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Basic Specs
| Base Price | $31,200 |
| Drivetrain | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3208 |
| City (MPG) | 18 |
| Hwy (MPG) | 28 |
| Horsepower | 230@6500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 200@2750 |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 |
| Length (in.) | 172.2 |
| Width (in.) | 68.8 |
| Height (in.) | 56.0 |
Offering the same rear-wheel-drive power train and competent suspension as the outgoing 3-Series but in a smaller and slightly lighter body, the BMW 1-Series coupe and convertible are intended to evoke the driving satisfaction of the oft-lauded 2002 of the 1960s and '70s. The 1-Series recently received a mild refresh with minor styling updates and BMW's single-turbo inline-six in place of the old twin-turbo unit.
In appearance, the 1-Series offers a pleasing combination of BMW styling cues - same kidney-shaped grille, of course, and the C-pillar kink - with the contemporary "flame styling" that BMW's designers are finally mastering, and a few touches - long hood, short deck, and no apparent B-pillar that typified the 2002, though the chrome-accented beltline of the 2002 is only subtly suggested by a feature line from the front fender back to the deck lid opening.
The 128i recently received a revised lower front fascia with a new foglights and an “air curtain” ducting system that smooths airflow by directing it from the lower intakes to the outside of the front wheels. Both the 128i and the 135i make use of updated head- and tail-lights.
Inside, interior quality is equivalent to the 3-Series, and for the driver and front passenger space is also about the same. However, it is nine inches shorter, space that was cut from the back seat and trunk, which will pretty much limit the car to two-person use.
An improved version of the infamous i-Drive system controls the audio, HVAC, and optional navigation system, and operation is almost intuitive now, though still requiring more clicks, pushes, and twists than a normal control system.
BMW Power
The 1-Series is powered by the same 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engines of previous model 3-Series, with the naturally-aspirated 128i engine producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque and the turbocharged 135i engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Both engines have on-demand engine coolant pumps to improve fuel economy and increase power.
The standard transmission is a six-speed manual transmission, the same satisfying performer as in the 3-Series, but a six-speed automatic is also available. The 135i accelerates to 60 mph in less than 5.3 seconds with top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. Focusing on a younger driver than other BMWs, the car makes a louder noise when producing this performance, a combination of less sound-deadening interior materials and a more audible exhaust.
Performance Chassis
One of the least expensive automobiles on the market with serious track potential, the 1-Series complements its traditional rear-wheel-drive handling with an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and five-link fully independent rear suspension of lightweight steel derived directly from the 3-Series.
The car is equipped with BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Dynamic Traction Control that electronically intervenes to prevent loss of vehicle control. Reflecting the enthusiast uses to which this car is likely to be put, the DTC activates only at a high threshold of performance. BMW's Active Steering variable ratio steering system is available as an option.
The 135i comes equipped with M-inspired aero kit and larger rear spoiler for additional downforce. The optional Sports Suspension includes 18-inch wheels, performance tires, and a high-performance brake system with six-piston fixed calipers at the front.
Key Competitors
For the price of the 1-Series, one could also take coupes as diverse as the Ford Mustang GT, Audi TT and the Infiniti G37. The 'Stang is the accelerative champ of the group, while the G37 and TT offer a similar balance between luxury and handling as the BMW.
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- General
- Body Style: Coupe
- Size: Compact
- Market Segment: Near-Luxury
- Weight: 3208 lbs
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- Exterior
- Length: 172.2 in.
- Width: 68.8 in.
- Height: 56.0 in.
- Wheelbase: 104.7 in.
- Ground Clearance: TBD
- Front Track: 58.3 in.
- Rear Track: 59.6 in.
- Weight Distribution: 50.5/49.5
- Drag Coefficient: 0.31
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- Interior - General
- Seats: 4
- Passenger Volume: 86.0 cu. ft.
- Cargo Volume: 10 cu. ft.
- Cargo Volume (Seats Folded): TBD
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- Interior - Front Row
- Volume: TBD
- Leg Room: 41.5 in.
- Head Room: 37.9 in.
- Shoulder Room: 54.0 in.
- Hip Room: TBD
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- Interior - Second Row
- Volume: TBD
- Leg Room: 32.1 in.
- Head Room: 37.1 in.
- Shoulder Room: 53.4 in.
- Hip Room: TBD
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- Propulsion
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Engine Type: 3.0L I6
- Power: 230 hp @ 6500 rpm
- Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
- Highway Fuel Economy: 28 mpg
- City Fuel Economy: 18 mpg
- Forced Induction: None
- Direct Injection: No
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- Chassis
- Layout: Rear Wheel Drive
- Front Suspension: Strut-Type
- Rear Suspension: Multi-Link
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- Wheels
- Front: 17" Aluminum
- Front Tires: 205/50 R17
- Rear: 17" Aluminum
- Rear Tires: 205/50 R17
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- Trailering & Hauling
- Trailer Weight: TBD
- Payload: N/A
- Tongue Weight: TBD
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