[atorreon]

Hey all,

Going through a bit of possible midlife crisis and looking to move on from a nicely setup 750li with high miles to a gently used m235i. I have a large family suv and s2000 for cruising but wanted to get into something smaller and more daily fun which can serve as a commuter/occasional track day car. I've never driven the M2 but have had previous M cars that were great at some things but missed on others.


How many m235i owners regretted not buying an M2? If so why?

[4Hockey4]

I don't DD mine, but use some and on weekends. Have a 2016 235i low mileage MT.

Can add a few performance things (including LSD) and still spend way less.

listen I love the look of the M2, and only found a few low mileage/older owners I would have bought from..but simply won't be able to use its potential unless I track, add in rougher ride, and I have as much fun in the 235.

[dradernh]

Originally Posted by atorreon

How many m235i owners regretted not buying an M2? If so why?

I thought about an M2, briefly. I wanted a street/track car and determined that a new M240i at the right price and with the right mods would give me M2 performance at a significantly reduced cost. I haven't been disappointed.

Originally Posted by 4Hockey4

Can add a few performance things (including LSD) and still spend way less.

Yes...^this.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The key thing for me, and the beauty of choosing an M235i/M240i over the M2, is that if you choose to modify it for increased performance, you can make the car your own.

Some of what you might do, like the LSD, the M2 already comes with. However, you now get to choose which LSD you'd like to have. I've had three race cars with custom LSDs, and that choice for my M240i was important to me. It's not that it was a big deal in terms of the LSD itself, as I have no doubt that BMW's diff is fine – I just wanted to choose my own type of diff, which was a different design than the one that BMW puts in the M2 and offers for our cars (i.e., geared vs. clutch).

Whether or not I bought an M2 or an M240i, I was going to put coilovers on the car. That's a $3K to $?K expense, regardless of which car I bought. As far as the track goes, it was the same with wheels and tires – I was going to buy a set whichever car I bought.

One modification I did that (I think) wouldn't have been necessary on the M2 to was to have solid rear subframe bushings installed. On the upside, since I had that done when the diff was being installed the labor cost was significantly reduced. I know that the M2 has stiffer bushings generally (and, perhaps(?), all around), but being able to choose which bushings to make stiffer was to me an advantage for a car that's going to spend most of its life on our contemporary American roads and streets.

I also installed a front swaybar. That was strictly a track-oriented choice. Between the bar and the installation, that wasn't cheap – not like my E36s anyway. On the upside, the bar made a noticeable difference on the track, and I don't drive aggressively enough on the street for it to have exhibited any untoward effects. In fact, on the street I can't tell the difference. In my book, that's a win.

My bottom line is this: if you want a street/track car that BMW built for the general enthusiast, I doubt that you'll go wrong choosing the M2. If on the other hand you have clear ideas about what you want in a street (and, possibly, track) performance car, I think the M235i/M240i are remarkably terrific starting points. That's from both a financial and a performance perspective.

As far as I'm concerned, the only downside to these cars is the weight. Unfortunately, given that the F87 and the F22 are modern cars, there's nothing to be done about that issue unless you're able to spend cubic dollars (think: six figures). These cars will never be light. I doubt any F22 owner is going to spend the money to create a light F22 unless they're totally in love with the series. I certainly like the idea; but, sadly, I'm not in that bracket. Those who are tend to be into Porsches and Ferraris, but not always!

[Liandri]

I debated both (and 435i + used m4) and am very glad I went with the m235i. You can add all sorts of mods to equalize or surpass M level performance and still be under cost of M2, but at the end of the day if your not tracking as a primary hobby, an M2/3/4 is a ton of extra expense with no real gain other than badass looks imo. I actually wanted the ZF8 and not the DCT (or 6mt) so that also factored into my decision. I'm glad I didn't go with a 435i either as the M235i is a much better starting point for about 5k less on the used market. The only downside I've noticed so far is wheel fitment, you won't be able to get very aggressive as the fenders just won't allow it. But to each their own, compare what you want in a spreadsheet and make sure to drive both and watch all the youtubes, and you'll make an informed decision. For reference I bought my 2016 fully loaded/every single option last year with 17k on the odo for $27.5k, whereas M2's with similar mileage were going for 45k and used M4's at the lowest were 40k with twice the mileage. I had doubts about finding a good history on the M cars but my m235i had a perfect 1 owner carfax, never modded, and had plenty of tread left on the original PSS tires so I know it was used normally. Good luck, these cars are fantastic

[j2dad5389]

Heres my .2

It comes down to what you are looking for in your next car. For me, it took me a while to figure out what I want and what I really like. I went from a 428 - > M4 -> to the M235. The 428 was a fun and super comfortable DD. The M4 speaks for itself. But was just too much power for what I needed and my daily lifestyle. This car is the perfect combination of daily driving comfort and still packs a pretty punch, for a fraction of the cost. I have no desire to get back into an M car any time in the near future. If you have the money and want the best of the best, no questions, M2. If you're on a budget and still want a fast, powerful, and fun to drive car, you absolutely cannot go wrong with the M235.

