M235i to M2

M235i to M2

Author
Discussion

Aftershox

Original Poster:

397 posts

173 months

Friday 12th June 2020
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Hi all,

Wondering about people's thoughts. Currently run an M235i for weekend and trip duties (working from home, and normally commuting to the city of London in the week).

One aspect I really do love about the 235 is the fact it can really much miles and I really love going on trips in it. I currently own a ZF-8 equipped M235i, and would be looking at a 6-speed manual M2.

Would I lose much going to the M2? I know I would sacrifice some fuel economy / slightly harsher ride. But is it really that bad. Could it be the best of both worlds?

I test drove an M2 recently and the auto-down blip function sold the car to my heart, imagine that in Germany or the alps!

Your thoughts would be appreciated!

ST66N

72 posts

99 months

Saturday 13th June 2020
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I’ve had both, auto 235 and manual M2. The tyres and gearing on the 235 made it much more relaxing for motorway miles. The M2 is much more engaging for everything else. M2 auto might be a better choice if you’re doing a lot of long drives, it’ll save you wishing for seventh in the manual.

boxxer7

72 posts

63 months

Saturday 13th June 2020
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I have gone from a 235 to a M2 comp and there is definitely a big difference between the cars.

Both are Auto, the 235s zf box is definitely better for around town and bimbling around, it’s smoother and geared better for on the motorway. The DCT is better when pushing on, it changes gears in both directions quicker.

I’ve not driven an OG M2 but the suspension on the comp is far less crashy but it is firmer, it’s very noticeable when cornering, the 235 is softer and has a less precise turn in. If you can try and get a test drive so you can see the difference.


MOBB

4,075 posts

142 months

Sunday 14th June 2020
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I’ve had both

M235i is a very good car

M2 is a wonderful special car

Imo

CountRavioli

1 posts

61 months

Monday 15th June 2020
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I made this exact same switch a couple of years ago, and I also live in central London/use the car similarly (albeit I came from a manual M235i to a DCT M2). The M2 definitely has a much harsher ride and heavier steering. I also noticed a significant drop in MPG (M2 has averaged approx 23mpg over the past two years). With that said, I still do longer trips in the M2 with no issues whatsoever, and it is a much, much more engaging car to drive. Definitely worth the upgrade, in my opinion!