discussion N55 vs S55 M2

[Holiman]

This topic has been discussed many a thread on the internet but I wanted to gauge local thoughts on it. I think the last time as BMW fanatics we went to Red Star raceway (which was pre covid) there was alot of cars that came through. That was the one opportunity where I got to see the differences between the n55 and s55 M2.

The one thing the that stood out for me was the following:

N55 sounds mental. The engine of cos is not M but it is one of the strongest n55's built. The n55 does not have the full phat M package as its Basically it's a sedan 135 which lets it down somewhat

S55 is a full on M car. Engine, Chassis, suspension and drivetrain. Has the better looking body and the proper M interior. In my opinion not the best sounding engine. Think it sounds better though in single turbo format.

If you had to get one,which one would you go for and why?

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[momo1]

Ive had both engines albeit in different guises , S55 in the M4 and currently the N55 in the 135i

It honestly depends on what you want , they both great motors, An M car is an M car, it feels different, more special , looks better and its fits a more dynamic driving purpose, the N55 is more casual but still brutal.
for an engine to live with everyday the N55 does that well, for everything else S55.

 

[M3boi]

IMO the S55 doesn't suit the M2 chassis. The power delivery is far too hectic, even for the M3/M4 chassis I feel.

I've driven both M2's, and to me the N55 just suits the car better. Its a lot more usable.

 

[gavsadler]

I went down this rabbit hole quite extensively over the past month (to the point of thinking silly thoughts which would lead to debt and divorce, lol).

Looking at the OG M2 vs the M2 Comp:

• Exterior: Body wise they are similar, I can't say I prefer the newer grille compared to the older. I prefer the OG wheels compared to the Comp wheels (the CS wheels are nice though).
• Interior: The OG M2 seats are bespoke as far as I know. The Comp seats are from the M3/M4. Having sat in both, I actually prefer the OG seats, they are really comfortable. Maybe for looks or bragging rights the Comp Buckets would get more ooohs and ahhhs
• Engine: I prefer the sound of the N55 compared to the S55. Sure it's down on power, but it is by no means a slow car (details below in my mini-review).
• Brakes: the Comp gets bigger brakes (disc size and caliper changes), but with that comes an incr. of approx 15kg in unsprung mass.
• Suspension: not 100% clear here, but I assume there are differences.

With the above in mind, I went to look at a few different cars, and speaking to the owners / salesman, the consensus is that the OG is a real fun car, with linear power delivery, and good sound. The Comp is a level up of sorts. It's much faster, but also much more aggressive in the power delivery. It was described as scary by most people I spoke to. The Comp is a more focussed version of the M2 range, the same as what is done in the other M cars.

With this in mind, I ended up taking a stock standard OG M2 for a test drive. I immediately felt at home in the car, and it invoked some serious nostalgia about our previous X3 35i days (still miss that car). The engine mated with the DCT is a dream, it really is silky smooth, and effortless. It feels way different to the drive in my M3. The N55 also has lots of Torque low down (465Nm from 1400rpm -5560rpm, with 35Nm overboost). As mentioned earlier, it sounds good too, whether you are burbling along through the traffic, or giving it a squirt down a clear stretch of road. Changing between Normal>Sport>Sport+ also opens the valves in the exhaust for more drama.

Giving it the beans, the power delivery is linear and smooth all the way to the red line. Other stock N55s run out of puff after 5000rpm or so, whereas this was definitely still happy to make more power. It was a hoot to drive. Punching it from low RPM in 2nd gear sees the ass get all wiggly, just long enough to give passengers (re: salesman) big eyes, before the electronics and my common sense intervened.

I really enjoyed the drive. Like I say, it was enough to start all sorts of planning and justification to lead to an M2 joining the fleet. Thankfully common sense has prevailed (for now at least).

I also looked at things another way: IF I had the 2 cars parked in front of me, which one would I choose? Which one would make me happy out-of-the-box. The answer would be the OG M2.

Why? Well the more I look at the Comp, as much as it's "better", "faster", "newer", "more of a proper M Car", there is still too much wrong with it, haha.

The OG M2 I could take and enjoy looking at it, driving it, maintaining it, etc. Everything is right, it really isn't necessary to change anything (M Perf exhaust would be nice, but it's not required). Yes please...

With the Comp, I would want to change the wheels (to CS wheels, or even OG wheels). The rear exhaust box looks like a giant udder hanging out the ass, so that would annoy me and I would want to change that, purely for aesthetics (if it were to improve the S55 Sound, that would be a bonus). Even with just these 2 things, this is 50k, or maybe 100k on top of the purchase price, just to curb my irritation and dismay.

