Well, it seems that my comment about the interiors is the main talking point so far...! I know that accepted wisdom is that Audi does the better interiors and (subjectively) I still think the Audi's interior looks much nicer. However, objectively, getting out of one and into the other and doing that all day long, there was no question in my mind that the materials and general quality of the BMW felt much better. I can only call it as I see it and I admit it caught me by surprise, but that's the beauty of doing proper head-to-head tests - you get the chance to really assess things. Glad you all seem to like the film apart from that - they really are great cars.
Henry Catchpole great video henry and what sets u apart is that ur observations often stand out from the rest. Which one would you spend your money on?
M2 interior might feel better but it certainly doesn’t look as good as the cabin of an RS3, no bucket seats, centre console is of an old design, no virtual cockpit or anything. First thing that catches your sight is the visuals of an interior. There are much more hard plastics used in the bmw than compared to Audi. M2 may be a nicely built cabin but then again it ain’t a day and night difference over the rs3, especially considering the interior looks way better in the rs3.
I still don’t understand why people compare these two cars. I’m a BMW and Audi fan. Heck I love all German cars, mainly Porsche. One is a 2 Door, rear drive with small back seat and is poor in the rain and snow. It’s a much harsher suspension that feels all the bumps. The other is an all wheel drive 4 door. It is amazing in the snow and the speed that you can carry in the pouring rain with confidence is amazing. The suspension is great on bumpy roads. The M2 is a very fun car on the back roads. Loved it! On the highway, the steering ratio makes it a little jumpy from lane to lane. Don’t sneeze. Haha. Great sounding car too. It’s a car you drive on the weekend, park in the garage during bad weather, and take to the track occasionally. The RS3 is built more for the road and for people who still want fast, but still comfortable. They are not looking for a track car. Just a fun fast car for the streets. Launch control is viscous and puts a smile on your face. Light to light is fast and it literally takes a super car to beat you off the line. The RS is also a great car if you want to go drag racing. Stock they pull 11.7 to 12 flat. A tune and downpipe will put you in high 10’s. Very insane! Oh and the sound of the 5 is incredible. Hank IROZ has a Turbo to bolt on that will run 9’s on stock block. RIDICULOUS! It’s an Epic engine. The DSG is also a super fast shifting transmission. Worst thing of the RS3 is the shitty Pirelli tires they put on, where the M2 has nice Michelin tires. Tires are everything. Put a stiffer suspension in the RS and it will be capable of track too. They both are great cars and it was hard to pick between them. If it’s your only car, the RS3 wins. If you’re looking for a second fun car the M2 is a winner. I wish I could have both, but I needed one car. The RS3 came home with me. Love every bit of it. Neither are losers. Just totally different cars.
Ryan the Boston Detailer about half of M2’s delivered now are coming with ten year old design Continentals. Otherwise your post is pretty spot on. The cars are compared because of price range I guess.
Those cars are compared because they are the entry-level-cars of their badges. However, I am really happy that they are THAT different. While more and more cars (manufacturers) try to be like one another, it's refreshing to see that with some cars, the manufacturers just do their thing. So everyone gets to pick his favourite car.
Various Audis and M2 owner here, totally agree with your comment. I found too they are very different cars, and shouldn't be directly compared. RS3 has superb engine/noise and practicability, more comfortable. M2 is more of a focused sport car with superb chasis and enough power, require more skills to drive and more fun.
Ryan the Boston Detailergreat to read a comment that didn't go grr BMW or pht Audi as most seem to attract polar views that tend to turn me off, I drive an S5 Audi previous cars M3/RS4 the M3 was 2 door and the S5 is the Sportback model (I have 9 year old now... need the doors!)
Well, granted it's not an apples to apples comparison in the purpose of the cars, but they cost about they same, both are entry points into the performance division of luxury German cars, and both are good fun to drive. You can bet that someone with $60,000 to spend on such a car will cross shop the two, weighing out what they like and don't like about these two very different, yet similar cars.
Sandouras I think you are moron without a taste so shut up. You could write better example then some shitty sunding straight six or Ferrari V8... For example NA V12 Ferrari tthat sound special. The best sounding Porsche is Panamera V8 Audi engine.
Sandouras we are talking about sound you idiot. As typical moron you have problems with thinking. Porsche is known that they can make even a boxer engine sounds boring. Subaru boxers sounds much better even with only 4 cylinders.
Just bought a 2016 M2, 1 owner, low mileage, mint condition. I looked at the RS3, looked at the A45S (my last car was a tuned M140i), but there is nothing quite like a finely balanced RWD M car. I genuinely think the OG M2 is one of the best looking cars of all time, it's proportions are perfect, it's stance is perfect, and it is destined to be a future legendary classic.
After watching this specific video (and a few others) well over a hundred times. I went a bought a M2, Manual. I absolutely love it. But for some weird reason I still come and watch M2 videos... Thanks Henry. Great reviews :)
Excellent video by Mr Catchpole, as always. For a daily driver I would prefer the RS3 but for a track toy then I would take the M2. I don't think there is a "wrong" answer between those two cars and I would gladly have either one in my driveway.
