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BMW 1 SeriesA small car with a big heart.
The BMW 1 Series is by far the smallest car with big ambitions. And with its caricature-type styling, I was initially wondering why in the world BMW would swing for the fences with this miniature dose of Bavarian Motor... But the truth of the matter is, this dose may look miniature but it is anything but.
Let us look at it from the exterior. At first glance, it is a shortened 3 Series with odd proportions. The lights seem large. The wheels seem large, the windows too. But I soon realized these observations were in comparison with the existing 3 Series. Maybe it is simply because we’ve grown accustomed to the 3 Series that the 1 Series seems odd. I begin to think; would I perceive the 3 Series as odd if the 1 Series had been in award-winning production for 30 years and it was the 3 Series that had been newly introduced? Would I then think that the 3 Series as an elongated, thinned-out mutilation of the 1? This was my exercise to adjust my objectivity lens. Clarity then hit me. By all means, this car is pretty. In its best attire, the 135i wears large shoes and sports an aggressive front spoiler which truly spikes its demeanour with a sort of steroid-filled short temper. This car really looks like it is on the edge of striking, ready for takeoff like a pissed-off pit-bull on a leash.
Do not mistake the 1 Series for a revived attempt of the 318 under a new badge. This is nothing of the like. And to make a bold and self-explaining statement; the 1 Series base engine (In North America) is the 328’s famed 6 cylinder which now houses 230 hp. And this little brute packs a 0-60 mph sprint of about 6.5 seconds. I know what you’re thinking at this point, how does the 135i perform? Well, the 135i is the top range (for now) of the 1 Series and employs the 6 Cylinder twin-turbo from the 335 model. Yes, you read that correctly and that translates to 300 ponies to the rear axle on 245/35/18’s. 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, not bad for a tiny car yeah? True to form, the 1 Series is very BMW in the way it drives, handles and performs. With a stiff chassis, sport-tuned suspension and large diameter wheels, the task is achieved with the usual Bavarian refinement and pride. Some may argue that the ride is a tad rough, but the driving characteristics delivered by the 1 are a big reward to small price of comfort. With that said, the BMW 1 Series is very comfortable and its sports seats are well accommodating for driver and passenger.
The cockpit is unmistakably BMW with its usual German simplicity and quality finishing. No rattles, no loose parts and plenty of leather. Although I would have opted for more luxury on the inside considering the price of the 1 Series is not far off that of the 3 Series, but overall this is a great car and provides endless hours of fun.
If you’re looking for a car that takes corners like a go-kart and has endless oomph of torque, this is it. It’s small, practical for city driving and really exciting. On the negative: it’s rather expensive considering a few more quids could get you the 3 Series and its winter capabilities are questionable. You can also opt for the soft-top convertible and soon to come, a diesel model.
Kudos to BMW for creating in-town practicality with big size performance...come to think of it they've done this sort of thing before no? MINI anyone?
Text: Courtesy of Paragon Autos
Photos: BMW
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Tuners for the BMW 3 Series Coupe:
AC Schnitzer
Breyton
Dinan
G Power
Hamann
Hartge
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