In conclusion, if you are in the market, I would most certainly not dismiss the OG M2, it delivers a driving experience that thrills and touches all your senses in a positive way. It is fun, and not stupidly fast or scary, and you won't be frowning and cringing from S55 exhaust sounds. That being said, if you are a driver that can extract 10/10ths out of a vehicle, and if you want the ultimate M2, that does everything faster, and is maybe more clinical or surgical in execution, then the Comp is worth considering.

 

[Holiman]

I went down this rabbit hole quite extensively over the past month (to the point of thinking silly thoughts which would lead to debt and divorce, lol).

Looking at the OG M2 vs the M2 Comp:

• Exterior: Body wise they are similar, I can't say I prefer the newer grille compared to the older. I prefer the OG wheels compared to the Comp wheels (the CS wheels are nice though).
• Interior: The OG M2 seats are bespoke as far as I know. The Comp seats are from the M3/M4. Having sat in both, I actually prefer the OG seats, they are really comfortable. Maybe for looks or bragging rights the Comp Buckets would get more ooohs and ahhhs
• Engine: I prefer the sound of the N55 compared to the S55. Sure it's down on power, but it is by no means a slow car (details below in my mini-review).
• Brakes: the Comp gets bigger brakes (disc size and caliper changes), but with that comes an incr. of approx 15kg in unsprung mass.
• Suspension: not 100% clear here, but I assume there are differences.

With the above in mind, I went to look at a few different cars, and speaking to the owners / salesman, the consensus is that the OG is a real fun car, with linear power delivery, and good sound. The Comp is a level up of sorts. It's much faster, but also much more aggressive in the power delivery. It was described as scary by most people I spoke to. The Comp is a more focussed version of the M2 range, the same as what is done in the other M cars.

With this in mind, I ended up taking a stock standard OG M2 for a test drive. I immediately felt at home in the car, and it invoked some serious nostalgia about our previous X3 35i days (still miss that car). The engine mated with the DCT is a dream, it really is silky smooth, and effortless. It feels way different to the drive in my M3. The N55 also has lots of Torque low down (465Nm from 1400rpm -5560rpm, with 35Nm overboost). As mentioned earlier, it sounds good too, whether you are burbling along through the traffic, or giving it a squirt down a clear stretch of road. Changing between Normal>Sport>Sport+ also opens the valves in the exhaust for more drama.

Giving it the beans, the power delivery is linear and smooth all the way to the red line. Other stock N55s run out of puff after 5000rpm or so, whereas this was definitely still happy to make more power. It was a hoot to drive. Punching it from low RPM in 2nd gear sees the ass get all wiggly, just long enough to give passengers (re: salesman) big eyes, before the electronics and my common sense intervened.

I really enjoyed the drive. Like I say, it was enough to start all sorts of planning and justification to lead to an M2 joining the fleet. Thankfully common sense has prevailed (for now at least).

I also looked at things another way: IF I had the 2 cars parked in front of me, which one would I choose? Which one would make me happy out-of-the-box. The answer would be the OG M2.

Why? Well the more I look at the Comp, as much as it's "better", "faster", "newer", "more of a proper M Car", there is still too much wrong with it, haha.

The OG M2 I could take and enjoy looking at it, driving it, maintaining it, etc. Everything is right, it really isn't necessary to change anything (M Perf exhaust would be nice, but it's not required). Yes please...

With the Comp, I would want to change the wheels (to CS wheels, or even OG wheels). The rear exhaust box looks like a giant udder hanging out the ass, so that would annoy me and I would want to change that, purely for aesthetics (if it were to improve the S55 Sound, that would be a bonus). Even with just these 2 things, this is 50k, or maybe 100k on top of the purchase price, just to curb my irritation and dismay.

In conclusion, if you are in the market, I would most certainly not dismiss the OG M2, it delivers a driving experience that thrills and touches all your senses in a positive way. It is fun, and not stupidly fast or scary, and you won't be frowning and cringing from S55 exhaust sounds. That being said, if you are a driver that can extract 10/10ths out of a vehicle, and if you want the ultimate M2, that does everything faster, and is maybe more clinical or surgical in execution, then the Comp is worth considering.

This is a lovely explanation. I myself love the OG M2. The sound is amazing. The only reason I asked the question is that I already have an n55 (pwg f20) and this is lifetime car. It will die with me.

