCAT]

I'm not a fan of the new gen Corvette, but for $100k - $110k buy a C8 Z06 that will completely destroy an M2 CS on track. If you want to play with awd, buy an ERay which will equally destroy an M2 CS on track.

[M2PDX]

Originally Posted by JABCAT

I'm not a fan of the new gen Corvette, but for $100k - $110k buy a C8 Z06 that will completely destroy an M2 CS on track. If you want to play with awd, buy an ERay which will equally destroy an M2 CS on track.

Lol.... JAB..... it's already been discounted $10 k before it has been driven off the lot. It will lose another 30% in year one. And it was the Z06 with the expensive Z07 package that set a 7:11 time in Germany. That's not this one.

There's nothing unique or valuable about these.

[JABCAT]

Originally Posted by M2PDX

Lol.... JAB..... it's already been discounted $10 k before it has been driven off the lot. It will lose another 30% in year one. And it was the Z06 with the expensive Z07 package that set a 7:11 time in Germany. That's not this one.

There's nothing unique or valuable about these.

That's the point - they're heavily discounted & much faster around a track, which is what the OP wants. And no it won't lose another 30% in year one.

[M2PDX]

Originally Posted by JABCAT

That's the point - they're heavily discounted & much faster around a track, which is what the OP wants. And no it won't lose another 30% in year one.

We'll in that case, he should definitely purchase a Chevrolet.

He can head over to the Chevypost.com site for all the latest info.

[M2Mikey]

Thank you everyone for your feedback! It is helpful. I do appreciate everyone taking the time to give your opinions to a BMW newbie like me!

I owned a 2010 X5M for a couple years and race an E30 which is my only BMW ownership experience! Looking forward to this M2!

I considered the C8 Z06 Z07, but prices are around $135-140K for a car set up the way I want and is only a 2 seater...although having a targa top is pretty sweet, I would sell my S2000 then. I would love to hear from those who have or have had a C8 Z06 and your thoughts on them!

I also was considering a Cayman GT4 or GT4RS, but those are priced much higher than a M2CS with a full factory warranty. I haven't driven a GT4RS, but have rode in a couple. Needless to say I was impressed and would definitely be the one I would get if prices were closer to where they started when it was first released ($145K). GT4RS with minimal options are now around $180K+. I have driven a 2020 GT4 with a manual with buckets and love that car. I have been trying to buy a 2020 GT4 with a manual and buckets for the original sticker price ($115K ish) and they are not willing to sell at that price. They want around $15k over sticker on a 5 year old car with no warranty. I think the driving experience is better than an M2 for sure, but with no warranty and pricing over sticker on a used car that has been tracked I can't bring myself to pay $130K for it!

Honestly, what sold me on the G87 M2 in general was sitting in one with the bucket seats. These seats sit low (Plenty of room for a helmet!) and hold you in while lapping. I love the seating position in these cars! I think these BMW buckets are as good as those in the GT Porsches with great usability. Please don't think the only reason I am getting an M2 is because of the seats, but it certainly got me looking at them!

My other cars I ran at the track did not have perfect seating position, but were much better than the majority of cars.

The C6 Z06 sat high with a very cramped interior, but also weighted 700 + lbs. less with similar hp. I ended up putting in different seats that sat lower than stock, but were not racing seats. It was an acceptable solution, but not ideal. Anyone who runs a C6 Corvette knows the pain of trying to find seats that will fit properly in these cars.

The GT350R had acceptable factory Recaro seats, but these sat slightly higher than ideal. I put in OMP HTE-R race seats, and then it was not very usable for the street, but great on track.

The ZL1 1LE Recaros were okay and even had cooling and heat built in. I didn't keep this car long. I think I only ran 3 HPDE events in it. It was fast at the track but I just never really loved the car.

Sitting in a car with a comfortable, low position with plenty of helmet room really makes the driving experience much more enjoyable on track without having to change to dedicated race seats.

The main reason I finally decided to pull the trigger on an M2CS is because of the feedback from Jackie Ding at PHD Racing. After messaging with him regarding the engine cooling, transmission, and capability of this G87 platform out of the box, it is very appealing! It seems as though these G87's are built for the track as delivered. A bit more factory adjustability for the suspension and it would be perfect. It is rare to find a factory turbocharged car that can pound laps without significant power degradation when outside temps are warm. It also appears the factory brakes (with a fluid and pad upgrade) are very durable.

Right now I am planning on keeping my 2023 Civic Type R. These cars are very enjoyable on track despite their FWD configuration. The steering, shifting, braking, and seating positions are so good in these cars. They have enough power to surprise plenty of High HP cars even on a track like Road America. I am making changes to help keep the car cool and not pull power when it gets warm. I still like a manual transmission and this will scratch that itch if I miss it with the M2.

Bottom line, I hope this new M2 CS is truly special. I hope there is indeed a bit more feedback from the car and it is enjoyable to drive at the track.

Thank you again everyone for taking the time to comment!

Mike

[M2Mikey]

Originally Posted by rk95

Sold my G87 for a 2018 350R. If the 350R is a baseline 10/10 for cornering and driving feel, the G87 was a 5/10. Based on your previous car ownership, I don’t think the G87 has what you’re looking for in a vehicle. You had 3 pinnacle vehicles with a screaming V8 and heavy driver focus. If I’ve learned anything over my time here with having an F82 and G87, BMW just slaps a tune (some may same they don’t even do that) on the model and upsells. I think the last of the true era of special was the G82 CSL, and if I were you I’d be eyeing that. Everyone has an opinion though

I loved my 2016 GT350R! Amazing car! All the feels for sure! My concern was the engine...my car was getting close to out of warranty and I simply was not comfortable owning the car out of factory warranty. A $30K engine replacement out of warranty was not appealing to me. Mine had minimal problems, just a hot start issue with the starter when tracking. This was resolved with a starter replacement and heat shielding to prevent this. That car felt so alive! Enjoy it! I miss mine everyday.

[ChipXpert]

Originally Posted by JABCAT

I'm not a fan of the new gen Corvette, but for $100k - $110k buy a C8 Z06 that will completely destroy an M2 CS on track. If you want to play with awd, buy an ERay which will equally destroy an M2 CS on track.

No back seat.
Less practical.

There are plenty of cars that beat an M2 on the track, but are you racing or out there to have fun?

[xxyion]

The 718 GT4 is a FANTASTIC car. I owned one for the better part of a year. Unfortunately it was a lemon and so Porsche bought it back. But honestly, if it wasnt, I wouldnt even be here. It's such a good car.

Personally though I do think the BMW buckets are better than that generation of LWBS from Porsche. More comfortable, more adjustability and breath way better.

[M2Mikey]

Originally Posted by xxyion

The 718 GT4 is a FANTASTIC car. I owned one for the better part of a year. Unfortunately it was a lemon and so Porsche bought it back. But honestly, if it wasnt, I wouldnt even be here. It's such a good car.

Personally though I do think the BMW buckets are better than that generation of LWBS from Porsche. More comfortable, more adjustability and breath way better.

What kind of issues did you have?