BMW M2 vs BMW 1M Coupe | Chris Harris Drives | Top Gear

Is the BMW M2 a bona fide M car? Chris Harris finds out, with the help of its bombastic predecessor, the 1-series M Coupe.
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[@Rielestkid]

For all the new TopGear haters, you can't be mad at Chris Harris if you're a real car guy, this dude grind his way out on the internet doing stuff just like this for practically free.

[@repeatrepeatrepeat]

The thing is, that most of top gear audience is not exactly "car guys"

[@Rielestkid]

true indeed.

[@winzfeld1]

Croo ookie you do realise he used to work for autocar? He's not some nobody that stalked KZbin forever, he's been around donkeys

[@mojondro]

I personally don't hate him is a good and full of knowledge of car's and a real petrol head but you have to admit that top gear have lost his soul without the tree stoodges

[@cgrfc1]

Clarkson is arguably the best motoring journalist because of his personality alone

[@andreas.abrahamsson]

These clips are so much better than that on the actual Top Gear show. This is where Chris shines - outshines everyone else actually. Great job Neil, too! :)

[@matp111-9]

Andreas Abrahamsson makes me wonder if BBC should not just have kept this format for Chris. give him the cars to test and used him as a consultant. The top gear version is less convincing.

[@imranomar1641]

Andreas Abrahamsson agree with you 100%, wish Chris could go back to his KZbin channel, Chrisharrisoncars

[@andreas.abrahamsson]

I suppose the main problem with Top Gear is that it's an entertainment show with occasional facts in it. Chris Harris is a professional driver with genuine technical knowledge and interest in cars, and adding those two together just doesn't work. Don't get me wrong. I loved the old Top Gear, but that was defined by the Three Amigos. They made Top Gear. Not the other way around. They should've ended the show there and then, and tried something new. Chris and Neil's format is very appealing to me. Throwing some money their way is a safe bet for success. It's professional, a great cinematic experience (Top Gear staff could probably lift it to the next level), it's honest, and genuinely exciting to watch. Top Gear isn't anymore.

[@matp111-9]

Suppose it's (TG) a cash cow and the BBC was not ready to let go of the revenue it was generating. They still want to milk it.

[@andreas.abrahamsson]

Of course

[@lockhrt999]

BBC needs to start paying up the money to these guys. Chris harris is wearing the same shirt from last two years.

[@alexoneill6725]

Could be worse... Could be Jay Leno

[@jackbowen8557]

Maybe he really likes that t shirt..

[@Thewinnerscircle_]

lockhrt999 LMAO bruh you have me dying

[@mo-hammadabunaser1367]

He bought a 1M and modded it, he's doing just fine lol

[@S_Kane]

this video could be from 2 years ago. i saw this some time ago on top gear's website.

[@mattlau]

5 years later and the M2 still looks gorgeous.

[@clunt2548]

So true, from the base model all the way up to the cs, its what the modern m3 should be imo. Even the new body style looks good, but not as nice as the original imo.

[@lloyd.8272]

Definitely my favourite modern bmw. Videos and pictures don’t do it justice, really stands out when you see it on the road.

[@mattlau]

@@lloyd.8272 I wrapped my F22 because it’s so good

[@lloyd.8272]

@@mattlau talking about the f87.

[@mattlau]

@@lloyd.8272 yes! I think the f22 and f87 are one of the best designs from BMW in recent time

[@c3vzn]

I forgot how good Chris was. I guess he has to dumb it down for the TV show but I really love the little details he goes into on the web videos.

[@zGJungle]

Yep he gets right into the nerdy details that we love him for when he's not playing some character that's not quite him on TV.

[@MegaMulec]

Chris is a great objective tv presenter but thats not TopGear. He would be nice addition to fifthgear but not tg.

[@alanchoi8864]

These styles of videos are better than the (obviously) scripted ones for Chris. He feels more natural here than the other videos which is a joy rather than seeing the charismatic KZbinr on strings.

[@TheJkghfg]

Neil Carey

[@matp111-9]

Alan Choi miss this version of Harris.

[@ohgodwhy]

I was going to say the same. The scripted Chris Harris is always trying to come up with poorly delivered jokes. Chris Harris isn't about the jokes, he's about the passion for driving and reviewing cars.

[@taxus750]

That's because what you see here is what Harris has always been about: he's been around the motoring journo scene for a while and developed his own format/ style (see CHoC, Chris Harris on /DRIVE) and this vid is essentially his format with a BBC/ TG badge on it.

[@clubracer6]

Perfectly said!

