Track-only BMW M2 CS Racing unveiled
As if the range-topping M2 CS road car wasn’t enough, BMW has given us a track-only variant
The highly anticipated M2 CS is finally here, marking the end of the line for the current 2-series. To ensure track-goers don’t feel left out, the marque has unveiled the M2 CS Racing, succeeding the M240i Racing. Prices for the track-only model will start from €95,000 (approx. £82,000), around the same price as for the M2 CS, and first deliveries are set to begin in mid-2020.
Aiming to provide an accomplished amateur track machine at a relatively affordable price, buyers can compete in events such as the VLN Endurance Championship Nürburgring, TC America and more. All components have been FIA certified, opening the M2 CS Racing up to plenty of opportunities.
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Under the bonnet is the same S55, twin-turbocharged in-line six-cylinder as you’ll find in the road car, but in order to meet Balance of Performance, power is restricted to between 276 and 360bhp – max torque comes in at 406lb ft, matching that of the road car. An upgrade package to give it the full 444bhp of the road car is in the pipeline, but full details are yet to be announced.
Elsewhere, you’ll find a motorsport-tuned seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, limited-slip differential with dedicated cooling, an uprated driveshaft, more free-flowing exhaust system, tweaked dampers and modified wheel bearings at the rear. The engine mount has also been fettled for efficiency, and the model even takes engine management software from the M4 GT4, making switching between profiles a less time-consuming affair. Being designed for beginners, BMW Motorsport has also included motorsport-optimised driver aids.
Should things get a little heated on track, BMW thoughtfully includes air conditioning as standard, but FIA-certified Sabelt seats (Recaros as an option) complete with six-point harnesses make it the real deal. A racing dash logger, Makrolon rear side windows and an air jack system also complete the package.
