[speeddeacon]

The results are predictable. The M2 was the fastest and the pick of the group. The 228, with its lighter weight, particularly in the front end, is more enjoyable in the technical stuff than the heavier, albeit faster 235i. Big surprise. I think we've read basically the same thing written back when the 2 series was first launched. In fact they said the same thing about the F series 328 vs 335.

What was surprising to me, however, was actually how close the 235 was to the M2 on track. With the M2's advantage not just in power but suspension and brake components and larger section width tires, for the 235 to be less than 0.5s slower than the M2 seems pretty remarkable. The 228i was over two seconds slower than the 235.

I mean I loved driving my Mini Cooper S with it's light weight, go-cart like agility, but it was certainly no hot rod. Neither is the 228. They are all fantastic cars. Like others have mentioned, they all have their intended purpose for whoever purchases the car. For me, this would be a daily driver so I'm going to give the edge to having more zip rather than agility and the new 240 will hit my sweet spot.

From personal experience, we went to the dealer back in 2012 to drive and buy the F30 228i. It was a great car, but when we drove the 335i there was no comparison. The 335 was much more responsive, smoother and quieter. We stroked a check for the 335i.