[@adameaby]

Get rid of everyone else and just have Chris Harris and just make it a car review show. Nobody can be Clarkson, Hammond, and May

[@_7.8.6]

I always thought David Coulthard would make a great addition to Top Gear

[@MWPompert]

Indeed, and mixes well with Chris, they had some banter in an old Mercedes saloon car on the Ring together, it's always making me smile watching that :)

[@aabidamn]

Him and Jenson Button will do wonders.

[@Makrel94]

How to be Hammond - Crash every car you drive. How to be Clarkson - Bring a mate to a restaurant and then punch him. How to be May - Well.. We all know how to do that ;)

[@datro864]

It wasn't a mate he punched.. It was an Irish prick who just brought him soup instead of a steak, we'd all do the same..

[@BimoPrabowo15]

So proud that Chris actually owns a 1M!

[@EM_life-gr8sn]

Bimo Prabowo Why?

[@matan2903]

@@EM_life-gr8sn Probably owns one too.

[@jarredmillan3811]

i kinda heard from forza horizon 4. top gear is a story

[@thetumanshow]

He owns a M2 Competition also

[@bentalbottalbot]

Gay

[@paulwright9656]

When the BBC finally realise that Chris Harris and even Matt Le Blanc have their own character and personality instead of trying to make them Clarkson and Co, they'll actually have a really good show. Chris Harris has a great following due to his laid back character, car knowledge and incredible driving ability......... that makes this an excellent video, and a return to form!

[@skateskating]

I'm so glad to see Harris in his true state and not this overexcited personality he has on his Top Gear segments

[@Uber-GT]

I'm so glad they are letting Chris be Chris instead of the dumbed down version that appeared in top gear. He's a superb character

[@cpy]

Never get tired of watching Chris Harris videos, great comparison

[@flangmasterj]

Two of the best looking cars out there in my opinion. The 1M is gorgeous.

[@DjNikGnashers]

I should love the 1M, being a serial BMW owner, but I don't. It's fugly as hell. The M2 is stunning and the M2C is simply perfect.

[@stedy142]

Chris Harris is the best thing to happen to the new top gear. He knows his shit and it's refreshing.

[@mikehawk6175]

Do you still own that WRX? Man that thing looks beautiful😍

[@MartinKohoutekchannel]

This was PROPER! What a well spend 12 minutes of my life :-D Good show!

[@amitavc]

this feels like an old school /Drive segment. Right on.

[@MrGaryGG48]

If Chris gets to just DRIVE and no one tries to script some "cute/funny" crap; I don't care if it's Top Gear, Chris Harris on Cars, Drive or anything else. Just get out of his way and enjoy his skills and personality!! I know he appreciates BMWs; he's owned several. So have I, for more than 50 years. My current favorite is a 2001 330xi with a 5-speed stick and almost 200K on the clock. It's never left me stranded anywhere and is just an excellent, competent, all wheel drive little car. Chris is really good at just "cutting to the chase..." and making us smile at someone having an excellent day on the job! ;^)

[@steerj07]

Can't even enter a Golf R in to the conversation when talking about a 1M. Different planet.

[@Bru7aLis]

A great video from Chris and Neil again. Speaking of your garage, we'd love a video about that too.

[@chadmackie]

I've watched this video 100 times. Art

[@Sohoe1]

Does anybody know a playlist or something where you could listen to the awesome music Neil and Chris are using in their videos? I mean, just imagine a nice night drive with a soundtrack like that.

[@TheAufis]

Chris Pahl I also wish to know

[@jediali221]

His music is mostly by Dan Brown (not the author....). If you look on amazon music and a few other places you can find his stuff.

[@94BrunoO]

Your reviews are splendid and your voice is music to my ears. You actually ease my anxiety, you have no idea how priceless that is

[@adnanahmed6853]

Who else thinks that the M2 in the best looking M car out there on the market?💯

[@54FLEX45]

Yes, I agree with you. It looks most like previous generation M3s. But, no BMW would get my attention now like the 1M, you just never seem anymore either. The Z4 M is a beautiful looking car too IMO.

[@alexamorin5534]

M2.. The only bmw worth these days

[@FastDriver318]

YES! Also, unpopular opinion the normal M2 is better than M2 Comp?

[@madadz69]

I agree but I own one 😂😂

[@adnanahmed6853]

@@madadz69 You lucky bastard.😂✌

[@gregmayled]

Christ the music is so nostalgic and wonderful. So very very fitting

[@mountie789]

Always loved Chris' videos, very informative above all other youtubers 👍🏼

[@NoisyGriff]

Chris back to his best. He strikes just the right balance between exciting and technical. Thank you for not dumbing this down - excellent video.

