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The editors of TheCarConnection.com have driven the BMW 1-Series models and report here on their experience with the coupe and convertible, offering expert advice on high and low points. TheCarConnection.com has looked through some of the best reviews on the Web and selected the most insightful pieces in an adjacent Full Review.
Likes:
- Acceleration (135i)
- Handling and rear-wheel-drive poise
- Excellent steering
- Simple, driver-oriented feel
Dislikes:
- Not very comfortable
- Not as attractive as BMW's other cars
- Almost as big and heavy as a 3-Series
- Optional iDrive interface needs improvement
The 2010 BMW 1-Series in some ways represents BMW at its best: offering simple driving enjoyment in a compact car that looks back to the much-loved BMW 2002 from the 1970s. Over the years, BMW's 3-Series line has evolved and increased in size and weight to the point that BMW filled the gap at the bottom of the range with the 1-Series coupe and convertible.
The 1-Series shares the long hood and short deck of the 3-Series, but it's smaller. Its 104.7-inch wheelbase is 4 inches shorter than the 3-Series Coupe, but its truncated shape is shy of its bigger sibling by half a foot. Overall width is almost 3 inches narrower. The overall effect is that the 1-Series is a bit abbreviated, and some might not think that its proportions are quite as "right" as those of the 3-Series.
Two models are offered for each body style—the 128i and the 135i—and both are available with either a six-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. The main difference between the two models is the engine; the 128i uses a non-turbo 230-horsepower version of the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder, while the 135i provides a more ample 300 hp from its twin-turbo version of the 3.0-liter six. The 2010 BMW 1-Series handles well and steers beautifully, and it feels positively like a sports car.
