BMW M2 Obliterates Nissan Z Nismo in a Drag Race Showdown!
The anticipation was palpable as two of the most eagerly awaited compact performance coupes, the BMW M2 and Nissan Z Nismo, faced off in an unparalleled drag race. These vehicles, both boasting rear-wheel drive, six-cylinder engines, and similar price tags, were about to show that real-world performance can defy on-paper specifications.
The race, orchestrated by Edmunds in their unique U-Drag format, involved a turnaround at the midpoint, adding a twist to the traditional quarter-mile sprint. Despite the seemingly close matchup, the outcome was anything but tight.
Not Just a Numbers Game
On the surface, the BMW M2 (G87) and Nissan Z Nismo appear closely matched. Both feature automatic transmissions, with manual options for purists, and their engines promise exhilarating drives. Yet, the BMW's slight edge in power and torque - an extra 33 hp and 22 lb-ft - revealed only the tip of the performance iceberg.
What truly set the competitors apart was their performance during the race. Despite its heavier build by approximately 190 pounds, the BMW M2 not only took the lead but did so with a significant gap. This demonstration of power and agility underscored that performance isn’t solely a matter of numbers but how effectively they are translated into speed and control.
Crushing the Competition
The results speak for themselves: the BMW M2 clocked a sprint to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, leaving the Z trailing by a full 0.6 seconds. Covering the quarter mile took the M2 only 11.6 seconds, achieving a trap speed of 122 mph. The Nissan Z Nismo, while not sluggish by any standard, lagged with a 12.3-second run and a top speed of 116.1 mph. Completing the unique U-Drag circuit, the M2 finished a staggering 1.7 seconds ahead of the Nissan Z Nismo, marking a clear victory in both duels.
Such a distinct performance gap sparks curiosity about how other models in the lineup, like the BMW M240i, would compete against the Nismo. With BMW's rumored plans to introduce an all-wheel drive version of the M2 by 2026, the realm of performance coupes is set to become even more thrilling.
This face-off not only entertained but also offered valuable insights into the capabilities of these two automotive marvels. As technology advances and manufacturers push the limits of engineering, the BMW M2 and Nissan Z Nismo represent the pinnacle of what’s currently possible in the world of performance cars.
Witness the breathtaking race and judge for yourself the sheer dominance of Bavaria’s compact beast over Japan’s spirited contender. The BMW M2 vs. Nissan Z Nismo drag race is more than just a competition; it's a statement in the automotive world.