[@_TrueFaith_]

The 1M has that brattish, lil gangsta look😈😎

[@AnontheGOAT]

It’s like the gopnik of all the M cars.

[@user-dt8jz4hr1n]

I´m so glad Neil is still in the team! These are the videos that I show to non-enthusiasts, so they can get a glimpse what it´s really all about. For me, it is an art form. Car control on a circuit is no different from a soulful bend in the middle of a guitar solo or a perfect brush line on a canvas. Can´t afford the M2, but I´m not far away from owning the m140i with the new b58. And Chris, if you should read this, I´d love to produce some soundtracks to these videos.

[@jasonholtkamp6483]

My favorite auto journalist of all time!! I love that he drove his own car on this shoot as well. Major props for that

[@FelipeGabe]

This is the most beautiful car video I've ever watched. The shots, the music, the scenery... everything is so tender and sublime. And that sequence from 6:11 to 6:32 is absolutely lovely. Great job for Neil and Chris.

[@ProjectLangdon]

Brilliant review, can tell he was a racing driver. He can break a car down to its fundamentals and comment on each individual part, pure excellence!

[@eleycki]

Bloody brilliant. Just put this whole thing on top gear. No silliness, just this. Fabulous!

[@Eganator]

I just got the 2013 diesel 1 series with some M packages installed and I absolutely love it. Only had it 2 weeks yet too! Which I've gone from a 2004 Mazda Mx5!

[@kashv2500]

1M looks way better imo. Also, like the fact Neil is editing/filming with Chris on the Top Gear channel.

[@leekindell9937]

met him today at Litchfield he was in that 1m

[@jimjimaco4217]

the classic comb attached on the differential bottom for protection,beautiful!

[@williamk1800]

Goodness this vid is an instant classic, one of my favourite all-time Chris Harris videos already. As a sidenote, I feel proud every time Chris mentions the Golf R positively, cause I love mine.

[@jo05dk]

I'm off BMWs, and have been for a while. I loved what BMW used to be, the E30s, E39 even the E90, but since then they've switched to very heavy and turbo charged. Not for me. BUT: the 1M got me at first sight, and i still get exited when i see one. The M2 might be a much better car, but nope.. If any of the newer BMWs, it would have to be a 1M. Kudos on what looks like a VERY nice example Chris. Nice choice :)

[@slaWterCH]

I would say it's the most desirable M car in a long time.

[@the0neJames]

I'd love to see Neil directing some of the TG segments - they have some individually stunning shots, but the way this entire video was composed and edited was absolutely stunning.

[@davidhunternyc1]

Those drifting sequences are beautifully filmed. Special indeed. Kudos to the filmmakers.

[@alf279]

The 1M is one of my dream cars. I love the old BMW cars, I now own an E36 (although not an M3, but a beefed up 28i) and feel like the 1M is the last BMW that's close to the character of these old machines. Even though I never drove one. I drove an M2 though, and liked it a lot - it's just a little bit too 'new' for me.

[@unknownip6741]

I am a huge e46 fan and know exactly what you mean. Altho I don't have the money for a 1m, I'm thinking about getting a coupe 1 series.. It captures that BMW coupe feeling I get with the e36 and e46....

[@Schmitzelhaus]

Couldn´t agree more, the M2 CS was the last great car BMW produced, it all went downhill from there...i´ve driven an M4 CS and, while it´s an insane car on the Autobahn, it´s just not what i´m looking for in an M-car. Too heavy, no manuel and 510 hp on only the rear tires, you just can´t chase corners like you can with the old cars. I just love my E36 Coupe on another level! Plus i can do everything on it myself, it´s really great for tinkering around. The Bilstein suspension i put in it really brought the best out of the car and i feel like you just can´t have that same fun with the newer cars anymore.

[@andrewrengel]

Wow. First new era Top Gear video that I've actually enjoyed all the way through. From the comparison of the two cars, to the filming and ultimately to Chris Harris and his narrating, this was smashed out of the park. Chris seems so natural and it has the feel that his older content had. Brilliant job, chaps!

[@penman8985]

Another cracking review from Chris. He knows his stuff and he can drive too! 👍

[@ishankhan7192]

One of the most passionate vids I've seen regarding Bimmers. Well done.

[@druscanam]

This review is nothing like a new top gear review, and that's why it's so good.

[@MrPrincebhatia01]

whats the background song?