So logically, My Next car is an M car. M2 is logical for me as it pretty much the same interior so nothing new to get used to.

So I am not a fan of the s58 m3/M4 so logically, I am not a fan of the s55 M2 but ondo love the front bumper. Leaning towards og M2 purely for the sounds. Seats can always be upgraded for oohs and aahs. As well as the front bumper with the grills. Lol

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[NAS325ci]

Get the s55.

 

[AshG108]

This is a lovely explanation. I myself love the OG M2. The sound is amazing. The only reason I asked the question is that I already have an n55 (pwg f20) and this is lifetime car. It will die with me.

So logically, My Next car is an M car. M2 is logical for me as it pretty much the same interior so nothing new to get used to.

So I am not a fan of the s58 m3/M4 so logically, I am not a fan of the s55 M2 but ondo love the front bumper. Leaning towards og M2 purely for the sounds. Seats can always be upgraded for oohs and aahs. As well as the front bumper with the grills. Lol

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I had the exact same thoughts about it being the same as out M135is BUT until you drive it, you will not think it is an N55 under there with the sound and power delivery.

I easily humbled a good few of the OG M2s...but that is from robot to robot however anything longer, they have some long legs and they start catching fast. The burps, farts and lift-off sounds together with the delivery somehow will just deliver another chapter to you enjoyment.

I was humbled when behind the steering wheel of one of the OG M2s. No disrespect for me afterwards lol. And actually having an engine you already know well is a bonus when it comes time for maintenance as well.

 

[AshG108]

@Rishie Rish - you went through a similar debacle before getting your M2 Comp, anything to add?

 

[Holiman]

Question: are the diffs the same in both cars?

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[PsyCLown]

It is actually interesting reading the experiences of those who have driven a car with the N55 and the M2 (N55).
I have not driven either so my opinion is worth less I am sure however I have always had a soft spot for the M2 / M2 competition and for me it comes down to the simple fact that buying an M car and not getting a proper M engine just does not feel right. Therefore if I were to ever purchase an M2 I would want it to be an M2 Competition simply to get the S55.

I get that the N55 in the M2 is different to the N55 in the 35i cars and even down on power compared to the F26 X4 M40i.
I get that an M235i / M240i and the M2 (N55) are not the same either.
However the N55 is still an engine which is shared with many other cars of which none of the other cars are M cars.

I still can't get over the fact that in the M2 you "only" get the N55. Even with the S55 being slightly down in power in the M2 compared to the M3/M4.

 

[VinceM]

Would be nice to run a poll on this.

S55>N55
Comp>OG

Opinions might differ, but Comp is better ito Power, Handling, Speed, I also like the looks

The only let down is exhaust note, which you can sort out


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[Holiman]

Would be nice to run a poll on this.

S55>N55
Comp>OG

Opinions might differ, but Comp is better ito Power, Handling, Speed, I also like the looks

The only let down is exhaust note, which you can sort out


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With a single turbo

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[TurboLlew]

This is a lovely explanation. I myself love the OG M2. The sound is amazing. The only reason I asked the question is that I already have an n55 (pwg f20) and this is lifetime car. It will die with me.

So logically, My Next car is an M car. M2 is logical for me as it pretty much the same interior so nothing new to get used to.

So I am not a fan of the s58 m3/M4 so logically, I am not a fan of the s55 M2 but ondo love the front bumper. Leaning towards og M2 purely for the sounds. Seats can always be upgraded for oohs and aahs. As well as the front bumper with the grills. Lol

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If you are very satisfied with your N55 based car, is your next logical choice really an M2? or perhaps something else that is going to give you a proper change and improvement in dynamics? Perhaps something from Stuttgart with a mid/rear engine?

I think I've mentioned before that most x35 and x40 owners don't often 'upgrade' to the same tier of M (well they don't seem to anyway)

 

[Dragon_ZA]

I have been looking at the same options. But I’m being drawn to the S58 more and more. Anyone experienced the S58 vs S55?

 

[YozTruly]

I haven’t driven any of these cars so take this for what it is. I am a big fan of the M2 Comp. I see it as a big visual improvement to the already beautiful OG M2. BMW really didn’t do the OG interior justice. Giving it ordinary seats and an old school cluster makes it look dated. There are enough pull factors to make the M2 Comp more appealing including the carbon strut brace under the hood. Looks a little bit more special to me.

I must be deaf though as I have tried to listen to sound comparisons online and I can hardly tell them apart. Maybe I would fair better if the cars were in front of me.

