We know how it is: a little optimization here, a little bit of horsepower there. But BMW is now extracting more performance from the M2 without even touching the inline six-cylinder engine. The M Performance Track Kit does not change the 3,0-liter biturbo, but a number of modifications are said to provide valuable seconds at Track Days.
The front splitter and rear spoiler are of course the most striking features of the modified BMW M2. Both aerodynamic elements are manually adjustable. The rear spoiler can be moved back by 50 millimeters in “Race Mode” and is adjustable in two positions. The variable spoiler can be retracted and complies with road homologation regulations in “Street Mode”.
The front splitter and rear spoiler are of course the most striking features of the modified BMW M2. Both aerodynamic elements are manually adjustable. The rear spoiler can be moved back by 50 millimeters in “Race Mode” and is adjustable in two positions. The variable spoiler can be retracted and complies with road homologation regulations in “Street Mode”.
BMW didn't completely re-develop the swan-neck rear wing. It comes directly from the M4 GT4 and M3 GT3 race cars, but now has a third brake light built in. Why this was necessary, the Bavarian manufacturer doesn't explain – after all, the M2 already had one to meet an EU regulation from 1998. It's possible that the wing obscured the original brake light at the top edge of the rear window and had to be moved to ensure visibility.
Two large aerodynamic upgrades significantly increase performance without having to make any changes to the engine. The front splitter provides better downforce on the front axle, while the huge spoiler (so-called swan neck) at the rear provides more downforce on the rear axle, depending on the track conditions. But the M Performance Track Kit doesn't just take care of the aerodynamics of the wild 2 Series Coupé. The chassis has also been adapted to the needs of the track.
BMW is talking about the first motorsport damper setting for a vehicle that is homologated for road use. The M2 has four-way adjustable compression and compression damping and adjustable support bearings. Compared to the production vehicle, the vehicle height can be lowered by up to 20 millimeters. The aerodynamic development of all components took place in the BMW wind tunnel. Jörg Weidinger, record driver and BMW M chassis engineer, was responsible for the entire set-up.
The fun on the racetrack costs 23.500 euros excluding taxes and installation costs. The package also includes non-adjustable diffusers on the tracks and an air duct under the engine pre-cooler. The market launch is planned for July. In parallel with the Track Kit, an exhaust system is also available for the M2 CS. It is available in the M Performance Parts catalog, gives the series-production six-cylinder a stronger sound and saves around 8 kilograms of weight. New carbon and titanium tailpipes ensure the appropriate appearance of the rear. The price is 8.343 euros. Of course, installation is not included in this case either.
For those looking for a powerful racing car, the M2 Racing is available for 98.000 euros. However, you can no longer drive this vehicle on the road. The loaded model replaces the S58 with a smaller 2,0-liter four-cylinder B48 engine. BMW justifies this by saying that racing series are mostly divided into classes, so a larger engine is not necessarily necessary. The lighter four-cylinder engine also reduces the load on components and allows the use of more series parts, which is supposed to reduce maintenance costs.
For those who regularly drive their M2 on racetracks, but also don't want to give up the motorsport feel and rather special look in everyday life, the radical Track-Kit is definitely the right choice. But don't forget that you have to put the front splitter back on after the ride, otherwise you could get into trouble with the race authorities on state roads.
