Based on my real-world experience, the 2024 Audi RS3 and the 2024 BMW M2 are two of the best contemporary German compact cars on green earth. This opinion is mainly rooted in driving experience rather than aspects like comfort, luxury, and aesthetics. Looks are subjective and I acknowledge they may vary from person to person. While I was a fan of the bold, serious demeanor of the previous, first-generation F87 BMW M2, I actually prefer the current generation M2 as it now offers up a GT vibe thanks to an elongated hood, flared rear stance and larger than before cabin.
2024 Audi RS3 exterior.
RS3 brings amped up A3 styling
On the other hand, the Audi is simply an aggressive Audi. It doesn't stand out much from the usual modern RS design language, which hasn't evolved significantly over the past few years. However, the 2024 RS3 looks proportionate, stylish, and just hardcore enough to convey that it's a high-performance car.
2024 Audi RS3 vs. 2024 BMW M2: Twin-turbo inline-6 vs. turbo inline-5 — two distinct juggernauts
BMW and inline-6 is a harmonious combination appreciated by enthusiasts worldwide. The 2024 BMW M2 sports an inline-6 that is truly monstrous. The M2's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine delivers 453 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, which is substantial for a car of its size. It's the same engine powering the current-gen BMW M4 and M3, though with 20 fewer horses. This powerhouse is undeniably a beast, and having experienced its performance in the M2's elder siblings, I can confidently say that it's most enjoyable in the compact M2.
2024 BMW M2 exterior.
Powering the 2024 Audi RS3 is a different engine altogether. It’s one cylinder short but certainly not lacking in fun. The award-winning turbocharged 5-cylinder engine of the RS3 is unique yet outstanding — potent, smooth, and sonorous. It churns out 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. While it might seem less powerful on paper, you wouldn't notice it from the driver's seat of the RS3.
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How do these powertrains actually feel?
The BMW M2's 6-cylinder is a tried-and-true instrument of high-speed propulsion. It's all-around impressive and represents the best of what BMW offers. The Audi RS3's 5-cylinder, on the other hand, provides a one-of-a-kind experience. It sounds and feels distinct from anything else on the road. Plus, if you opt for the RS3, you get the bragging rights for owning the most powerful 5-cylinder production car.
The 2024 Audi RS3 is faster to 60 MPH, while the 2024 BMW M2 offers a godsend 6-speed manual
The 2024 Audi RS3 comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is among the best in the business. While I noticed a slight hesitation in downshifts during hard braking, this was effectively compensated by the car's strong brakes. This didn't hinder the driving experience to a noticeable extent, and the performance of this dual-clutch unit is truly exceptional. Acceleration to 60 mph takes around 3.3-3.5 seconds, and it feels both ballistic and firmly planted while sprinting.
2024 Audi RS3 interior.
However, the 2024 BMW M2 offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. The one I drove had the manual, and it was as divine as you'd expect. No automated transmission can replicate that mechanical feel, which is exactly why you should go for the manual if you're considering an M2. It is slower to 60 mph, taking around 4 seconds, but that wait is totally worth it. The automatic version might be faster, but even then, the RS3 is likely to be quicker.
2024 Audi RS3 vs. 2024 BMW M2: Rally-redolent all-wheel drive vs. purebred rear-wheel drive
The BMW M2 is like a PB&J sandwich — something you can enjoy every day and also as occasional comfort food. The only downside is the occasional sugar rush, which in this case is butterflies in your stomach. This describes the driving experience of the 2024 BMW M2 perfectly. It's fun, versatile, and can serve as your daily driver, track car, drift machine, or road-trip companion. In its stock form, the M2 can fulfill all these roles elegantly.
2024 BMW M2 interior
The 2024 Audi RS3 is less of a hooligan. If the M2 is a playful Bimmer, the RS3 is a sharp, controlled Quattro. In its usual RS modes, the RS3 is supremely in control, allowing even novice drivers to push it to the limits. It's more beginner-friendly, but that doesn't mean it lacks thrills for expert enthusiasts. The RS3 is a safe yet exciting car for a novice driver and a precise, thrilling machine for more experienced drivers. You might wonder if it can go sideways like the M2—the answer is yes. Although the RS3 is inherently an AWD car, it has a trick up its sleeve. It sports a rear-biased all-wheel drivetrain with a clever differential. Put it into "drift mode," and you're ready to swing the rear around.
Final thoughts
So, which one suits you better? The choice here boils down to personal preference. Both cars have provided me with the unexplainable pleasure of driving. You really can't go wrong with either. However, I would pick the RS3 for daily driving and the BMW M2 for those times I want an occasional adrenaline rush as it’s simply a little more fun with rear-wheel drive.
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