Aston Martin Vanquish vs BMW M2
What's the difference?

Aston Martin Vanquish

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2026 price

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BMW M2

$95,990 - $118,888

2024 price

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Lamborghini Aventador

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Summary

2026 Aston Martin Vanquish

2024 BMW M2

By Stephen Ottley

By Andrew Chesterton

Safety Rating

Engine Type

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Turbo 6, 3.0L

Fuel Type

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Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

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9.7L/100km (combined)

Seating

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Likes

Imposing presence
Immense power
Plush interior

Potent powertrain
Intoxicating exhaust
Fun, fun, fun

Dislikes

Somewhat thirsty
Too fast for the road
Average warranty coverage

Firm ride in the city
Backseat a challenge
Price is only going up

2026 Aston Martin Vanquish Summary

What makes the Aston Martin Vanquish a luxury car? Everything.

Its over-the-top performance and opulence makes its very existence the definition of a luxury car. Nobody on the planet has any need for this car, you only buy the Vanquish because you want it - and that makes it one of the most luxurious vehicles on sale today.

Its very existence is tied directly to what’s under the bonnet, the last V12 remaining in Aston Martin’s showroom, and the fact that some customers can simply not bring themselves to drive anything without 12 cylinders.

So, what’s it like driving the apex of luxury? Read on to find out…

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2024 BMW M2 Summary

I think auto journalists are supposed to see vehicles a bit like parents see their children. You know, view them all as equals. No favourites. That kind of thing.

But I'm going to let you in on a tiny little secret, just between us. I liked this potent M2 before I even sat in it. And I like it just a little bit more than I love other bite-sized performance cars.

In fact, I like it more than I like bigger, more powerful, and more expensive models in the BMW M family.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Aston Martin Vanquish 2024 BMW M2

Verdict

The definition of luxury is having something you want, rather than something you need. And the Vanquish is definitely something you don’t need, but will desperately want once you’ve experienced it. It’s opulence on wheels, the kind of car you buy mostly because you can. Because owning a V8-powered Aston Martin wouldn’t cut it in your circle of friends. Or because you just want the very best things in life, cost be damned.

Verdict

Proving good things still come in small packages, the pint-sized M2 remains my pick of the BMW M range. It's not the perfect daily drive, but I reckon the fun outweighs the foibles.

Aston Martin Vanquish vs BMW M2 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Aston Martin Vanquish vs BMW M2
What's the difference?