The BMW M2 and Ford Mustang are dinosaurs (in a great way) within the sports activities automobile realm. Each nonetheless enchantment to purists with their handbook gearboxes. Regardless of the downsizing period we’re residing in, Bavaria’s G87 will get you an inline-six whereas Dearborn’s pony automobile rocks a V8. Automobile and Driver orchestrated a duel between the 2, deciding to check out the three-pedal variations.

Whereas removed from being the analog vehicles their ancestors have been, the M2 and ‘Stang characterize the final bastion for RWD machines with stick shifts. They’re not excellent, although. C&D says the BMW’s optionally available carbon bucket seats usually are not snug. As well as, gear shifts usually are not as crisp as they’re on the Ford. The journalists additionally most well-liked the soundtrack delivered by the large ol’ NA 5.0 over the twin-turbo 3.0-liter mill.

The Mustang has its fair proportion of downsides as nicely. Outward visibility is lower than supreme whereas gasoline consumption leaves lots to be desired. It did 14 miles per gallon whereas the M2 did 18 mpg. As well as, there have been some points with the infotainment through the check. The touchscreen was sluggish to start out and reply to the consumer’s inputs. There was additionally some noticeable distortion whereas streaming music.

On the plus facet, the brand new M2 was praised for being simpler to reside with day by day. The muscle delivered by the “S58” is extra accessible and the automobile is “as fast as techno.” C&D appreciated the styling of the Mustang and its extra snug seats. Furthermore, in addition they preferred the horse automobile’s brakes.

Within the acceleration check, the M2 wanted 4.1 seconds to hit 60 mph. As for the Mustang, it took 4.3 seconds to get the job performed. The compact BMW was additionally faster to the quarter mile, achieved in 12.3 seconds at 119 mph. The Darkish Horse took 12.7 seconds at a barely decrease lure velocity of 115 mph. Within the 50 to 70 mph analysis, the M2 solely wanted 6.7 seconds whereas the Mustang was 2.5 seconds slower.

The BMW in the end took the win by being extra refined and comfy. C&D additionally felt it was simpler to drive at full tilt. Nonetheless, the journalists fully perceive why some individuals will get the Mustang for its brawny V8.

Supply: Automobile and Driver