LOL!!

Possibly. But remember Theo is coming from an M5...

If I didn't need the space, I'd get the S55 M2, no doubt. I don't see the reason to drive the bigger car unless you need the back seats (and, indeed, the 4 doors; I can't think of a more pointless car than the M4).

We can I ask what the reason for the original post was. Are you thinking of getting an M2?

An E39 M5 is a very interesting car to drive. If the steering feel didn't suck, I'd have one instead of the E90 M3.

(And honestly, I probably should have just done the M5 anyway.)

I've never driven the F80, but everything I hear about the steering in that suggests that the steering is also awful.

The steering is not great. I don't think it's E39 M5 bad, but it's been a long time since I drove one of those. We really need to get together so you can try mine.

It's not clear to me that the steering in the M2 is any better, though--isn't it basically the same parts?

Logically, you'd think so. But most/all reviewers seem to praise the M2's steering (relative to other BMWs). Steering feel is so sensitive to even minor differences that it could be stuff like slightly different bushings, tires, lighter weight, etc. Could also be psychological in that driving a smaller car is inherently more engaging and feels more maneuverable.

My guess is that it is a lot of the latter.

No, not at all. My needs are now for bigger and more practical. Just ran across it while looking for various used BMWs.

The M2 Competition has just become relevant to my interests. What's the difference form the M2?