The battle of German engineering supremacy continues with the latest iterations of the BMW M2 and Audi RS3. These renowned performance cars have long been the go-to choices for enthusiasts seeking a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance. They also represent the more affordable end of the spectrum if you want a true BMW M car or Audi RS model, distilling the best of each brand's performance division into a smaller package. However, the two cars go about this in very different ways. One is a coupe and one is a sedan. One sends its power to the rear wheels and the other to all four corners. Our detailed comparison looks at the design, performance, drivetrain configurations, interior features, and pricing of the latest generation Audi RS3 and BMW M2 vehicles.

M2 Vs. RS3 Design

Design plays a crucial role in the appeal of both BMW and Audi. Each automaker deploys its own very distinct styling to attract different tastes. To no surprise, the latest M2 and RS3 offerings fall right in line and embody the signature design cues. The BMW M2, with its coupe body style, exhibits a traditional sports coupe silhouette. Its aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and muscular stance convey a sense of raw power and agility. The 2024 M2 continues to embrace BMW's design language with its iconic kidney grille shapes, and sleek LED headlights, making it an unmistakable member of the M family.

In contrast, the Audi RS3 presents a more versatile package with its sedan body style. While it maintains a sporty character, the RS3's design leans towards sophistication and understated aggression. The front end features Audi's signature, and trademarked, trapezoidal, Singleframe grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The pronounced fenders, subtle yet aggressive air vents, and rear diffuser enhance its sporty appeal without compromising its practical four-door layout.

In markets outside the U.S., the RS3 is also available as a hatchback, providing even more versatility for buyers. Of course, custom colorways and finishes make each brand even more unequivocal styling that differentiates from the other. Kyalami Green and Python Yellow are very distinct to Audi, whereas BMW sports unique colors like Zandvoort Blue and Toronto Red that are totally exclusive.

M2 Vs. RS3 Performance

Performance is where the M2 and RS3 truly shine, as these cars are designed for true driving enthusiasts, and each vehicle brings a unique set of capabilities to the table. To break down their specifications and see how they stack up against each other, here are the dynamic variations.

M2 Vs. RS3 Engines and Transmissions

The 2024 BMW M2 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, producing 453 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic, allowing drivers to choose their preferred driving experience. The coupe is packed with performance features like the M Differential, Adaptive M Suspension, and M Compound Brakes. The M2's rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration is a nod to BMW's performance heritage, providing a dynamic and engaging driving experience. The availability of a manual gives an edge to the M2, which offers the most involving experience.

On the other hand, the 2024 Audi RS3 features a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, delivering 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The RS3 comes exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic S-Tronic transmission, offering quick and seamless gear changes. It has adaptive RS Sport Suspension, various drive modes, built-in launch control, and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system to ensure excellent traction and stability. This arrangement gives the RS3 a leg up cutting through curvy roads, banking corners on the track, and is also suitable for all seasons and even adverse weather conditions. It doesn't necessarily make the RS3 more fun than the RWD M2, though.

M2 Vs. RS3 0–60 Benchmarks

When it comes to straight-line speed, both cars are extremely quick. The BMW M2 sprints from 0-60 mph in approximately 4.2 seconds with the automatic transmission, while the Audi RS3 achieves the same in around 3.6 seconds. The edge in acceleration goes to the RS3, thanks to its AWD system's superior traction off the line. The 2025 update offers more power for the M2; that makes the BMW M3 vs M2 comparison more interesting, since the 2025 M2's 473-hp output now matches the base M3. The RS3 is also set to get a power boost soon, not that either car needs it.

Both cars have also proven their mettle on the Nürburgring, a benchmark for performance vehicles. In 2023, the BMW M2 set an impressive lap time of 7:38.706, reclaiming the top spot from the RS3’s previous time of 7:40.748. Most recently, a pre-production 2025 RS3 nailed down a blistering lap of 7:33.123.

RWD Vs. AWD

The debate between RWD and AWD is a significant factor in the M2 vs RS3 comparison. BMW's choice to stick with RWD for the M2 aligns with the brand's philosophy of delivering pure driving pleasure. RWD allows for a more engaging driving experience, with the potential for controlled oversteer and a balanced feel through corners. Enthusiasts who prioritize driving dynamics will appreciate the M2's RWD layout. There are rumors that the M2 will have an X-Drive (AWD) variant coming in 2026.

In contrast, Audi's quattro AWD system in the RS3 offers advantages in terms of traction and stability. AWD ensures that power is distributed to all four wheels, providing better grip in various driving conditions, including wet or snowy roads. This makes the RS3 a more practical choice for drivers who need year-round performance without sacrificing speed. However, the trade-off is a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to RWD.

M2 Vs. RS3 Interior

Interior quality and features are crucial in this segment, where buyers expect a blend of luxury and sportiness. The BMW M2 and Audi RS3 cater to these expectations with high-quality materials, advanced technology, and driver-focused designs.

The M2's interior is driver-centric, with a minimalist yet functional layout. It features a three-spoke telescopic, leather-wrapped, multi-function M sport steering wheel with M1/M2 buttons (for quickly accessing preferred driver settings), a digital instrument cluster, and BMW's latest iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. The BMW Curved Display features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch center touchscreen, the biggest display screen yet in an M2.

The materials used are of high quality, including Vernasca leather seats and an anthracite headliner, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. Black high-gloss trim is standard, but a Carbon Fiber package is offered and can be bundled with the M Carbon roof, carbon fiber interior trim, and front M Carbon bucket seats in black Merino leather. Other notable features include a power glass moonroof and four-way power lumbar support for the front seats. The M2's rear seats are relatively cramped, but this is expected in a compact coupe.

The Audi RS3's interior, on the other hand, combines sportiness with practicality. Its cabin is well-appointed, featuring Audi's Virtual Cockpit, a high-resolution digital instrument cluster that can be customized to display various types of information. The RS3 also comes with sport seats and premium materials throughout, and an RS Design Package is available to dress up the interior even more with attractive red trim highlights. The sedan layout provides more rear-seat space and easier access, making it a more practical choice for those who occasionally carry passengers.

M2 Vs. RS3 Pricing And Summary

Pricing is always a crucial consideration, and both the M2 and RS3 are positioned as premium offerings in the compact performance segment. The 2024 BMW M2 starts at $63,200, while the Audi RS3 has a base price of $62,300. That's as close as it gets. Some may feel the more powerful BMW is worth the extra $900, but the Audi has standard AWD, which will be important for people in cold-weather states.

The choice between the BMW M2 and Audi RS3 comes down to, most significantly, brand preference, and personal priorities. The M2 offers a more engaging driving experience with its RWD setup and higher horsepower, making it ideal for those seeking thrills on the track and winding roads. On the other hand, the RS3 provides a balanced blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability, thanks to its AWD system and sedan body style.

Both cars represent the pinnacle of German engineering in the compact performance segment, each with its own set of strengths. Whether you prefer the raw driving dynamics of the BMW M2 or the all-around capability of the Audi RS3, you can't go wrong with either choice.