The BMW M2 has finally made its debut and it's unquestionably a seriously badass driving machine. It simply looks the part, and for a supposed US sticker price of $51,000, it may also turn out to be one hell of a bargain. There's 370 hp, rear-wheel-drive, killer looks, and a purist driving soul. Sounds delicious. But what are its rivals? Think about it. The M2 doesn't really fit into any one specific category. One potential rival that immediately comes to mind is the Porsche Cayman GT4 with its 385 hp flat-six, RWD setup, and track-tuned suspension.

Thing is, it costs a hefty $85,595. There's also the Cayman GTS. It runs for $54k and has 340 ponies. So let's say the M2 fits somewhere between those two. The new Audi TTS? Possibly, but it's a different animal due its Quattro AWD setup. Same goes for the – wait for it – Ford Focus RS and Volkswagen Golf R. For real yo. Both may be AWD hot hatches, but they've got serious performance specs. Mercedes CLA45 AMG? Audi RS 3 Sportback? Again, both are AWD with different personalities. The Subaru WRX STI simply has too much of a rally soul, as opposed to a track soul. But say Subaru builds a hardcore BRZ STI with all the right stuff. Could that be the M2's most realistic rival? Too bad Subaru isn't stepping up to the plate.