I made a horrible mistake and ventured into the comments section, now I feel lobotomised. Kids, drive both and buy the one which YOU like the most. Not everyone drives the same roads, drives the same way or appreciates the same aesthetics, it never ceases to amaze me how titled people get about subjective matters.
They *should* ditch that turbo-charged V6 that they tune to snooze-worthy numbers (354 and 444 HP in the S5 and RS5, respectively) and just drop in this 5-cylinder. It is lighter, it makes more power than the S5's turbo V6, and can be easily configured to make more power than the RS5's twin-turbo V6.
Nah i wouldnt want audi to do that. Audi has a totally different approach on its cars compared to bmw while Bmw focuses to be a track weapon, audi focuses on making a super fast car easy to drive for everyone including amateur drivers. This is why you will always find audis to have better suspension pliancy and better comfort besides audis tend to have better sound insulation. So bmw will be bmw and audi will just stay audi
I have owed both. Audi was great....safe, stable and great family car. Now the kids have flown the nest...swopped it for BMW...for thrill and fun. Fabulous steering.
Look guys, these are two very different cars. The BMW M2 is designed for robust track use. The Audi RS3 is basically a city car with an aggressive engine tune. In other words, you can take the M2 to the track and have an afternoon of driving fun and not worry about any mechanical issues. The RS3 is perfect for hauling around you and your wife plus a kid and a small dog. Throw in a couple of stoplight sprints for fun but please don’t take Audi to the track. After 30 minutes, the RS3’s brake pedal would go to the floor and the little 5 popper would overheat and probably blow a gasket. So keep it real and use each for what they are designed for.
I own a new RS3 and absolutely love it,but I also love the look of the M2(never driven one),now I’m not the worlds best driver and most of my driving is as a commuter and I just love the safety net that Quattro gives me,I think I would get myself into trouble in the M2.
Good comparison! Both are great cars but I would have chosen the M2 also. Yes I'm biased because I own one, but despite being very close, the M2 is being touted as the best drivers car in the entire current M lineup. The 0-60mph time is actually closer to 4.2-4.3 sec with the manual so that closes the gap there some.
When they always tie the manual option to poverty-spec cars, you're damn straight nobody buys them. Here in the US, the Genesis G70 is only available with a manual if you also get the base everything else. Meanwhile, in Canada, you can spec the manual with the nice interior if you want. It's bullshit; if I wanted a manual in a car with a modest interior, I'd go buy a Golf R, a Camaro, a Mustang, or any number of cars that are much better performers for the price than a damn 2.0T with a mediocre 250 HP and only comparable handling. The typical alternative is that the manual is available only to the stratospheric options, which is similarly bullshit. Thank the powers that the Corvette, 718, M240i, and M2 exist with manuals in the mid-upper performance bracket, but I'd definitely have bought an S3 or RS3 with a manual if it existed for us.
I love both cars. The N55 in the M2 is a stunning engine and with a nice ‘zorst, it can sound even better than it already does, however the engine in the RS3... wow, I’d almost want that car just to own and run that engine - what a thing!! For me, overall the M2 does it for me as a driving enthusiast. It ticks all the boxes 😃
The majority of people who buy M cars have no idea how to drive them and are usually devoid of driving talent. This normally results in oversteering off roads and ploughing into trees, or worse still, crashing into other cars. So for normal road use in the UK, the M2 is almost pointless for most people, most of the year (in the wet). That's just reality.
The M2s interior is better? You must be joking Audi makes some of the best interiors on the market. I’m not much for Audi save this glorious five cylinder model but those interiors are gorgeous
Chris Dooley he said the bmw m2 feels better QUALITY and you did not listen well or just stupid. Because you find the audi interiour looking better that does not mean the quality is also better.
Still, perhaps in this segment, the 2 Series is better built than the Audi? You know that they do cheapen the cars the lower you get and obviously the A3 doesnt have the built quality of the A8.
no it doesn't, it feels 10 years old in there, the quality is OK, but its not upto scratch for such an expensive car. The RS3's interior feels like its worth its price.
I've always found the comparison an odd one. Both are mid/premium level German car marque's, but beside that, they serve different needs. BMW have the tight, precise, rwd market covered. Audi approach the market as the awd, accessible speed machine for all weathers and conditions. Every review says this, and every review will keep saying this, so what's the point in drawing such an obvious conclusion? Next up, the new mclaren is faster than skodas new hatchback?
Exactly, if you go into a review expecting drivers cars, of course the RWD, manual car will win. I guess they get compared because they are similar in price, although performance wise the RS3 is competing against much more expensive competition performance wise. Especially when tuning comes into it.
Straight line speed is so fucking boring, just buy a Golf and Stage it. The M2 still beats the RS3 on tight twisted circuits, so there's half of your theory banish into thin air.
bongmistt who actually cares about a twisty circuit? Come on... these are road cars and will spend 99.9% of their time being given a hard time in a straight line and that’s it. Stage 1 on the RS3 and it’s 480bhp anyway....