And like everyone else is saying - you can still mod/tune it to get close to M2 levels for a fraction of the cost.

[mikeyymonster]

If getting new, I think I would pay a little more just to get an M2. However, for used cars, the M235i/M240i definitely has a lot more value for what you pay. I have a 2014 M235i that I bought new so I didn't get a chance to purchase the M2 at the time. I've done a decent amount of mods (KW DDC coilovers, custom forged wheels, exterior bits, etc.), but in the end, I still wish I had an M2. I think I might actually make the jump for a 2021 M2C if I can get a good deal. It is true that the wheel selection for this car sucks, but if you're willing to go custom, you can get some pretty nice aggressive concave looking wheels. I do still have a lot of joy driving my car though, so maybe I'm just lusting over a new toy.

[whoismorggan]

I regret it almost every day. Usually depends on if I see an M2 that day

[mikeyymonster]

Originally Posted by f20two

I regret it almost every day. Usually depends on if I see an M2 that day

Let's make the switch!

[whoismorggan]

Originally Posted by mikeyymonster

Let's make the switch!

Ah, eventually...

[atorreon]

Thanks for all the responses! 2series community is great, I have missed this banter ever since moving on from previous BMWs and into my grandpa 7series. Sounds like m235 is a very comfortable choice being well rounded with a high ceiling for tuning. Definitely one of the things I love about my S2000 also.

[atorreon]

Originally Posted by f20two

I regret it almost every day. Usually depends on if I see an M2 that day

Can you elaborate on your statement?

[Pray for Mojo]

M2C yes, OG M2 no way. I don't actually have any remorse, when I bought the M235i the M2 was just a rumour and more than a year away. Like anything in life we pine for what we don't have. I bet the buyers remorse is way worse for the LCI M2 guys who could have had an S55 car if they waited a year or so.

[BimBimM2]

Originally Posted by atorreon

Hey all,

Going through a bit of possible midlife crisis and looking to move on from a nicely setup 750li with high miles to a gently used m235i. I have a large family suv and s2000 for cruising but wanted to get into something smaller and more daily fun which can serve as a commuter/occasional track day car. I've never driven the M2 but have had previous M cars that were great at some things but missed on others.


How many m235i owners regretted not buying an M2? If so why?

M2C is a track toy. Anyone who says otherwise is a masochist. The car has no variable suspension and the ride is harsh as fuck.

I honestly don't understand your use case. Why are you looking for a track/daily driver when you have an S2000? Get a dedicated track toy like the M2C (NOT the M2!) and daily drive the S2000.

[Joakim_79]

I went from a non LCI 2 series to a LCI 2 series. I would have buyers remorse if I bought a non LCI 2 series if I were you.

Choosing between 235i/240i and M2, well, as long as it is a LCI i would choose what I would use the car for.
Trackdays: M2
Daily commute and grand tours: definitely 235/240.

[atorreon]

Originally Posted by BimBimM2

M2C is a track toy. Anyone who says otherwise is a masochist. The car has no variable suspension and the ride is harsh as fuck.

I honestly don't understand your use case. Why are you looking for a track/daily driver when you have an S2000? Get a dedicated track toy like the M2C (NOT the M2!) and daily drive the S2000.

I've had the question come up a ton of why I don't track or DD the S2000. Weirdly it's my least expensive car but the one I baby the most. I don't think I need an M2C though. I would never come close to using it properly. I still want to drive the car comfortably as that will be the majority of its use to me personally

[dradernh]

Originally Posted by atorreon

I don't think I need an M2C though. I would never come close to using it properly.

That's the thing, isn't it. All the Porsche owners I know have something else for a daily driver. Almost all of the miles on my car came from trips to/from race tracks, going to pick up used wheels and tires, and trips to race shops in the region. My DD is the wife's Mazda 3.

[silver_mcoupe]

No remorse recently coming from an F80 ZCP to the M240. I never tracked the M3 (I have a track toy for that) and would unlikely track the M2C if I had gotten one.

I'm finding the M240 to be fun to drive as a DD and have some plans to personalize it for my use. So far so good

[whoismorggan]

Originally Posted by atorreon

Can you elaborate on your statement?

I love my m235i, but as far as its exterior styling and overall look - the M2 is an aggressive monster compared to it. Wheel/tire size, bumper & fender width, quad exhaust, etc.

What I meant was I love the looks and performance of my car, but when I see an M2 on the street or I park next to one - I kick myself because it's so much beefier.

[keylime503]

Originally Posted by Joakim_79

I went from a non LCI 2 series to a LCI 2 series. I would have buyers remorse if I bought a non LCI 2 series if I were you.

Choosing between 235i/240i and M2, well, as long as it is a LCI i would choose what I would use the car for.
Trackdays: M2
Daily commute and grand tours: definitely 235/240.

