New Baby M car takes on the road with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and fearless driving.
In 2022, the first-generation BMW M2 (G87) was met with some critiques regarding its design. However, its exceptional performance did not go unnoticed, as many considered it to be the top-performing M car produced by Munich’s engineers. As members of this crowd, we stand by our opinion, and a recent Nürburgring footage from Sport Auto serves as evidence for why we hold the M2 in high regard.The release of the G87 BMW M2 sparked controversy due to its unconventional styling. Despite this, the vehicle received widespread admiration for its superior driving capabilities, leading many to declare it the premier M car manufactured by the engineers at the Munich headquarters. Our team wholeheartedly agrees with this sentiment, and a Sport Auto video showcasing the M2’s prowess at the Nürburgring solidifies our stance.
The recorded time for the M2, 7:38.23, achieved by Christian Gebhardt from Sport Auto’s German publication, is marginally slower compared to BMW’s 7:33.90 lap set in the previous year. Although these timings are for the shorter version of the track, they still solidify the M2’s reputation as a capable and impressive vehicle. As we observe Gebhardt navigating through the countless turns in the Bimmer, it appears that he may be slightly cautious at times. This is understandable as no one wants to be responsible for any damage to someone else’s car on the most renowned road course globally.
With that being stated, the term “conservative” in this particular situation still holds the same meaning as it did before, with the car reaching speeds of 136 mph as it approaches the notorious crest on Quiddelbacher Hohe, which is the first significant straight on the Nordschleife. Although Gebhardt’s car doesn’t become airborne, it comes dangerously close. As he eases off the throttle, the car reaches a speed of 161 mph while navigating the subsequent straight, and he handles the high-speed left turn at Schwedenkreuz like a seasoned professional.
With the exception of a few tight bends, Gebhardt maintains a steady pace of at least 60 mph throughout his run, reaching a maximum speed of 174 mph on the main straight. It is likely that this particular M2 is fitted with the M Driver’s Package, which eliminates the standard 155-mph speed limit. According to BMW, without this package, the M2’s top speed is 177 mph, a record nearly matched by Gebhardt during his lap.
The G87 M2 currently stands equal to the M3 in terms of performance at the ‘Ring. It surpasses the speed of an Audi RS3 and comes close to matching the M4 Competition. It has been confirmed that BMW is developing a new M2 CS, with a potential release this year, leaving us wondering – just how much faster will it be on the official lap? The answer may come sooner than expected.
Source: Sport Auto / YouTube