It’s slightly heart breaking that Audi gone full on boring, in my book it’s got nothing going for it and on top of that no manual option On the other hand Bmw has hit on one of all time greats, a car that will be remembered, it strongly reminded me of e46 M3 well balanced confidence inspiring drivers car that draws you in for unlimited amount of driving pleasure even if you didn’t go for it (I own an Audi)
NutriFIT nutritie si fitnes I do also live in the real world and I totally get where are you coming from with what you said and partially agree too, a specially with the idea how far the automatic transmissions have come and all of the benefits they provide, in end of the day it comes to personal preference And to me Auto just simply doesn’t make sense in a car of this type and size (RS6, S8, 7series yeah any time of the week but not RS3)
I agree slightly; HOWEVER, In day-to-day situations, that's where the Audi saves the day. Audi blends performance and sportiness at your command whereas the BMW is an every-day driver. Put it like this; Audi is the Lifestyle whereas BMW is the Hobby. As an Audi owner, you should know that even the normal Audi's are much more fun to driver than the normal BMWs today...
Aidas Martinkus why limousines can get better tech and smaller cars not? I'm all about sports driving that's why I take modern DSG/zf over shitty manual.
As Jeremy said the m2 is the best m car bmw ever made, but that RS3 is a beast, the engine is just insane, both in launch and roll race audi wins easy, 8V RS3 is going 700 bhp on stock internals, so the RS3 is the best, i mean m2 is a 2 door, AUDi 4 door sedan, so once more RS3 is better.
Thank God we still have cars like these that still inspire debate and arguments, just like the M3 and RS4 did years ago and their predecessors before that.
Wolverine is the consummate motoring journo out there. Truly the best, no frills, no attitude just the plain truth and passion. Leaves others in his wake, just wanting.
You should’ve tested both of them in the snow or rainy weather. The BMW is arguably better in “good” conditions but realistically, these will be rarely met. I’d take the RS3 for its versatility, sound, built quality over the M2 without hesitation.
BMW always nail the looks of their special cars. Audi, well they're constantly dropping the ball. You'd be hard pushed to tell the RS cars against the S models. BMW on the other hand, there's never any doubt that what you're looking at is the M cars. AMAZING location for the film though, what a backdrop!
Stage 1 tune on the RS3/TTRS is 505HP / 496LB-FT without any intake or downpipe. The M2 doesn't tune nearly as well, only seeing 70/70 gains from stage 2 tunes out there. The RS3 with a $950 tune is game over for the M2. Not to mention there's a guy running 9.8 quarter miles with an APR tuned RS3. No official tunes released from them, yet.
If I were to pick a daily driver I'll pick the RS3 in a heartbeat. Not sure what you meant with the BMW having the better interior. They look really dull compared to Audi's.
interior is more than just looks especially when it comes from luxury brands like bmw and audi. build quality is a huge factor and bmw has a better quality interior
Any idea which road this was shot on? Looks amazing. He said South Wales but it didn’t look like the Black Mountain Pass. You were lucky as hell with the weather shooting this.
A winning formula would be M2 exterior, RS3 interior, RS3 engine and sound, and M2's RWD handling/steering. Then give buyers the choice between DCT or manual. That's the absolute perfect car!!
BMW in general is ahead in terms of feel at the wheel, balance of the car and sheer fun. You know exactly what the wheels are doing, it's like super sensitive. With Audi it's a different philosophy, you can hardly feel the road, you're less in contact with the chassis, you're more isolated from all, sitting in your cabin comfortably numb.
potatohead3333 I drive an E92 330i from 2007 and it has plenty of feel. You notice all the road imperfections. I also have a SEAT Leon CupraR mk1 from 2003 (based on an Audi S3) and there is a lot less feel at the wheel.
I turned down an M235i for an S3. Why? Because the BMW was built like a tank and offered no feedback at all but the S3 felt alive and playful. Ironic? I thought so, too.
I have one, they will smoke an M2. An 18 TTRS, is a little demon spawn of a car. Turn off the traction control and pitch it hard (maybe even a bit of a flick), the rear end will come out, then punch (and don't be gentle) out of the other side of the corner. It will just hook up even with some pretty large slip angles. While you are doing all this that five cylinder is spitting and hissing at you. Quite a lot of fun. Surprised Harry didn't get to the dark side of the RS, cause it's there.
I highly doubt that the TT RS "will smoke an M2". Different german car-magazines had them pitched against each other on different tracks. At the end of the day, both are more or less equally fast. One is faster on track A, one on track B. However, almost every magazine states that the RS is a very good car but the M2 is quite frankly the more enjoyable drivers car, more emotional and is more fun to drive. And the M2 won all of those head-2-heads. (and yes, I'm still talking about the comparison with the TT RS) Fun-fact: The optional ceramic-brakes of the TT RS were critizied for their poor performance in every single test. So while the Audi is accelerates faster in a straight line, the BMW stops faster (not only in a straight line).
Audi interiors are generally nicer but the 8v a3/s3/rs3 really shows that it is the entry level model by it's interior layout. It's closer to a chevy cavalier than an a4. on the 2-series, there's little to no difference in the materials and layout compared to the 3/4-series cars.
by any chance do you remember what road you drove on? i live in south wales see and i've explored the Brecon beacons and found some wonderful roads however that one road is STUNNING!
as a 4WD sedan owner, i'd say M2 is a far more desirable car. it has the right amount of comfort, power and playfulness. i had an opportunity to drive some Audi RS and Volvo Polestar models around local track back in 2015. wasn't impressed one bit with the handling. heavy understeers everywhere i turn. suddenly my stock Ralliart didn't feel like shit to drive anymore.
