BMW M2 vs Porsche 718
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW M2 comes out ahead of the Porsche 718 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
M2
Overall
Sentiment is highly positive, with owners praising the M2 as a focused, engaging, and practical performance car that offers a compelling blend of power, handling, and daily usability. The F87 generation (2016-2021) is frequently lauded for its balance, with the original N55-powered model noted for its lighter weight and the Competition (S55) model for its increased power and track capability. The newer G87 generation is acknowledged as a more powerful and technologically advanced successor, though some feedback suggests it feels larger and heavier.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version, as preferences are split by generation and priority. For the F87 generation, the lighter original (OG) M2 is prized for its nimbleness, while the M2 Competition is favored for its S55 engine's increased power and track readiness.
Known issues
- Manual transmission feel described as "rubbery," "vague," or not particularly special: with long gear ratios, a very light clutch, and rev hang mentioned. Frequency: recurrent.
- Low-speed drivability quirks: can be jerky in first and second gear, clutch may rattle at bite point, engine power delivery described as "dead" at low revs before becoming "manic" higher in the rev range. Frequency: recurrent.
- Increased weight in newer generations: the F87 Competition and G87 are noted as being significantly heavier than the original F87, impacting the perception of nimbleness. Frequency: recurrent.
718
Overall
Sentiment is highly positive regarding the 718's core driving dynamics, with owners consistently praising its exceptional handling, steering precision, and chassis balance. The platform is widely regarded as a pure, mid-engine sports car that offers an engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience on both public roads and track environments. However, a significant and recurrent point of contention centers on engine character, creating a generational divide.
Best version to buy
The 718 GTS 4.0 is frequently cited as the best all-around version for spirited street driving. Owners highlight its potent naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine, which provides a strong mid-range and an engaging character, combined with the refined 718 chassis.
Known issues
- Throttle response lag / turbo lag (turbo 4-cylinder models): Noticeable delay in power delivery, especially at lower RPMs, described as a lack of immediate response. Frequency: recurrent.
- Engine sound / character (turbo 4-cylinder models): Exhaust note considered uninspiring and inferior to the flat-six engine's sound, a major point of criticism. Frequency: very frequent.
- Long gearing (GT4/Spyder models): Gear ratios described as excessively long, making it difficult to rev out the engine fully on public roads. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The BMW M2 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Porsche 718, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the BMW M2 are a dealbreaker, the Porsche 718 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW M2 or the Porsche 718?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the BMW M2 than the Porsche 718. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the BMW M2 or the Porsche 718?
The BMW M2 seats more passengers than the Porsche 718 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the BMW M2 is classed as a Coupe, the Porsche 718 as a Cabriolet.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW M2 or the Porsche 718?
The EPA rates the 2027 BMW M2 at 18–19 mpg combined and the 2025 Porsche 718 at 16–24 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW M2 or the Porsche 718?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.