2024 BMW M2 Breaks Nurburgring Compact Car Record

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【Summary】The 2024 BMW M2 has set a new record around the Nürburgring in the compact class segment with a time of 7:38.706. The car's lap time puts it ahead of its competitors, including the old M2 and the Audi RS3. The M2 that set the record was fitted with parts that normal BMW customers can buy, unlike the Audi that had racing modifications. Despite its impressive record, the new M2 is not the same as the first-generation car and weighs close to 4,000 pounds.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 9:32 AM PT

2024 BMW M2 Breaks Nurburgring Compact Car Record

The new BMW M2 has proven its speed on the track by setting a record around the Nürburgring in the compact class segment. With a time of 7:38.706, it outperformed competitors such as the Audi RS3 and the previous M2 model. Although not an all-out track record, this achievement is still impressive.

BMW shared a video of the complete lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the classic road course. This time puts the new M2 ahead of its rivals and even surpasses the old M2's record. The previous M2 Competition model set a time of 7:52.36, while the new M2 surpassed it with its remarkable performance.

However, BMW still has some ground to cover to beat Audi's record. In 2021, an RS3 in the same class completed the track in 7:40.748. Although the gap is not significant, two seconds can be considered within the margin of error on the 'Ring.

What sets BMW's record apart from Audi's is that the M2 used for the record was equipped with parts that are available for purchase by regular BMW customers. In contrast, the Audi RS3 used for its record run had modifications such as a rear seat delete and racing buckets. Nevertheless, it is possible that Audi could release a special-edition RS3 to reclaim its title, leading to a potentially costly and somewhat meaningless competition between the brands.

While the new M2's record is impressive, it differs from the first-generation car. The current "compact" 2 Series resembles a shortened 4 Series and weighs close to 4,000 pounds as a result. However, it compensates with a powerful six-cylinder engine producing 453 horsepower and the option for a manual transmission. Despite not being the ultimate farewell model, the M2 still offers the appeal of a manual, rear-wheel drive coupe, which is becoming increasingly rare. Additionally, its price is approximately $15,000 lower than that of the M4, making it a worthwhile purchase.