Impressions of the 1er from an E60 Driver

Took my E60 (2008 550i) in for it's first annual service, and the loaner car they gave me was a 135i with SP. This was my first chance to ride in or drive a 1er, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I have to admit that I assumed the 1ers were just entry level Bimmers, and my expectations were low. I was eating some crow within minutes!

These things rock! They're like little over-powered go-carts! That "little" 6cyl engine puts out an amazing amount of power, esp for such a relatively small/light car. I found myself gunning that poor thing all day long, and couldn't make myself drive the speed limit anywhere. I pushed the tires to their limit on just about every corner I took, and did it all the while with a cheese-eating grin on my face. Woot! What a fun little car!

By the end of the day I was ready to be done with the little guy and get back into my E60. The ride is a bit harsh for my tastes as a daily driver, and I really enjoy the more refined cabin, better overall ride, and roominess of the 5er. But, for one fun-filled day I had a blast, and now whenver I see a 1er on the road I give the driver a little nod and know that he/she's got a little rocketship that they love to drive.

Just a big and a nod from one 5er pilot to the 1er crowd!

Thanks! Nice way of looking at it and I came from the opposite perspective to the 1 - I got rid of a Miata to move up to the quiter, softer, but FASTER 135i. Thanks again!

I am new to BMWs. The only other one I had driven before I started shopping for a convertible was a Bavarian 20+ year ago. I test drove a 3 because that was all I could find with a manual. I rode in a M3 to get a "hot ride" during my PCD yesterday. I have two days in my 1, a few hundred miles in a very old BMW, and a few miles in 3s. But I have to say I really like my 128i convertible. I drove the 135 couple on the track at the Performance Center and it was a blast. My 128 is not as quick but plenty fast enough for me on the street. I got the sport package so it rides a little firmly sometimes but my other vehicle is a SUV and the 128 rides noticably better than it.

I was not looking for a cushy ride, I was looking for a sporty ride and I got what I wanted (with some luxury too). My back seat is for occasional use. The two front seats are very comfortable. It has the fun of a two seater with a bit more ability to be practical for more than 2 people. The trunk on the Miata is so small, even two people can't go anywere if they need to carry luggage. The 1s are much more practical and just as much fun. For people under 6 feet tall, the back seat could be even more practical. I am 6'2" and I can sit in the back but two back there better be small or friendly (especially on the convertible). But for kids it would be fine.

I am glad a 5 driver found a 135 fun. I would be surprised it they didn't, however. If all you want is isolation from the road, why not drive a Lexus?

Jim

Thank you for the unique perspective!

Very cool read, I have been thinking of getting into one!

Boohahahaha
Now that you're infected it's only a matter of time before you find another reason to go back to the dealer. Maybe you'll just see if you can take a test drive. Just a quick spin, it was only a little fun, wasn't it?
If you head over to 1Addicts we'll help you get your fix. The 2010 models are coming soon.

Glad you enjoyed the ride OP, you've been infected and there is no cure The whole car is kind of ridiculous IMO, it's a goofy looking car with way too much motor (if there is such a thing). My friend's 135 running a couple pounds of overboost is even more preposterous. I've driven a number of faster cars in my day, but none of them puts a grin on my face quite like the 1Ball.

Oh BTW, if you decide you want one they just announced Deep Sea Blue as a color for 2010. It's a sign, you need one!

Nice 550 BTW, I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't love to rock one of those as a DD.

Nice take on your day with the 1.

I was looking at another 3 series last July (mine was totaled) and I liked the looks of the 1er and thought I would give it a spin. Well I just couldn't leave it because I loved it once I drove it (or thrashed it) for a test drive. I still love this car and wont give it up. Plan on keeping this one forever. It's a classic in due time.