Mechanical LCI (2017) or cosmetic LCI (2018)?

I have a 2017 M240i which is the unicorn. B58 engine, but exact same lights and wheels as an M235i.

[XutvJet]

I ordered my 6MT 2016 M235 in December 2015 with all the options I wanted (no nav, no moonroof, most all other options though). I got the car for $47K. I knew the M2 was coming in the summer and I knew the MSRP price was low $50s; however, I knew markup would significant, buying at MSRP unlikely, and the waiting list long. In the summer of 2016, 6MT M2s were going for $60K-75K. I specifically bought my M2325 in mineral white which really enhances the body lines and makes the car look more flared out than any other color (it's still no M2 though). Many of the 2 series colors really don't do the body justice.

Since acquiring the car, I've added:

1) An 18X8 with 245/35 tire (MP4S) setup which totally crushed front tire wear and increase front end grip. Alutec Drive wheels, which look similar to M2 wheels, were only $600 for the set and are made by the same company that makes BMW wheels.

2) I added Dinan springs and spacers to the rear only. I felt the rear axle was too softly spring and the Dinan springs have 40% more rate and I got a 1" drop. The car feels more planted and in tune with front axle now. I love it and have no desire to install the springs on the front as a drop isn't needed and they only have 10% more rate.

3) I added the M Performance LSD for $2,500. Wow. This mod transformed the car immensely. By far the best single performance mod I've done.

4) I added the M Performance exhaust for $600. Amazing sound. No drone. Lots more pops. OEM fitment. Perfection.

5) I added a HJS Euro 6 downpipe ($1,300) which is good for around 20whp/30wtq with no tune. This added more throttle/turbo response and the exhaust sounds even better. This DP can also be installed on the M2.

6) I added a used Dinan Stage 2 piggyback for $800. This piggyback is well tuned. Power hits in a linear and progressive fashion with no hiccups, unlike something like the JB4 and other piggybacks. Dinan went to great lengths to make their piggyback perform like a flash tune. People have dynoed the Dinan Stage 2 setup with a catted DP and have seen 370-380whp/390-400wtq. For reference, a stock M2 N55 makes ~330whp/350wtq on the same type of dyno.

Over the years, I've spent $6100 improving the performance of my M235, though some mods can be transferred over to an M2 N55. I've also done a few cosmetic and interior mods as well, many of which could transfer over to an M2 as well. Ironically, people tell me all the time how they love my "M2". LOL

I joke that my M235 is "M Lite". It weighs 3380lbs on the truck scale with 1/2 tank of gas. That means it's about 100lbs lighter than a 6MT M2 N55.

I have driven an N55 M2 6MT and I loved it. My M235 is faster, more plush, grips just as hard, but the M2 feels more composed and sport focused. It looks a bit better too. I love my M235, but if I wrecked it, I wouldn't hesitate to buy an N55 M2 and wouldn't even consider an M235/240.

I also have no interest in the M2 Competition with the S55 motor. That motor is far more complex and expensive to work on. The N55 is simple, reliable, and cheap to fix in comparison and you can make S55 with a few bolt-ons. The S55 also has a major design flaw with the crank hub which would scare the crap out of me if I owned it out of warranty.

[Moflow]

My M2 competition is my only car, I don't think the ride is nearly as bad as some of you are making it out to be and I live in the middle of Seattle where roads are not good. My friend had an AP1 S2000 and that had a worse ride than my M2c. My old 350Z didn't really ride any better either. It's sporty and firm but far from unlivable. I do worry about damaging the wheels on potholes though.

That said, I think it's kind of silly to regret one's buying choice if you like the car you own. There's a nice M235i that parks in the same garage as me, so i pass it almost every time I leave my house. You know what I think? I think "Damn, that's a nice car." Clean, good color, pretty damn fast by any measure....

Even the base 2-series is a cool car, punchy 4-banger, RWD, can be had with a manual transmission etc. If you're always comparing what you have to everything else, you'll find there's always something better out there, pretty much no matter what.

[harma24]

Originally Posted by Joakim_79

I went from a non LCI 2 series to a LCI 2 series. I would have buyers remorse if I bought a non LCI 2 series if I were you.

I'm in the unique position (I think) in that I have one of each in my driveway; my car is a 2017 M240 (without nav) and my wife drives a 2020 230 (with nav). I can tell you I don't have any buyers remorse. Both are great in their own way. The newer iDrive is nice, but seems overly complicated compared to the pre-LCI version. Although I do like the larger screen, I do not regret not having the nav package. Damn, BMW's navigation SUCKS! Too frequently, if I blindly followed the directions, I'd have wasted time/miles/fuel. Some of the directions are simply ridiculous!

Originally Posted by keylime503

I have a 2017 M240i which is the unicorn.

Right there with you keylime! I love how unique our cars are! <sarcasm>It's so rare, it's going to be worth millions someday!</sarcasm>