Terry Foldy Holes technically it’s the same system but it’s like saying the engine is the same. It’s completely different both in hardware and software. It is proactive, not reactive. It is never fwd only. Larger rear diff unit. Engine is 60 lbs lighter, gun drilled crank and front axles. New stronger seven speed dct, bigger turbo. Staggered tires. Audi Sport is only two years old and not messing around any more.
I have an M2, but I have a winter car as well because honestly I am not brave enough. If I have only one car that fits all my needs everyday I would probably pick the Audi. For a non-daily, I think the biggest advantage Audi has is that sound from the 5 cylinder... Like many others I prefer the Audi’s interior, too. However I wonder how many purchase deductions for either car were based on the interior quality.
My choice would be M2 as well. Looks better, drives better. The RS3 is a better daily driver but its a bit dull. The M2 feels special despite costing under 50k.
Good review. The M2 may not, on paper, be the quickest or most advanced from an engineering perspective, but it has what many modern cars lack - character. Is it the best M car ever? Maybe. I’m still not sure it can steal the Z4M Coupe’s crown for sheer fun factor but it’s growing on me. The M2 is a undoubtedly a modern classic as a driver’s car and it has real personality.
One of my neighboirs has a Long Beach Blue M2. It does look and sound very good. Not that I can afford one, but I do wish it came with a bigger range of interior colours. The option of black or black isn't really good enough.
"Henry Catchpole compares".......enough to leave everything and watch the video.....
Henry Catchpole is enough :)
If I could have it my way I’d take the M2 for summer and RS3 for winter. M2 is tops for me on looks.
Well, it seems that my comment about the interiors is the main talking point so far...! I know that accepted wisdom is that Audi does the better interiors and (subjectively) I still think the Audi's interior looks much nicer. However, objectively, getting out of one and into the other and doing that all day long, there was no question in my mind that the materials and general quality of the BMW felt much better. I can only call it as I see it and I admit it caught me by surprise, but that's the beauty of doing proper head-to-head tests - you get the chance to really assess things. Glad you all seem to like the film apart from that - they really are great cars.
Don't worry about it. You review the cars... and we'll get the warriors to review the build quality of their keyboards.
Henry Catchpole great video henry and what sets u apart is that ur observations often stand out from the rest. Which one would you spend your money on?
M2 interior might feel better but it certainly doesn’t look as good as the cabin of an RS3, no bucket seats, centre console is of an old design, no virtual cockpit or anything. First thing that catches your sight is the visuals of an interior. There are much more hard plastics used in the bmw than compared to Audi. M2 may be a nicely built cabin but then again it ain’t a day and night difference over the rs3, especially considering the interior looks way better in the rs3.
thug898 if he tell that plastic fake carbon in the M2 is better quality then just ignore that biased bmw moron journalist.
thug898 well he disagrees with you
One thing we can all agree upon - the prices have certainly grown-up.
Or you simply need a better job ;)
This comment didn’t age well
I still don’t understand why people compare these two cars. I’m a BMW and Audi fan. Heck I love all German cars, mainly Porsche.
One is a 2 Door, rear drive with small back seat and is poor in the rain and snow. It’s a much harsher suspension that feels all the bumps.
The other is an all wheel drive 4 door. It is amazing in the snow and the speed that you can carry in the pouring rain with confidence is amazing. The suspension is great on bumpy roads.
The M2 is a very fun car on the back roads. Loved it! On the highway, the steering ratio makes it a little jumpy from lane to lane. Don’t sneeze. Haha. Great sounding car too. It’s a car you drive on the weekend, park in the garage during bad weather, and take to the track occasionally.
The RS3 is built more for the road and for people who still want fast, but still comfortable. They are not looking for a track car. Just a fun fast car for the streets. Launch control is viscous and puts a smile on your face. Light to light is fast and it literally takes a super car to beat you off the line.
The RS is also a great car if you want to go drag racing. Stock they pull 11.7 to 12 flat. A tune and downpipe will put you in high 10’s. Very insane! Oh and the sound of the 5 is incredible. Hank IROZ has a Turbo to bolt on that will run 9’s on stock block. RIDICULOUS! It’s an Epic engine. The DSG is also a super fast shifting transmission.
Worst thing of the RS3 is the shitty Pirelli tires they put on, where the M2 has nice Michelin tires. Tires are everything. Put a stiffer suspension in the RS and it will be capable of track too.
They both are great cars and it was hard to pick between them. If it’s your only car, the RS3 wins. If you’re looking for a second fun car the M2 is a winner.
I wish I could have both, but I needed one car. The RS3 came home with me. Love every bit of it.
Neither are losers. Just totally different cars.
Ryan the Boston Detailer about half of M2’s delivered now are coming with ten year old design Continentals. Otherwise your post is pretty spot on. The cars are compared because of price range I guess.
Those cars are compared because they are the entry-level-cars of their badges. However, I am really happy that they are THAT different. While more and more cars (manufacturers) try to be like one another, it's refreshing to see that with some cars, the manufacturers just do their thing. So everyone gets to pick his favourite car.
