I have been looking at and wanting a PPQ for a while now, from what I gather the only real difference between the two models is the mag release and that the mags themselves are not interchangeable. Does anyone have any other experience between the two to suggest why the classic seems to sell for more and why people seem to prefer it over the M2?

I don't have either (my m2 is pending nics approval). But I did a ton on research, most on the PPQ forum. At the end of the day many if not most preferred the paddle release. No other differances other than what you mentioned. Same great trigger.

I agree about the paddle mag release. I have that on my HK and prefer it to the traditional kind.

I have a classic PPQ 9mm. It is my first hand gun, but I find the paddle release very intuitive, so much so that when it comes time for a sub-compact I'm thinking about a PPS just to maintain that same action with the paddle release. I'm waiting on a 1911, but it actually feels strange to me with the button release.

 

Either way, its the same pistol, just a matter of what you prefer more. Although I will say at this point it seems impossible to find magazines for the classic(I haven't looked for the M2). Its been perfectly reliable, accurate and fun, and best of all its not a Glock:)

Excellent because in that case I'll grab the m2 at the cheaper price because Ive never used the paddle release so I won't miss it lol