[@chrisp.2052]

Awesome Video! Love that 'old' Chris Harris on Cars style. It's where he shines

[@k-ron7403]

Chris Harris back on KZbin getting all nerdy about cars, while sideways and with beautiful cinematography! All is right with the world! These videos, in my opinion remind me of why you're the best car reviewer out there. Top gear Chris is good and I get why it needs to be amped up..... However this is so beautifully natural and balances enthusiasm with skill, knowledge with excitement in perfect measure. Thank you and can't wait for more. Cheers

[@parksed24]

I think these might be 2 of the greatest M cars ever built. That 1 series M is such a special little car.

[@edwardkenway2602]

Thumbs up for cinematography 👍

[@forestchild3261]

Chris is really amazing. What a pleasant car geek show! No BS, really draws you in.

[@Alexandrepenim]

Chris and Neil a perfect team, no matter where (which channel) you still rock!

[@compostboomtron9001]

When they announced the development of the 1M I was excited. And then when people started reviewing it in 2011, it became my favourite car for all of the reasons Chris mentioned, and then some. It hasn't been knocked off the podium since.

[@Naseefaek]

Which is the Background music?

[@Blastboost86]

I’m very lucky to own the OG M2. Such a sense of occasion when I get in it. 6 speed manual. The sound is intoxicating especially with the Eventuri intake. 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@jcooper_]

So glad Harris continues to do his one man show cinematic car reviews on KZbin, it's what he does best.

[@IsaacJDean]

I've watched many videos of Chris' now and I have to say they are just so well crafted, enjoyable to watch and actually convey usable, reliable information that would actually help when making a purchase (even for super cars!). They're lovely to watch and not once do I feel like clicking away. Superb.

[@Retrobeemer]

Good to see you've dropped the TG acting class and gone back to what you're good at Mr Harris. Love the 1M. Always thought of it as the 21st Century E30 M3. Good shout on the remap and that new system is dreamy!

[@TheMikeVldz]

This is a proper Chris Harris´ video, i enjoy this top gear segment!!

[@popsandbangsareoverrated]

This is the first car review, I have ever watched from beginning to end. BBC, you need to keep this guy, wallahi

[@Bblack12321]

Every time I see Chris Harris on this circuit all I can think about is the Ferrari f40 f50 laferrari video.

[@ezassegai4793]

Lets Chris do his thing! look how good this is BBC!

[@Ktmzqw]

Fantastic! Thanks Chris and Neil

[@StickyFingaz50]

Chris still has it. Infectious enthusiasm that is unrivalled anywhere.

[@lukemorey2380]

Does anyone know the background music?

[@abdelhameedbarqawi2907]

Give chris harris and neil any car and they will give you a great video review . What a great presenter chris 👍🏻

[@noid3948]

Great to see Chris and Neil back doing /Drive videos. These are still the best.

[@Z4coupeuk]

Chris’ web videos are just in their own entire league, all by themselves, gleaming down on every other video. Epic talent

[@dylanovertime8471]

I find myself coming back to these gems...the cinematography from Niel, the driving and dialogue of Chris is genuinely art.

[@dasgelbevomei4449]

seems a bit back like the older days.. chris harris on cars hes back.

[@DougisFresh999]

Thank you for this video you have made my day. I own a 135i and i plan on keeping it

[@NathanOakley1980]

Beautiful setting. Lovely videography too.

[@constructivecritique4049]

As far as looks go, the 1M, is by far, and away the better looking car. It just looks so friggin' muscular. And, those factory wheels on the 1M, are the best wheel BMW, has ever made, imo.

[@muzammilhussain9667]

Constructive Critique Those wheels on the 1M are gorgeous. One of the best stock wheels ever...

[@constructivecritique4049]

Agreed. To my eye, they kinda have that old Pontiac Trans Am honeycomb wheel vibe, from back in the late '70's. Weird, I know, since they're on a BMW.

[@Blastboost86]

Constructive Critique I have to disagree. The 1M looks a bit weird given it's a bit shorter. The M2 on the other hand, is perfect in stance, wide body from every angle. The 1M by no means is ugly but, the M2 is just sexier. Especially in the Long Beach Blue.

[@Sirdiggar]

I do love the wheels yes, they are very similar to the E46 CSL wheels which I also love.

[@S147]

Not sure what BMW was thinking when they made their "entry-level" M car not only the most fun and enjoyable to drive, but also the best looking of the current model range.

