BMW 1-series

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JHZR2

JHZR2

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Seriously considering buying one... likely a 135i convertible.

I love my 91 E30, but rust is starting to get at it under the doors and on the back. Still is a great commuter, but with a vert, Ill get some sunshine and still have a car with roughly the same dimensions.

Since my commute is 9 miles, Im not terribly worried about fuel economy, I have the saab for when I need to conserve fuel. Plus, my commute is mostly 45-50 MPH, and the 135i is rated at EPA 26 (derated). Given that I beat the EPA on each car we own, I anticipate breaking even with my existing car, or doing better...

Anyone have a 1-series? Any comments?
 
The 135i goes completely against your principles-- too much power, huge summer runflat tires, etc.

Aside from that, I think the 335i is a better car than the 135i. It's larger and for me, I'd appreciate any additional room that I can get.
 
Originally Posted By: The Critic
The 135i goes completely against your principles.

No, not really.
 
Trying to think of comparable german convertibles for same money just for fun:

a) just a tad less than a new boxster or the same price as a slightly used boxster s. Suggest test driving one for comparison unless you don't like porsches. There are tons of boxsters out there so prices are good and lots of people buy for toys and don't keep them long or keep getting new ones.

b) 135i squashes vw eos like a bug

c) tt is, well a tt but >06 models are getting lots of acclaim

d) Of course 2005-2007 slk 350s can be had for the same money but beware mercedes electronics! amg 55 would be worth a look if you could find one for same money

e) 04-05 mercedes sl (not really comparable as different kind of car)

f) what does a slightly used s4 convertible cost? I'm guessing more than the 135i conv. More sedate than the 135i I suppose anyway?

a couple reviews:

Top gear doesn't like the convertible:

http://www.topgear.com/uk/bmw/1-series-convertible

Clarkson likes the coupe:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/jeremy_clarkson/article3103294.ece

Out of that list I would choose the boxster no question. One with 2000-7000 miles and lots of bells and whistles maybe. Me like the S
 
Originally Posted By: The Critic
The 135i goes completely against your principles-- too much power, huge summer runflat tires, etc.

Aside from that, I think the 335i is a better car than the 135i. It's larger and for me, I'd appreciate any additional room that I can get.


I remember somebody saying this as well....something about nobody needing more than 150hp.

On the other hand, I totally support the amount of fun you would have with this car. I have never driven one, but my neighbor did. His previous cars included an M Roadster, an e46 M3 and he also currently rides a Honda Super Blackbird. He's a true automotive performance guy, and he said the 135i is the most exciting car he's ever driven.

I wish I was in the market for a great two seater, but with a 2 year old at home, I'm looking at getting rid of the coupe and getting a 4 door. I envy you the chance to get a great car like this. I don't think you would regret it. Maybe in 15 years for me!
 
My dad recently bought a 128i after a string of boring family sedans. It turned him from a cautious, conservative man into a teenager (at least during his commute). If you're looking for a 2-seat-or-4-in-a-pinch car with great dynamics, I'm not aware of anything better for the price.

For mostly short trips, I'd be more inclined toward the 128i with a manual transmission. BMW's turbo I6 is a GREAT engine, but I just don't see the need for it in a car as small as a 1-series. Plus, it's direct injected as well as turbocharged, which might lead to deposits with a lot of short trips unless you change the oil very frequently. The NA engine is plenty quick for the street, especially with a stick. Much cheaper, too.

Definitely test drive both, though. Can't go wrong either way. I say go for it!
 
The 135i is an excellent vehicle. It has the same performance as the E46 M3, is user friendly and very modification friendly.

I'm not too sure about the convertible 1 series as this takes away room from the already small cockpit. If you're comfortable with it, go for it.

Has BMW resolved the over heating issues they were having with these early models at the track?

I'm a big fan of the 135i coupe and would like to own one myself.
 
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Originally Posted By: The Critic
The 135i goes completely against your principles-- too much power, huge summer runflat tires, etc.

Aside from that, I think the 335i is a better car than the 135i. It's larger and for me, I'd appreciate any additional room that I can get.


Absolutely it does. It definitely has way too much power, given that my 138hp E30 BMW gets me around more than fine, with more than enough speed.

If there was a 118i, Id jump on it in an instant... even better, a 118d and I wouldnt think twice. Alas, we can't get good 4-cylinder cars here. I may not buy anything. A bit of rust repair, and Ill be on the road for years to come.

I don't want a big car, and the 335ic or equivalent is $15-20k more expensive. Does not make a compelling argument to its benefit, when I prefer more compact dimensions. I have other cars when more space is necessary...

The tires are huge, but I'd likely stick with the 17" wheels to keep things reasonable. They are less pricey and less problemmatic with respect to fuel economy, Id guess.

I'd also do the re-flash that lets you run with a lean-burn to enhance fuel economy. I'd be using that mode a lot... but would need to see data.

I will say that the 128i felt sluggish in AT form, and the 135i could be driven very gently and easily - allowing you to get better fuel economy if driven right! I have already verified ability to obtain 25+ MPG on my typical commuting type drive (extended test drive).

I still may not buy anything. But it sure is nice to have a convertible (main driver), with a back seat and decent trunk...
 
