[DivergedM2]

Hey Bimmerpost Family,

Been waiting to create this post for a while! My name is Chris but you may have seen my car on instagram @DivergedM2. I've been on this build journey for a year and 2 months and want to share with the true enthusiast forum! I've dubbed my build a DINAN M2 gts because I think it fits the mold...but I will hold off badging it as such until my performance numbers can back up the name. Per tradition, here's the "final" result before jumping into the details!

My BMW history started in 2018 via LeaseHackr. I went from a 2016 m235, to a 2018 i3 REX and ended with a 2020 m340i. They were short 1 year lease swaps. As my professional life was progressing, I wanted to own something and always felt close to the "M" brand. As a consultant, I was traveling Mon-Thurs and never saw the need. However once covid hit, I started my search to purchase a sports car. I looked at caymans, m3s, and stumbled across m2s. I actually followed Ghost_M2 for the longest time but because of how awesome his build is, I thought they were unattainable. Even further, my late uncle always talked about "If you own an M, you a big dog." All of these influenced my decision and timing felt right.

First "M" Purchase
In June 2020 I stumbled upon a 2018 M2 Black Sapphire Metallic 6SPD with 23k miles. After talking to the guy, there were mods like a custom fabbed exhaust, no brand tune and a few lower-quality bolt ons. In hindsight, I should have PPI'd for such a large purchase but I offered and to my surprise, he accepted. I did not know how to drive manual so I had it dropped off at my house after we completed the transaction. Trial, error, and a lot of youtube later...I was able to drive it 2 hours away to our condo and began the build. It all started with an excel sheet and a good friend Ben, who owns Race Precision Inc. in West Chester, PA. Updates in threads below!

Build Breakdown:
Cosmetic

• IND - M2C Retrofit Bumper
• IND - Red Start/Stop
• Fallline Motorsports - Tow Strap
• M Performance - Diffuser
• M Performance - Tech Wheel
• M Performance - Shifter
• P3 - Vent Gauge
• AK Motion - Data Display
• AutoID - Carbon Markers
• Burger Tuning - 12/10 Spacers
• RW Carbon - GTS Wing
• Race Precision Inc. - GTS Lip
• Sparco - QRT-R
• Sparco - Seat Base
• Sparco - Slider
• Sparco - Frame
• Planted Technology - Seat Base
• Studio RSR - Roll Cage
• Scroth - Harness
• Suvneer - GTS Hood
• AutoTeknic - Carbon Mirror Caps
• DINAN - Pedals
• Apex - EC7
• Michelin - Sport Cup2 265/295

Performance

• DINAN Intercooler
• DINAN Intake
• DINAN Exhaust
• DINAN Res Delete
• VRSF Charge Pipes
• VRSF Catless DP
• BM3 - S2 93 Oct
• KW - V3 Suspension
• GroundControl - Camber Plates

[AdamM///]

Great build, I really like those red seats but I can't see them being very comfortable lol. Seen your car at Mpact very impressive.

[k3nny]

Car looks amazing and awesome job with getting your life on track.

[DrKevM5]

Fantastic build!

[maddoc]

Originally Posted by DivergedM2

Build Breakdown:
Cosmetic

• Suvneer - GTS Hood
• Apex - EC7
• Michelin - Sport Cup2 265/295

Build is fantastic! I have 2 questions:
1. How does the hood fit? I've heard mixed reviews
2. What are the specs of the EC7 (offset, wheel width, etc) to fit the 265/295?

[DivergedM2]

Well I haven't kept up with this build log and the car has been replaced...but using some of this space to document my first real large build / project. Thanks for tagging along

[ShortSides]

How is this a 2018 M2 when the front end looks like a M2C?

[carchrism5]

Originally Posted by ShortSides

How is this a 2018 M2 when the front end looks like a M2C?

Originally Posted by DivergedM2

Build Breakdown:
Cosmetic
[*]IND - M2C Retrofit Bumper

First item in cosmetic, one of the few I've seen done.

[ShortSides]

Originally Posted by carchrism5

First item in cosmetic, one of the few I've seen done.

Good catch. There can't be too many of those around.