Compact, rear-driven BMW M coupe — the manual, six-cylinder enthusiast's modern M3.
Launched in 2016, the F87 M2 returned BMW M to its compact rear-driven roots, using a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six (initially N55) and offering a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT. The M2 Competition followed in 2018 with the S55 twin-turbo six (shared with the M3/M4) producing 410 PS (405 bhp), and the M2 CS closed the run in 2020 with 450 PS, an adaptive M suspension and carbon-fibre exterior trim.
The F87 is widely regarded as a return to form for BMW M and the most enthusiast-focused modern M car of its generation.
Last compact, manual, rear-driven BMW M coupe — already a recognised modern classic, particularly in CS form.
| Variant | Years | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| M2 (N55) | 2016–2018 | — | 370 PS; original launch car. |
| M2 Competition | 2018–2021 | — | 410 PS S55 engine; widened cooling, revised chassis. |
| M2 CS | 2020–2021 | 2,200 | 450 PS, adaptive M suspension, carbon fibre exterior trim. |
Start with identity, paperwork and originality. For the BMW M2 (F87), the strongest cars have continuous ownership history, matching numbers where applicable, original books and tools, factory build documentation and evidence of work by manufacturer-approved specialists. M2 CS, Hockenheim Silver / Long Beach Blue colours, manual gearbox and original wheels.
S55 (Competition / CS) is robust but check for VANOS service evidence and aftermarket tune history. A proper pre-purchase inspection includes cold-start behaviour, ECU diagnostics and fault-code history (where applicable), leak-down or compression testing, underbody photography, suspension and chassis inspection, brake condition and a long enough road test to expose heat-related faults. Deferred maintenance on a car of this class is almost always more expensive than buying a better-sorted example.
Use a paint-depth gauge, lift access and a specialist familiar with the model's factory panel gaps and finish standards. Collector value is dramatically affected by structural repairs, refinished panels, poor paintwork and missing factory trim or option content. Documented cosmetic refresh is acceptable; concealed accident or fire damage must be priced severely.
Manual gearbox, CS and Competition specifications; full BMW Service History and original colour combinations. Specification, colour, options and limited-build variants move values significantly. Buy the best-documented example in the most desirable specification you can justify, rather than a tired example of a rarer derivative that will need years of corrective work.
Regional ranges authored independently — each reflects its local market, not an FX conversion
Budget annually even if the car is used sparingly. Fluids age, tyres and date-coded rubber components must be replaced regardless of mileage, and stored cars need exercise. A documented maintenance rhythm protects both reliability and resale value.
BMW dealer and a strong network of M-specialists; routine service is realistic at independent rates. Before purchase, confirm parts availability for model-specific bodywork, electronics, gearbox and engine components. A discounted car waiting on unobtainable parts or a factory service slot is rarely a saving in collector ownership.
Each region quoted in its local currency — independent market readings, not FX conversions
M2 CS has separated firmly from the Competition; manual cars in Hockenheim Silver and Long Beach Blue are the most desirable. Competition manuals are firming as the last manual six-cylinder M coupe.
| Date | Auction | Car | Mileage | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-09-12 | Bring a Trailer Online | 2020 M2 CS (manual) | 3,400 mi | $112,500 Sold |
| 2025-04-08 | Collecting Cars Online | 2019 M2 Competition (manual) | 16,800 mi | £44,250 Sold |
Last compact, manual, rear-driven BMW M coupe; CS is the obvious long-term collector pick, manuals across the range are firming.
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