Various Audis and M2 owner here, totally agree with your comment. I found too they are very different cars, and shouldn't be directly compared. RS3 has superb engine/noise and practicability, more comfortable. M2 is more of a focused sport car with superb chasis and enough power, require more skills to drive and more fun.
Ryan the Boston Detailergreat to read a comment that didn't go grr BMW or pht Audi as most seem to attract polar views that tend to turn me off, I drive an S5 Audi previous cars M3/RS4 the M3 was 2 door and the S5 is the Sportback model (I have 9 year old now... need the doors!)
Well, granted it's not an apples to apples comparison in the purpose of the cars, but they cost about they same, both are entry points into the performance division of luxury German cars, and both are good fun to drive. You can bet that someone with $60,000 to spend on such a car will cross shop the two, weighing out what they like and don't like about these two very different, yet similar cars.
I'll be honest, I've started watching all your videos now Catchpole's in them.
I'll be honest as well: yes.
Please don't lie to youtube.
That 5 cylinder note is unbeatable!
Even by a V8 or V12? Relax man.
Sandouras only V10 can beat R5.
Sandouras i'm really starting to wonder how old you are, since you are taking my comment very literally...
Sandouras I think you are moron without a taste so shut up. You could write better example then some shitty sunding straight six or Ferrari V8... For example NA V12 Ferrari tthat sound special. The best sounding Porsche is Panamera V8 Audi engine.
Sandouras we are talking about sound you idiot. As typical moron you have problems with thinking.
Porsche is known that they can make even a boxer engine sounds boring. Subaru boxers sounds much better even with only 4 cylinders.
An RS3 for a daily drive and an M2 for weekends would be a great situation to find yourself in.
Just bought a 2016 M2, 1 owner, low mileage, mint condition.
I looked at the RS3, looked at the A45S (my last car was a tuned M140i), but there is nothing quite like a finely balanced RWD M car.
I genuinely think the OG M2 is one of the best looking cars of all time, it's proportions are perfect, it's stance is perfect, and it is destined to be a future legendary classic.
After watching this specific video (and a few others) well over a hundred times. I went a bought a M2, Manual. I absolutely love it. But for some weird reason I still come and watch M2 videos... Thanks Henry. Great reviews :)
Excellent video by Mr Catchpole, as always. For a daily driver I would prefer the RS3 but for a track toy then I would take the M2. I don't think there is a "wrong" answer between those two cars and I would gladly have either one in my driveway.
I made a horrible mistake and ventured into the comments section, now I feel lobotomised. Kids, drive both and buy the one which YOU like the most. Not everyone drives the same roads, drives the same way or appreciates the same aesthetics, it never ceases to amaze me how titled people get about subjective matters.
Now if only Audi would get around to making a dedicated, lightweight rwd sports car chassis to use that beautiful 5cyl in..
They won't the whole industry already tends to make variable 4w. drives.
They *should* ditch that turbo-charged V6 that they tune to snooze-worthy numbers (354 and 444 HP in the S5 and RS5, respectively) and just drop in this 5-cylinder. It is lighter, it makes more power than the S5's turbo V6, and can be easily configured to make more power than the RS5's twin-turbo V6.
Nah i wouldnt want audi to do that. Audi has a totally different approach on its cars compared to bmw while Bmw focuses to be a track weapon, audi focuses on making a super fast car easy to drive for everyone including amateur drivers. This is why you will always find audis to have better suspension pliancy and better comfort besides audis tend to have better sound insulation. So bmw will be bmw and audi will just stay audi
Carfection just keeps getting better! Well done to the whole team for making the viewing experience extra special
Who else loves it when the thumbnail delivers everything it entails? ☺️👍🏼
Been waiting for someone to do this video for so long. Even better it is Henry and Carfection. Both great cars!
Having both would be better than having a single car like a 911, AMG gts or Aston. Audi for daily use and road trips. M2 for driving therapy.
Why does Henry always look like he's trying to figure out who touched his spaghett with those shoulders?
It's weird isn't it? I need to try and stop doing that.
Haahhaahhah im dead
You guys are my favorite car TH-cam channel. Keep up the great work, the video quality is top notch!
I have owed both. Audi was great....safe, stable and great family car. Now the kids have flown the nest...swopped it for BMW...for thrill and fun. Fabulous steering.
Great review - calling objectivity and subjectivity what it is.
Still by far the best motoring journalist around. Always well observed, filmed and articulated. Keep up the great work Mr Catchpole!
Great comparison! I must admit I'd choose the RS3 though. Sportback version in Nardo Grey. Pure love!
Look guys, these are two very different cars. The BMW M2 is designed for robust track use. The Audi RS3 is basically a city car with an aggressive engine tune. In other words, you can take the M2 to the track and have an afternoon of driving fun and not worry about any mechanical issues. The RS3 is perfect for hauling around you and your wife plus a kid and a small dog. Throw in a couple of stoplight sprints for fun but please don’t take Audi to the track. After 30 minutes, the RS3’s brake pedal would go to the floor and the little 5 popper would overheat and probably blow a gasket. So keep it real and use each for what they are designed for.
