The BMW M240i finds itself in a bit of an odd place, price-wise. Starting at around $46,000, it’s about $7,000 less than a proper BMW M2. Though, the latter is a true M car with more power, better performance and sharper driving dynamics. But is it so much better that it’s worth the extra money? Autoweek doesn’t seem to think so. According to them, the BMW M240i is not only worth buying over the BMW M2 but that it’s one of the best overall sports cars on the road.

With a B58 3.0 liter turbocharged I6 engine, the BMW M240i makes 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. When paired with the eight-speed auto (a six-speed manual is optional), it’s 9/10ths of the performance that the M2 is. The sprint from 0-60 mph happens in the low four-second range, which makes it seriously quick. And at speed, it’s rock-solid stable, so it can handle a rapid pace for a long time on the highway. The same can be said about the BMW M2, though. However, the M2 is very stiff and can be tiresome to drive. Whereas the BMW M240i is comfortable and quiet, allowing it to have most of the M2’s performance and capabilities without its compromise.

The M240i can also properly handle. While it’s not as scalpel sharp as the M2, or even cars like the new Camaro SS, it has a wonderful combination of impressive dynamics and refined luxury. It’s almost like the spiritual successor to the E46 BMW 3 Series Coupe. The steering is sharp and direct, though a bit light on feel, and its chassis is balanced. So it’s a real joy to toss through some corners. Though, it isn’t rough and doesn’t punish you for wanting fun driving dynamics. It’s hard to fault the M240i’s duality.

Here are some of the things Autoweek had to say about the BMW M240i:

  • “I love this engine. Love it. Smooth and powerful, it just begs to be flogged. The midrange poke is especially impressive and the higher you rev it the cooler it sounds.”
  • “The reason I might take this over the M2 is the chassis. It’s like one level softer than the M2″, but plenty stiff for corner carving and apex nailing. Thankfully BMW didn’t put run-flat tires on it and ruin it. It’s just short-wheelbase, predictable goodness, with no harshness, except for when the city cuts out a square of road for repairs, leaving a 2-inch edge of cement to bang over.”
  • ” Sure, the M2 is the king of the 2-Series lineup, but having driven similarly prepped versions of both cars, I can say that you’re not getting much more out of the M2. Hell, I’d say that the M240i is the best bang you’ll find at a Bimmer dealership.”

That sounds like high praise for a car that seems to be living in the shadow of an older, more capable brother.

[Source: Autoweek]