As the 9-year owner of an M235i, I'm very happy with the almost M car. I like the idea that it has upgraded brakes and a little more horsepower. I don't track my car and at its stock level, has more than enough power for street use.
Having said that, I do like the full M-2, but for me it would be bragging rights only. I don't race and I don't track. Just me.