Germany vs Germany — 1988 vs 2020
| M5 E34 | M2 CS F87 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 444 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 406 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,535 cc | 2,979 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 12.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,638 lbs | 3,417 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,761 mm | 2,693 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,461 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,254 | 2,200 |
| Original MSRP | $56,600 | $83,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $130,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
The 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1988 BMW M5 E34 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the BMW stable, the 1988 BMW M5 E34 and 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the BMW badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 444 hp compared to 315 hp, a 129-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V displacing 3,535 cc, while the BMW M2 CS relies on a Inline-6 Twin-Turbocharged DOHC 24V with 2,979 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. The BMW M2 CS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 221 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,200 units built, the 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 12,254 examples. On the collector market, the 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 commands a significant premium over the 1988 BMW M5 E34, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.