First Ever BMW M2: The Iconic Birth of a Performance Legend
In the late 1960s, BMW unveiled the first ever BMW M2—originally known as the BMW M1 prototype before its evolution into a production icon. This groundbreaking model marked the official birth of BMW’s M division, combining lightweight design with high-revving power to create a driver’s car like no other. Designed to dominate both track and road, the M2 featured a mid-engine layout, rear-wheel drive, and a powerful inline-six engine that delivered exhilarating performance long before such configurations became commonplace.
The first BMW M2 wasn’t just a car; it was a statement of engineering excellence. Its fusion of motorsport technology with everyday usability laid the foundation for future M models, influencing generations of performance vehicles. Though production was limited, its legend endures through classic car enthusiasts and automotive historians alike. Today, the M2 remains a benchmark in German sports car craftsmanship, celebrated for its raw appeal and uncompromising performance.
For collectors and driving enthusiasts, the first BMW M2 represents a pivotal moment in automotive history—a first step in a legacy that continues to inspire innovation and passion in every M model that follows. Whether you're restoring a classic or experiencing its power today, the first BMW M2 stands as a timeless tribute to BMW’s relentless pursuit of driving perfection.
The first BMW M2 remains a revered classic, symbolizing the dawn of an enduring legacy. Its pioneering design and performance set a benchmark that continues to inspire. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or curious driver, revisiting the origins of the M2 offers a powerful reminder of why BMW M stands at the pinnacle of automotive performance.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance version of the BMW 2 Series automobile developed by BMW 's motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. As the 2 Series replaced the 1 Series coupé and convertible models, the first. After it launched the first generation of the M2 in 2016 on the Laguna Seca race track, the German car manufacturer pushed its enthusiasts' limits with the introduction of the 2018 BMW M2 Competition.
The legendary BMW M2 has officially entered a new era. For the first time ever, BMW has given its most aggressive compact M car the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, changing the game completely. The BMW M2 history up to this point has been a real positive for BMW M in terms of sales and creating a following for its entry-level M cars.
At the time of writing a decent 'OG' can be had for around £28,000 to £34,000, with a Competition commanding £36,000 to £44,000, whilst CS models sell for £70,000 plus. A top BMW M Performance icon, the BMW M2, left an indelible mark on the coupe sports car segment in just short eight years. The BMW M2's evolution from the first to the second generation is a testament to BMW's dedication to performance and driving pleasure.
The first generation is admired for reigniting the essence of M's past glory and the second generation celebrated for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a compact sports car. The 2016 F87 was the first of the BMW M2 generations, with the nameplate still being fairly new, serving as the Bavarian automaker's entry. The First - Ever BMW M2 Coupé ∞ Introduction BMW M, (M for Motorsport) was initially created to facilitate the growth of BMW's track and road racing programme, back in 1972.
Six years later, building on their growing technical nous and racing pedigree, BMW launched its incredibly successful line of modified and enhanced M. 1998 Two-seater sports cars were realized this year, with the BMW M Coupe bringing forth a whopping 321 hp. Also, the third generation M5 debuts at this time, considered one of the most powerful vehicles ever built by the German automaker.
It was the first to be powered by an impressive 8. The BMW M2 Competition is the first BMW M2 to be equipped with selector switches in the center console that allow instant control of settings for the engine, steering and Drivelogic functions, if M DCT is available.