Thanks for putting Henry's name in the title, now I know the video is worth watching
I own a new RS3 and absolutely love it,but I also love the look of the M2(never driven one),now I’m not the worlds best driver and most of my driving is as a commuter and I just love the safety net that Quattro gives me,I think I would get myself into trouble in the M2.
M2 wins against the RS3
RS3 wins against real world.
Ill have the loser anytime any day, sound alone won my heart
ikr, in the real world RS3 is the best.
Excellent as ever, these films just get better and Henry is top notch
"Which one is the winner? You are, Which ever one you choose to drive."
Simple the m2 steal the heart every time u see it
Good comparison! Both are great cars but I would have chosen the M2 also. Yes I'm biased because I own one, but despite being very close, the M2 is being touted as the best drivers car in the entire current M lineup. The 0-60mph time is actually closer to 4.2-4.3 sec with the manual so that closes the gap there some.
I love how everyone claims to love manuals yet all the manufacturers show that no one buys them.
When they always tie the manual option to poverty-spec cars, you're damn straight nobody buys them. Here in the US, the Genesis G70 is only available with a manual if you also get the base everything else. Meanwhile, in Canada, you can spec the manual with the nice interior if you want. It's bullshit; if I wanted a manual in a car with a modest interior, I'd go buy a Golf R, a Camaro, a Mustang, or any number of cars that are much better performers for the price than a damn 2.0T with a mediocre 250 HP and only comparable handling. The typical alternative is that the manual is available only to the stratospheric options, which is similarly bullshit. Thank the powers that the Corvette, 718, M240i, and M2 exist with manuals in the mid-upper performance bracket, but I'd definitely have bought an S3 or RS3 with a manual if it existed for us.
That plus the fact most don't know how to drive a manual (like myself).
2 out of 8 cars I’ve owned have been autos.
I love both cars. The N55 in the M2 is a stunning engine and with a nice ‘zorst, it can sound even better than it already does, however the engine in the RS3... wow, I’d almost want that car just to own and run that engine - what a thing!! For me, overall the M2 does it for me as a driving enthusiast. It ticks all the boxes 😃
They are actually my entry level dream cars， thanks for doing a comparsion
Great review very professional top gear standards definitely 👏🏽👊🏽🥂
The majority of people who buy M cars have no idea how to drive them and are usually devoid of driving talent. This normally results in oversteering off roads and ploughing into trees, or worse still, crashing into other cars. So for normal road use in the UK, the M2 is almost pointless for most people, most of the year (in the wet). That's just reality.
Most people who drive BMWs are devoid of driving skills!
every BMW with i6 petrol engine and RWD will be always a winner. When RWD and inline 6 cylinder petrol engines will end = BMW will end.
Wow. Great video. All was perfect.
Beautiful cars, both unique and in their own world
6MT + RWD. That is all.
+piped in engine sound+non-defeatable rev match. Lol
Bloody love you Henry! Why can't all car journalists be more like you and Chris Harris pre Top Gear?!
The M2s interior is better? You must be joking Audi makes some of the best interiors on the market. I’m not much for Audi save this glorious five cylinder model but those interiors are gorgeous
Chris Dooley he said the bmw m2 feels better QUALITY and you did not listen well or just stupid. Because you find the audi interiour looking better that does not mean the quality is also better.
He's talking build quality and not looks and he's right. The Audi's cabin looks amazing but lacks the build quality of the BMW.
Andy Moffat actually it's other way. This is just shitty review.
You're fucking mental if you think that. Audi produce much, much better quality interiors than BMW and Merc.
Still, perhaps in this segment, the 2 Series is better built than the Audi? You know that they do cheapen the cars the lower you get and obviously the A3 doesnt have the built quality of the A8.
Color/lighting in the video is spot on!
M2 interior better quality than RS3? really? :D :D :D
2 absolutely amazing car!! love this little rockets
no it doesn't, it feels 10 years old in there, the quality is OK, but its not upto scratch for such an expensive car. The RS3's interior feels like its worth its price.
The LCI upped the build quality alot...
wouldnt say better then an RS3 . On Par Yes.
I just doesn't :)
RS3 looks better to my eyes. I prefer the cleaner, minimalist design language to the butch Bimmer.
I've always found the comparison an odd one. Both are mid/premium level German car marque's, but beside that, they serve different needs. BMW have the tight, precise, rwd market covered. Audi approach the market as the awd, accessible speed machine for all weathers and conditions. Every review says this, and every review will keep saying this, so what's the point in drawing such an obvious conclusion? Next up, the new mclaren is faster than skodas new hatchback?
You need more upvotes
Exactly, if you go into a review expecting drivers cars, of course the RWD, manual car will win. I guess they get compared because they are similar in price, although performance wise the RS3 is competing against much more expensive competition performance wise. Especially when tuning comes into it.
Not to mention the RS3 would absolutely batter an M2 on any road at any speed. The facelift RS3 is OUTRAGEOUS in a straight line.
Straight line speed is so fucking boring, just buy a Golf and Stage it. The M2 still beats the RS3 on tight twisted circuits, so there's half of your theory banish into thin air.
bongmistt who actually cares about a twisty circuit? Come on... these are road cars and will spend 99.9% of their time being given a hard time in a straight line and that’s it. Stage 1 on the RS3 and it’s 480bhp anyway....
