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Few M cars strike a balance between raw performance and daily drivability quite like the BMW F87 M2. A modern icon in the making, it channels the spirit of the original E30 M3 with a more aggressive stance, serious handling credentials, and turbocharged muscle. This particular build showcases the M2’s capabilities when enhanced with the right blend of OEM-quality parts and subtle upgrades—each selected for purpose, performance, and reliability.
The S55 engine at the heart of the M2 Competition already delivers serious power, but with proper supporting components, it becomes something truly special. This setup focuses on maintaining factory refinement while unlocking sharper response, stronger reliability, and a foundation for future tuning.
Too often, builds jump straight to aggressive tuning without considering the supporting systems. What we love about this M2 project is its focus on long-term reliability. The owner clearly understands that real performance comes from more than just headline figures—it comes from consistency, serviceability, and trust in the car every time you turn the key.
By starting with high-quality gaskets, oiling upgrades, and hardware built to withstand heat and pressure, this M2 isn’t just prepared for today—it’s prepped for the future. Whether the goal is a full Stage 2+ setup, track duty, or just a more durable and responsive daily driver, this car has a rock-solid foundation.
It’s a great reminder that the best builds start with what’s under the surface—and why investing in proper maintenance parts early on pays off in confidence and capability down the road.
1. Genuine BMW Floating Centre Caps
A subtle yet stylish touch, these floating centre caps stay upright even when the wheels are in motion—maintaining the iconic BMW roundel at all times. It’s a small detail that enhances the overall presentation of the car, offering a premium look without affecting wheel balance or performance.
2. AutoID Black Kidney Grilles
AutoID’s grilles are designed to maintain the factory look but with a stealthy blacked-out finish. Unlike overly glossy or cheap-looking alternatives, these grilles strike a perfect balance between OEM refinement and aftermarket boldness, making them ideal for an OEM+ build.
Crafted from billet 6061-T6 aluminium, the MMR oil filter cap is designed to withstand high-pressure and high-temperature environments, just like those seen in motorsport. It’s a direct OEM replacement, meaning no modifications or special tools are required. Simply swap out your existing cap, torque to spec, and you’re good to go.
4. Forge BMW F80 F82 F87 S55 Chargecooler
Designed as a direct performance upgrade for the factory water-to-air intercooler, the Forge Chargecooler significantly reduces intake temperatures on tuned S55 engines. Featuring a larger core and increased coolant volume, it enhances heat transfer under sustained load—ideal for spirited driving or track use. With CNC-machined end tanks and TIG-welded construction, this unit ensures long-term durability and consistent performance. A must-have for M2 Competition, M3, and M4 owners chasing reliable power under pressure.
The F87 M2 is one of those rare modern cars that feels like an instant classic—tight, responsive, and deeply rewarding to drive. What makes this particular example special is the thoughtful approach behind it: each part is selected not just for performance, but for longevity and synergy. Rather than chasing aggressive horsepower numbers right away, this build starts with solid groundwork—OEM gaskets, improved cooling, smarter oiling, and fastener upgrades that ensure the car’s S55 can handle whatever comes next.
From the billet touches of the MMR hardware to the attention to detail with genuine BMW sealing components, this M2 is being set up the right way. It’s not flashy, but it’s purposeful—and that’s the kind of modding we respect most.
This is the type of project that reminds us why we started the ML Performance Project Cars series. Because with the right parts and a clear goal, you can take an already incredible machine and make it even better, while keeping its essence intact.
Whether you’re fine-tuning the details or building a full-blown street weapon, every enthusiast build has a story—and we want to tell yours. If you've used parts from ML Performance to create something you're proud of, we'd love to feature it in our Project Cars series. Just send us your mod list, photos, and a few words about your journey.
From subtle OEM+ tweaks to full-track transformations, ML Performance is here to support every step of your build. Because when it comes to passion projects like these, it's not just about the parts—it’s about the people who bring them to life.
Let’s make your build the next one worth talking about.
