Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 2020
| M3 E30 Sport Evolution | M2 CS F87 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 444 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 406 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,302 cc | 2,979 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 154 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 12.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,645 lbs | 3,417 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,562 mm | 2,693 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,461 mm |
| Units Produced | 17,970 | 2,200 |
| Original MSRP | $34,950 | $83,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $130,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 2020 BMW M2 CS F87 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1986 BMW M3 E30 Sport Evolution counters with lighter weight, 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 1986 BMW M3 E30 Sport Evolution 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 215 hp, a 229-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M3 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 2,302 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 6.5 seconds. The BMW M3 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 772 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 M3's 17,970 examples.