It’s slightly heart breaking that Audi gone full on boring, in my book it’s got nothing going for it and on top of that no manual option
On the other hand Bmw has hit on one of all time greats, a car that will be remembered, it strongly reminded me of e46 M3 well balanced confidence inspiring drivers car that draws you in for unlimited amount of driving pleasure even if you didn’t go for it (I own an Audi)
Still 90% of the buyers take DCT M2 so purists shut up.
NutriFIT nutritie si fitnes I do also live in the real world and I totally get where are you coming from with what you said and partially agree too, a specially with the idea how far the automatic transmissions have come and all of the benefits they provide, in end of the day it comes to personal preference
And to me Auto just simply doesn’t make sense in a car of this type and size (RS6, S8, 7series yeah any time of the week but not RS3)
I agree slightly; HOWEVER, In day-to-day situations, that's where the Audi saves the day. Audi blends performance and sportiness at your command whereas the BMW is an every-day driver. Put it like this; Audi is the Lifestyle whereas BMW is the Hobby.
As an Audi owner, you should know that even the normal Audi's are much more fun to driver than the normal BMWs today...
"that Audi gone full on boring"
But they always were. Good cars, but kind of boring.
Aidas Martinkus why limousines can get better tech and smaller cars not? I'm all about sports driving that's why I take modern DSG/zf over shitty manual.
As Jeremy said the m2 is the best m car bmw ever made, but that RS3 is a beast, the engine is just insane, both in launch and roll race audi wins easy, 8V RS3 is going 700 bhp on stock internals, so the RS3 is the best, i mean m2 is a 2 door, AUDi 4 door sedan, so once more RS3 is better.
Thank God we still have cars like these that still inspire debate and arguments, just like the M3 and RS4 did years ago and their predecessors before that.
Wolverine is the consummate motoring journo out there. Truly the best, no frills, no attitude just the plain truth and passion. Leaves others in his wake, just wanting.
You chose a wet day to compare a rwd and awd car?
Hey, where is the shooting location for this video please? I would love to drive it
Where in south wales*
@@SkylineR33FTW I believe its the B4560 in S Wales
@@OhBLZD nothing like a reply to a 2y old comment haha, thank you!
Where was this recorded? Looks like an amazing road to drive on
When you said "entry level is all you need", SPOT ON!
What’s new M2 wins again
Henry just flows into the automobiles carfection getting better and better.
Ps. Your video on the R8 V10 on the Hahntennjoch Pass inspired a trip to the same place with my father for his 70th birthday. What a road!
Who cares which one won?
They're both amazing cars with differences worth paying attention to
I'd be happy with either one
You should’ve tested both of them in the snow or rainy weather. The BMW is arguably better in “good” conditions but realistically, these will be rarely met. I’d take the RS3 for its versatility, sound, built quality over the M2 without hesitation.
BMW always nail the looks of their special cars. Audi, well they're constantly dropping the ball. You'd be hard pushed to tell the RS cars against the S models. BMW on the other hand, there's never any doubt that what you're looking at is the M cars.
AMAZING location for the film though, what a backdrop!
Stage 1 tune on the RS3/TTRS is 505HP / 496LB-FT without any intake or downpipe. The M2 doesn't tune nearly as well, only seeing 70/70 gains from stage 2 tunes out there. The RS3 with a $950 tune is game over for the M2. Not to mention there's a guy running 9.8 quarter miles with an APR tuned RS3. No official tunes released from them, yet.
Boy racer talk.
What you say is irrelevant.
Spend money on driving lessons not on wasting money on tuning!
Henry - thank you from the US. Two cars I love! Question for you: RS3 and M2? Or new M5 (or AMG E63s)?
Interior of the bmw feels better quality, LOL what a troll
Great review as always
What roads was this filmed on? Somewhere in the Brecon Beacons?
If I were to pick a daily driver I'll pick the RS3 in a heartbeat. Not sure what you meant with the BMW having the better interior. They look really dull compared to Audi's.
"feels better", he was talking about build quality of it (M2), not of its looks .
It definitely doesn't feel better having sat in both
山内淳カイル Better bolted together
interior is more than just looks especially when it comes from luxury brands like bmw and audi. build quality is a huge factor and bmw has a better quality interior
Audi fan boys are so dumb they don't even understand the difference between esthetics and build quality.
Any idea which road this was shot on? Looks amazing. He said South Wales but it didn’t look like the Black Mountain Pass.
You were lucky as hell with the weather shooting this.
Where is Alex now, one of the previous presenters? I love Henry, but liked him too. Would be cool to have both doing videos.
Love your videos, so beautiful. Really capture the character and beauty of the cars we love. Thank you
A winning formula would be M2 exterior, RS3 interior, RS3 engine and sound, and M2's RWD handling/steering. Then give buyers the choice between DCT or manual. That's the absolute perfect car!!
BMW in general is ahead in terms of feel at the wheel, balance of the car and sheer fun. You know exactly what the wheels are doing, it's like super sensitive. With Audi it's a different philosophy, you can hardly feel the road, you're less in contact with the chassis, you're more isolated from all, sitting in your cabin comfortably numb.
lol at a modern car being "like super sensitive"
potatohead3333 I own a BMW, try one and see for yourself.
