They're not the most direct rivals on paper, but the Ford Focus RS surely has the necessary hardware to compete against BMW’s baby M2 coupe.
These two are between the hottest and most anticipated models of the year and despite their differences, they both promise to cater to the enthusiast.
The latest Focus RS features for the first time a trick AWD system to channel its 345hp more effectively on the tarmac, making it capable of a 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 165mph (266km/h).
BMW’s M2 Coupe on the other hand, remains faithful to the (most) values of the brand, with a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six sending 365hp to the rear axle, in this case through a seven-speed DCT gearbox which allows it to sprint from 0 to 62mph (0-100km/h) in 4.3 seconds.
The Ford Focus RS and the BMW M2 Coupe may have different characters on paper but they share the same spirit, aiming for the maximum driver enjoyment. But it’s the former here that has nothing to lose, especially if you consider the price difference between them, with the M2 Coupe costing £16,000 ($23,000 in current exchange rates) more than the Focus RS in the UK, though, that difference drops to $15,800 in the USA.
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Auto Express_ brought the two in the Landow circuit and pitted them against the clock to find out which one is the fastest.