30 Apr ​2026 BMW M2 Racing: A Modern Tribute to the E30 M3 for Aspiring Racers

BMW’s latest track weapon, the 2026 M2 Racing, is a nod to the brand’s rich motorsport heritage, channeling the spirit of the iconic E30 M3. Unveiled at the DTM season opener in Oschersleben, this entry-level race car is designed for privateers seeking a competitive yet accessible platform.​

🔧 Engine & Performance

Departing from the road-going M2’s inline-six, the M2 Racing is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine derived from BMW’s B48 series. This powerplant delivers 313 horsepower and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, enabling the car to exceed speeds of 270 km/h (168 mph) .​

The switch to a four-cylinder engine not only reduces weight but also lowers maintenance costs, making it ideal for amateur racers. The engine is paired with a seven-speed ZF automatic transmission and a mechanical limited-slip differential equipped with its own cooling system .​

🏁 Chassis & Suspension

Built on the G87 M2 platform, the M2 Racing features several motorsport-specific enhancements:​

• KW Shock Absorbers: Non-adjustable units based on BMW’s GT3 technology.​

• Adjustable Anti-Roll Bars: Both front and rear, allowing for fine-tuning of handling characteristics.​

• Braking System: BMW M Compound brakes with motorsport-specific pads and a dedicated brake air cooling system .​

• Wheels & Tires: 18-inch forged wheels fitted with Goodyear 265/660 R18 tires.​

• Weight Reduction: A carbon fiber roof and other lightweight components bring the total weight down to 1,498 kg (3,302 lbs), shedding approximately 512 lbs compared to the standard M2 .​

🛡️ Safety & Interior

The interior is purpose-built for racing, featuring:​

• FIA-Homologated Roll Cage: Ensuring driver safety during competitive events.​

• Sabelt GT-AM Racing Seat: A fixed-position seat designed for optimal support.​

• Fire Suppression System: Integrated for emergency situations.​

• Digital Displays: Retained from the standard M2 but reconfigured to display racing telemetry.​

• Optional Features: Air conditioning and a passenger seat are available for those who desire additional comfort or plan to offer ride-alongs .​

💰 Pricing & Availability

Priced at €98,000 (approximately $111,000 USD), the M2 Racing offers a more accessible alternative to BMW’s higher-tier race cars, such as the M4 GT4 EVO and M4 GT3 EVO, which are priced at €219,000 and €578,000 respectively .​

Orders for the M2 Racing will commence in June 2025, with deliveries expected before the start of the 2026 racing season. The car is eligible for various racing series worldwide, including the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS), TC America, and the 24H Series .​

WRITTEN & CURATED BY OZZIE SMALL