Compared to en E46 or a 997 the steering feel of anything built in the last six or eight years is terrible.
potatohead3333 I drive an E92 330i from 2007 and it has plenty of feel. You notice all the road imperfections. I also have a SEAT Leon CupraR mk1 from 2003 (based on an Audi S3) and there is a lot less feel at the wheel.
I turned down an M235i for an S3. Why? Because the BMW was built like a tank and offered no feedback at all but the S3 felt alive and playful. Ironic? I thought so, too.
Where was this filmed was it the brecon beacons?
Where is that road? Looks great
Wouldn't the TTRS have been a better comparison. After all they are both coupes
Del Johnson TTRS is a baby supercar i think, these are more of GT cars
Latvietis96 because it is much better that's why it costs more. But if someone want a coupe it will check M2 or the TT RS.
I have one, they will smoke an M2. An 18 TTRS, is a little demon spawn of a car. Turn off the traction control and pitch it hard (maybe even a bit of a flick), the rear end will come out, then punch (and don't be gentle) out of the other side of the corner. It will just hook up even with some pretty large slip angles. While you are doing all this that five cylinder is spitting and hissing at you. Quite a lot of fun. Surprised Harry didn't get to the dark side of the RS, cause it's there.
£50k in the UK... So M2 money.
I highly doubt that the TT RS "will smoke an M2". Different german car-magazines had them pitched against each other on different tracks. At the end of the day, both are more or less equally fast. One is faster on track A, one on track B. However, almost every magazine states that the RS is a very good car but the M2 is quite frankly the more enjoyable drivers car, more emotional and is more fun to drive. And the M2 won all of those head-2-heads. (and yes, I'm still talking about the comparison with the TT RS)
Fun-fact: The optional ceramic-brakes of the TT RS were critizied for their poor performance in every single test. So while the Audi is accelerates faster in a straight line, the BMW stops faster (not only in a straight line).
Audi interiors are generally nicer but the 8v a3/s3/rs3 really shows that it is the entry level model by it's interior layout. It's closer to a chevy cavalier than an a4. on the 2-series, there's little to no difference in the materials and layout compared to the 3/4-series cars.
Henry, did this car have the wider 255 front tyres?
Make a test in winter time or strong rain....you will see which car is the real driver's car
Beautiful cinematography. More importantly, good content. Well done.
what does "stuck into a chassis"mean? Anyone who knows it, pls tell me
Beautifully shot guys 👍🏽
by any chance do you remember what road you drove on? i live in south wales see and i've explored the Brecon beacons and found some wonderful roads however that one road is STUNNING!
as a 4WD sedan owner, i'd say M2 is a far more desirable car. it has the right amount of comfort, power and playfulness. i had an opportunity to drive some Audi RS and Volvo Polestar models around local track back in 2015. wasn't impressed one bit with the handling. heavy understeers everywhere i turn. suddenly my stock Ralliart didn't feel like shit to drive anymore.
Terry Foldy Holes Can’t compare the old cars with new - completely different.
potatohead3333 is Audi not using the same AWD system as 2015?
Terry Foldy Holes technically it’s the same system but it’s like saying the engine is the same. It’s completely different both in hardware and software. It is proactive, not reactive. It is never fwd only. Larger rear diff unit. Engine is 60 lbs lighter, gun drilled crank and front axles. New stronger seven speed dct, bigger turbo. Staggered tires. Audi Sport is only two years old and not messing around any more.
Literally have no idea why people bother comparing manual to auto. You cant do a car v car like that.
Where abouts in wales was this filmed ??
I have an M2, but I have a winter car as well because honestly I am not brave enough. If I have only one car that fits all my needs everyday I would probably pick the Audi.
For a non-daily, I think the biggest advantage Audi has is that sound from the 5 cylinder...
Like many others I prefer the Audi’s interior, too. However I wonder how many purchase deductions for either car were based on the interior quality.
My choice would be M2 as well. Looks better, drives better. The RS3 is a better daily driver but its a bit dull. The M2 feels special despite costing under 50k.
Well done Henry good review, well done team beautifully filmed
I like the Audi.
Does the tested RS3 fit the magnetic ride suspensions?
M2 completion pack I want it when comes out
Good review. The M2 may not, on paper, be the quickest or most advanced from an engineering perspective, but it has what many modern cars lack - character. Is it the best M car ever? Maybe. I’m still not sure it can steal the Z4M Coupe’s crown for sheer fun factor but it’s growing on me. The M2 is a undoubtedly a modern classic as a driver’s car and it has real personality.
the M2 has an in-line 6, less power, and more expensive? WTF?
BMW ///M2 with BMW 1M Wheels replacement = PERFECTION!!!!
Dropped all of what was being done to watch this
how does the electric steering on the m2 feel compared to older bmw's I have a 2001 330i sport
One of my neighboirs has a Long Beach Blue M2. It does look and sound very good. Not that I can afford one, but I do wish it came with a bigger range of interior colours. The option of black or black isn't really good enough.
Is the RS badge really more coveted than AMG?
Great work. Please do a comparison between RS3 and RS4.
If only TH-cam would make a separate site just for children so we could do away with 90% of the stupid comments.
You drive the BMW, the Audi you sit in and steer