The new BMW M2 (G87) is one of the hottest sports coupes on sale today — compact, powerful, rear-wheel drive, and unapologetically old-school in an increasingly digital performance world. But with a starting price of over $66,000, the question has to be asked: is this really the smartest way to spend your enthusiast dollars?
Because for that kind of money, the used M market opens up a world of possibilities — from raw, analog legends to twin-turbo icons that arguably deliver more performance, character, and excitement for less cash.
Let’s take a look at some of the BMW M cars you could own instead of buying a brand-new M2, and why one of them might actually be the Ultimate Driving Machine.
The F87 M2 Competition — The Purist’s Choice
If you love the new M2’s idea but not its price (or added weight), the previous-generation M2 Competition might be your perfect match.
Built from 2019–2021, the F87 M2 Competition takes everything enthusiasts adored about the original M2 and adds the engine from the M3/M4 — a 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six (S55) pushing out 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It’s compact, loud, perfectly balanced, and offers that tight, mechanical feel BMW has been slowly losing over the years.
Many hardcore fans actually prefer it to the new G87, saying it’s purer, lighter, and more engaging, with sharper feedback and less electronic intervention. And the best part? Clean examples are trading hands for around $45,000–$55,000, depending on mileage — saving you thousands while getting you arguably the better driver’s car.
The F80 M3 and F82 M4 — Twin-Turbo Legends
Want to move up a class? For about the same price as a new M2, you can get into one of the most iconic modern M cars ever built — the F80 M3 sedan or F82 M4 coupe.
Both share the same S55 engine as the M2 Competition but add more practicality, presence, and performance tuning potential. The F80 M3 gives you four doors and everyday usability, while the M4 offers a more dramatic, wide-shouldered coupe stance.
With 425 to 444 horsepower (depending on trim), these cars deliver serious speed — 0–60 mph in the low 4s — while still offering that classic BMW rear-drive balance. The DCT dual-clutch transmission remains one of the quickest and most satisfying gearboxes BMW ever built.
Used prices? You’ll find solid examples between $40,000–$55,000, meaning you could skip the new M2 entirely and enjoy a car that was BMW’s flagship performer just a few years ago.
The E90/E92 M3 — The Last Naturally Aspirated V8
If you crave something truly special, it’s hard to beat the E9X M3 generation (2008–2013), the last M3 to feature a naturally aspirated V8.
Its 4.0-liter S65 engine revs to a screaming 8,400 rpm, delivering one of the most intoxicating soundtracks in automotive history. It makes 414 horsepower, and while it’s not the quickest in a straight line by modern standards, it’s pure magic from behind the wheel.
Every gear change, every rev, every corner feels like a moment. It’s the kind of emotional connection that’s increasingly rare in modern cars.
The catch? Maintenance. You’ll need to budget for rod bearings, throttle actuators, and regular inspections — but enthusiasts agree it’s worth every penny. Prices range from $30,000 to $45,000 for well-kept examples. For that, you’re buying a piece of BMW M history.
The M240i — Modern Performance, Everyday Usability
Maybe you don’t need the M badge at all. The M240i (especially the 2017–2021 F22 generation) might just be the hidden gem in BMW’s lineup.
Powered by the B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, it makes 335 horsepower and delivers smooth, effortless performance with one of the best sounds in BMW’s modern era. Add the available xDrive all-wheel drive and eight-speed ZF automatic, and you get a mini-GT car that’s just as fun as it is practical.
You can find one for around $30,000–$40,000, and with a simple tune, it can easily outrun a stock M2 in a straight line.
Depreciation, Personality, and the “M” Factor
The new G87 M2 might be the latest and most advanced iteration, but it also carries the weight — literally and figuratively — of modern BMW design. It’s heavier, pricier, and arguably less raw than the models that came before.
Meanwhile, used M cars like the F80 M3, F82 M4, and F87 M2 Competition deliver that signature BMW balance of agility, power, and involvement — but at a lower cost and with most of their depreciation already behind them.
And if you’re chasing the sound and soul of a naturally aspirated era, the E92 M3 stands in a class of its own.
The Verdict: Save the Cash, Buy the Legend
There’s no denying the new BMW M2 is a phenomenal car — fast, capable, and packed with modern tech. But sometimes, progress comes at the expense of personality.
For $66,000, you could get a used M2 Competition, a V8-powered E92 M3, or even an F80 M3 sedan — cars that arguably deliver more of the driving purity BMW built its reputation on.
So ask yourself: do you want the newest Ultimate Driving Machine, or the most authentic one?
For many enthusiasts, the answer might be sitting on the used lot, waiting for its second act.