What I can say though is the Long Beach Blue on the OG M2 is unmatched while the M2 Comp seems to shine in Hockenheim Silver. I cannot seem to “fall in love” with the other colours on either.

 

[r0ckf1re]

It’s really pointless getting into another N55 even though it’s Labelled as an “M” car.

I had the M135i 3 Door, it sounded great and was fun to drive. It felt quick, fairly exciting until I got my 440i.

You rather get into something with a B58 if you don’t like the M2 comp.

If it were me, M2 comp all day, every day! It’s a beautiful car.


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[TBP88]

M2comp is obscenely fast in a straight line. I've never driven a normal M2 but I'd choose comp because I think the rims are cooler and because "S" engine code.

Also, I'd be getting weary now of the OG M2s, some of them are ages out of plan, mods, hooning and general abuse is gonna catch up with a lot of them. Most comps are either just out of or still on plan.

 

[AudiDriver]

Allow me to add my perspective purely from the point of view of M2 Comp owner.

The state of tune of the standard car feels as if it is reigned in. Adding an ECU tune with CS map really suits it much better. I’ve run stage 1 maps on mine and feel the low down torque is much too aggressive for the standard suspension and tyres and that the OE type maps suit it well.

Mine has a KW V1 suspension which is the same as BMW M Sport suspension. This really tamed the rear of the car and allows for slides that are more predictable and controllable. It turned a car that could be scary to drive fast around town into a fun car to drive fast and gave it a more playful character without the bite.

I don’t care for the M Sport exhaust. While I prefer the look of it to the OE one that comes standard with the car - specifically the carbon tips (which can be added) and the smaller real silencer (replacing the cow udder) I son’t think it sounds any better, only louder. There are plenty S55s in our neighbourhood and most of them have modified exhausts and I listen to these every weekend racing down Nic Diedericks and I remain completely unimpressed by their vulgar noise. That said I don’t think there is anything wrong with the sound and character of the S55 compared to N55. When you hear it you immediately know what it is and I love the sound, which reminds me of the bark of a Rottweiler compared to the N55 which you hear plenty of and many of them plenty loud and still no more impressive to me personally.

I can’t give my personal comparison to the new M2, because I haven’t driven one and I also don’t care to drive one as it is heaver than the previous Gen S55 M3 and about the same size but reported to be less fun to drive and less involving. It is a straight line monster and a bahn stormer for sure with plenty of torque to hit hard, but that doesn’t feature high on my list of priorities for a car like this.

I’ve owned mine since 2019 / 20 000km. It is as near a fun car as can be had for the money and enough to keep me from buying a Cayman.

What I like most:
- fun and controllable oversteer in M mode
- grunt at any rpm with minimal turbo lag
- the KW suspension dynamics
- the ability to turn it from fun to scary in less than 3 minutes
- having more than 340 kW available in a car that can be driven every day
- overtaking slow traffic
- back round or highway blasts
- DCT in efficient mode and steering in comfort
- the characteristic S55 engine / exhaust sound
- the M Performance brakes (with braided lines added as well as proper fluid)
- carplay
- HK sound

What I don’t like so much:
- the suspension is very firm and I don’t want to fiddle with damping all the time so leave it at standard settings
- the car is low with the added carbon bits
- interior quality not at the same level as my fiancé’s S3 of the same year
- DCT - I would have preferred this in manual and I would have enjoyed it more for that. It can be driven in manual mode of course and it the gearbox is very quick and efficient, but not driving it enough sometimes have me forgetting that I’m in manual and not in auto, which really sounds silly
- the s-tronic gearbox on the S3 seems more intuitive than BMW’s attempt
- it isn’t as settled at speed on roads with poor surface conditions as a conparable Audi model - I suppose that is true of most BMW cars as I have experienced it with other models as well

What I would change:
- replace the Michellin SS with Cup 2 tyres
- I replaced the charge pipes with anodized aluminium

I replace the oil and filter every 6 months / 6000km whichever comes first. I regard this as essential maintenance on these cars.

I use 5 litres ethanol to each tank as I believe it is better for the car than standard 95 octane only.

I don’t consider the OG model so be superior in any way. I think it is a bit less of an M car in every way compared to the Comp. That doesn’t mean I knock it - I think it is plenty good, but the Comp is that bit better in everything for me.

I still think it the best M car BMW has built in the last decade or more.


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[dvst8]

Dont get the M235i, get the M2 (Comp)

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️

 

[FiRi@Rennzport]

Dont get the M235i, get the M2 (Comp)

dead