Originally Posted By: Spartuss
I'm not too sure about the convertible 1 series as this takes away room from the already small cockpit. If you're comfortable with it, go for it.


the vert actually has more headroom than the coupe. The sunroof on the coupe takes up too much space, and Im too tall - so my head hits the roof, like in my existing BMW. In the convertible, I get at least an extra inch!
 
Originally Posted By: Jim 5

I remember somebody saying this as well....something about nobody needing more than 150hp.

On the other hand, I totally support the amount of fun you would have with this car. I have never driven one, but my neighbor did. His previous cars included an M Roadster, an e46 M3 and he also currently rides a Honda Super Blackbird. He's a true automotive performance guy, and he said the 135i is the most exciting car he's ever driven.

I wish I was in the market for a great two seater, but with a 2 year old at home, I'm looking at getting rid of the coupe and getting a 4 door. I envy you the chance to get a great car like this. I don't think you would regret it. Maybe in 15 years for me!


Like I said above, I do not like the fact that there is way too much power... My saab weighs 3100# and is more than fine with a 2.0L engine making 175hp. 150 or less would have been adequate. The 128/135i weighs about 3600#, so 150-175 would be spot on for it, if it was available...

We like the 135i because it is 4 seats in a pinch, and we anticipate that if need be, we could put some "child seats" back there, when the time comes.

I figure if I don't jump on an opportunity for a vehicle like this now, I won't be able to for the next 15-20 years at least... so I'd better bite.
 
Originally Posted By: d00df00d
For mostly short trips, I'd be more inclined toward the 128i with a manual transmission. BMW's turbo I6 is a GREAT engine, but I just don't see the need for it in a car as small as a 1-series. Plus, it's direct injected as well as turbocharged, which might lead to deposits with a lot of short trips unless you change the oil very frequently. The NA engine is plenty quick for the street, especially with a stick. Much cheaper, too.


great insight, thanks! the 135i felt like it was less restrained when driving on test. Unfortunately there were only autos at the dealer - something that Ill rectify soon. The 128 felt like it had a sock in its intake - you couldnt drive with a light foot and get it moving reasonably - my 318i felt faster and more responsive...

The 135 does produce way too much power, but a light foot rewards with a willing engine that makes just enough. The 128 in AT didnt feel that way to me... it felt heavy and sluggish?!?

Interesting points though on deposits, etc. Seeing the RS4 information is scary, and I defintely do not care to get caught up in that stuff. a 9 mile commute is not a long drive, and I'd hate to induce issues...
 
Originally Posted By: moribundman
You've so well rationalized your plan to stimulate the Bavarian economy, I have nothing to add.


Great, thanks! Excellent insight! I would stimulate the domestic economy, but there is nothing similar to offer.

On a real note, have you ever driven an iteration of this car (apparently the hatch is very common over in Europe)?
 
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Nope, I have not driven any 1 series. I'd have to rip the driver's seat out and sit on the rear bench.
 
There is a suprising amount of legroom. With the seat back, I can extend my legs to lock, and still have space (and I'm 6'4-5). The sunroof took away a bit of space in the coupe, but good headroom is available in the convertible. There is more headroom than in my E30!

They arent that small! Just smaller than the current 3er.
 
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Originally Posted By: JHZR2
great insight, thanks! the 135i felt like it was less restrained when driving on test. Unfortunately there were only autos at the dealer - something that Ill rectify soon. The 128 felt like it had a sock in its intake - you couldnt drive with a light foot and get it moving reasonably - my 318i felt faster and more responsive...

Well, your 318i weighs, what, 2,400 lbs? A 128i will be around 1,000 lbs more. Something to consider.
wink.gif


I see what you're saying about getting going with a light foot, though. That is a perk of the 135i for sure. My car needs a fairly heavy foot just because the gas pedal has a strong spring, so I was probably biased the other way in my appraisal of my dad's 128i.

I can assure you though that the actual acceleration of a 128i definitely won't leave you wanting. Also, were you driving factory-fresh cars? The engine will open up as it breaks in, and the electronic throttle will adapt to your style as you drive it. Those will be factors as well.

Either way, definitely try a manual. That should make the biggest difference.
 
Originally Posted By: JHZR2
Originally Posted By: Jim 5

I remember somebody saying this as well....something about nobody needing more than 150hp.

On the other hand, I totally support the amount of fun you would have with this car. I have never driven one, but my neighbor did. His previous cars included an M Roadster, an e46 M3 and he also currently rides a Honda Super Blackbird. He's a true automotive performance guy, and he said the 135i is the most exciting car he's ever driven.

I wish I was in the market for a great two seater, but with a 2 year old at home, I'm looking at getting rid of the coupe and getting a 4 door. I envy you the chance to get a great car like this. I don't think you would regret it. Maybe in 15 years for me!


Like I said above, I do not like the fact that there is way too much power... My saab weighs 3100# and is more than fine with a 2.0L engine making 175hp. 150 or less would have been adequate. The 128/135i weighs about 3600#, so 150-175 would be spot on for it, if it was available...

We like the 135i because it is 4 seats in a pinch, and we anticipate that if need be, we could put some "child seats" back there, when the time comes.

I figure if I don't jump on an opportunity for a vehicle like this now, I won't be able to for the next 15-20 years at least... so I'd better bite.


That's what I thought when I bought my 330ci. Your back will disagree with you after wedging yourself into a rear seat through the front door to put your child in the child seat.

On the other hand, you only go around once. Cross that bridge when you come to it and enjoy life in the mean time!
 
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