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

Whereas removed from being the analog automobiles their ancestors had been, the M2 and ‘Stang signify the final bastion for RWD machines with stick shifts. They’re not good, although. C&D says the BMW’s elective carbon bucket seats should not snug. As well as, gear shifts should 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 justifiable share of downsides as nicely. Outward visibility is lower than very best whereas gasoline consumption leaves so much 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 in the course of the take a look at. The touchscreen was gradual 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 dwell with each day. The muscle delivered by the “S58” is extra accessible and the automotive is “as fast as techno.” C&D appreciated the styling of the Mustang and its extra snug seats. Furthermore, additionally they appreciated the horse automotive’s brakes.

Within the acceleration take a look at, the M2 wanted 4.1 seconds to hit 60 mph. As for the Mustang, it took 4.3 seconds to get the job executed. 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. Nevertheless, the journalists fully perceive why some folks will get the Mustang for its brawny V8.

Supply: Automotive and Driver