[@Eatinbritches]

That's due to the laws of physics. The smallest car will be the lightest on its' feet and the most tossable. Since these are the qualities that makes the best BMW's so great, it only stands to reason that the best cars are the smallest. Only noobs and posers think bigger is better with a BMW.

[@Cliffracer46]

@@Eatinbritches bigger is only better for drag race.

[@alarak2159]

@@Eatinbritches I wouldn't attribute it completely to the law of physics - it could of been a steaming pile of shit, but it wasn't not due to physics - but to excellent engineering.

[@ppppw2]

That last shot of him ripping it sideways with the M2 , amazing

[@LeKunibertPC]

Just found this. Usually can't stand the new Top Gear but this is great!

[@goranmusinovic1350]

Chris Harris is awesome and probably the best car reviewer out there at the moment. The music choice for this video was awesome. A nautical theme that almost makes you equate the two M cars to two dolphins swimming around and doing jumps.

[@urebhasan3061]

The music is great. Anyone know what it is?

[@MagicMowhawk]

Can we all just admire the shots of how smoothly Chris slides this car

[@sm51259]

Absolutely love Chris Harris. So happy to see that the transition to a larger broadcaster hasn't interfered with either Neil nor Chris' styles, he has an honest and genuine approach which is so likeable and easy to connect with, certainly hope BBC are treating you Chris, you deserve it!

[@lukemorey2380]

Any idea what song is playing? Cant find it anywhere

[@henrylundt5017]

Any update? Also looking for it

[@ouned]

Anyone know the name of the song?

[@brandonandrew6844]

Nice work, as always Chris. Cheers.

[@TucsonDude]

Great enthusiastic video with some great narrating and drifting shots! Thanks for burning up your tires for our enjoyment! After driving an M2, I decided it was just too harsh for my older butt. Earlier, I looked at the 1M, but they are wildly priced now and could have engine woes...especially now out of warranty. So, I saved a bit of money and bought a CPO M240i. A bit softer, but its B58 engine may prove more reliable with the "closed deck" structure and upgraded direct injection. Plus, I like the multiple suspension settings. Now, I just need to save up for a locking diff upgrade.

[@MIMMassi]

Am not a fan of BMW never was and never will be. But ever since I saw the 1M I fell in love! This car is jst beautiful and the fact that Chris has one himself is a confirmation of how amazing it is. This will be my first bmw car.

[@kimoab-ga7543]

can anyone ID the track at the start of the video?

[@Alone1am]

I leterraly got the idea on how to powerslide watching you doing the review. Man thats so cool you do instructions without saying them

[@robinskeppstam]

I think this might be my all time favourite piece of automotive journalism! Maybe that's because I own a 1 series with a straight six, maybe that's because I lust over the 1M and think of it as a life goal to obtain it. Either way, I share Harris's enthusiasm for the pure driving experience. The cinematography is beautiful, what Harris has to say is insightful able it nothing new, It's nice to hear. The welsh Angelsy track is a personal favourite. I couldn't pick better circum stances if I tried. I'd love to see the 1M round a dry track like snetterton filmed from the cabin. Either way, absolutely smashing!

[@alstar1935]

The greatest video in the whole new Top Gear, like one of the best Clarkson review, please keep going in that direction

[@diogoalmeidavisuals]

Does the M2 have a proper handbrake or is it just a button?

[@sandeepkodeti]

man I hate those buttons

[@WestZ]

Diogo Almeida it has a proper handbrake. :)

[@toblerone0104]

All F20, F21 & F22 1 series and 2 series cars have manual handbrakes! 👍🏼

[@thememers_dude]

I does but u dont need it to drift it lol

[@opmike343]

Chris and Neil TRULY have something special here. These videos are magnificent.

[@framfull]

Chris Harris and Tiff in their own show, yes please. Call it what you want I will watch all of it. Keep up the good work Chris! I had enough of combines turned into snowploughs and disabled peoples vehicle races, and Stig was ok the first 658 episodes.

[@austindiconti4496]

Song name please!

[@ijlal7768]

back ground music pls ?

[@craignovo9964]

This Video is just great...Chris Harris, editing and visuals on top, those M-cars. want more!

[@noushindowlatshahi6221]

Simply amazing! Bravo Chris Harris

[@woodypwx]

I wasn't too excited until I've seen the M2 in person. Looks really wide and angry. Also its sound is surprisingly good. Looking forward to 2018 facelift for a better interior.

[@maxmaxington5873]

God I love the 1M.

[@jermainerobinson7098]

Great video mate keep them coming 👏🏾👊🏽🥂

[@jakubgraus13]

This is one of the most relaxing video ever