BMW 135i Reviews & Why We Still Want One

Sections: MINI Competitors Oct 23rd, 2007 71 Comments

One of the most highly anticipated cars of the past few years is almost upon us. The BMW 1 Series Coupe (the supposed successor to the BMW 2002) had its first official press launch last week and first reviews have started to trickle in. While we hope to have our own review next spring, we thought these first thoughts on the car by the automotive press at large were clearly of interest to some MINI owners. So lets take a quick look at the three best out there so far and how they change (or don’t) our perceptions of the car. First up, CarsGuide.com (an Australian publication):

What the 135i brings to BMW’s rich table that’s uniquely its own; is handling that befits a compact performance coupe, a species of which this is the only extant example.

Electric power steering provides feel to complement the trademark combo of rear-wheel drive and almost 50/50 weight distribution.This coupe is decidedly more at home on a winding B-road than the track, where its still-hefty weight and tall gearing can hinder progress.

That said, where the 135i succeeds brilliantly is in its performance and handling capabilities being so readily accessible while its demeanour remains extraordinarily forgiving.

If the dynamic envelope is rigidly defined, there’s acres of room in which to roam before tearing point. Purists may sniff that the 135i isn’t all it could be: not as lithe, nor quite so focused. That misses the point, which is that it’s absolutely what BMW customers want.

[ BMW 135i: a winner on all fronts ] Carsguide.com

One quick look at the 135i specs an you see author’s point. At around 3300lbs, the 135i seems a little… how should we say… flabby around the mid-section. And after passing plenty of 3400lbs M3s at my recent track-day, I can’t help but feel weight is enemy number one when it comes to track-day performance. Actually performance of any kind really.

Has all this dissuaded me from an unnatural desire to own one? That remains to be seen. Let’s take a look at what Car Magazine said about it in their recent preview review.

Out on the road, the combination of that incredibly refined direct-injection powertrain, firm and well damped ride (a bit of a surprise given how stiff and unforgiving the ride is on most M Sport cars), hushed cabin and the 135′s overall air of sophistication makes it feel more like a mini grand tourer than a junior M3.

But then unleash it on a track and it really bares its sharp teeth with brilliant front-end bite, a disciplined tail and a chassis that thrives on fast changes in direction. The surprisingly heavy steering looses its heft, allowing you to scythe the 135i through corners and that mighty engine seems to have an endless supply of neck-straining torque. So almost two cars for the price of one ugly one.

[ BMW 135i Coupe ] Car Magazine

So it would seem Car didn’t care for the looks but found it quite at home on the track. While the looks part is subjective (I actually like the design for what it’s worth), the mention of the track performance is interesting. It would seem Car didn’t seem to notice or care about the extra heft of the 135i. Or perhaps it was the twin-turbo that made them forget it?

Nevertheless let’s take a look at one more review, this time from MSN Cars (UK):

The bite to small steering inputs, and the immediacy, is very impressive. This is particularly apparent on that circuit BMW laid on for us. DSC off, I had the confidence to get the tail dramatically out under power within two laps; it’s a playful but friendly machine, as precise as you wish, feeling every inch the oversteering ’70s saloon car but with all the sophistication you expect 30 extra years to bring. Fear not the ride, either, despite 18-inch runflats. It’s fittingly firm, given the M Sport sill kickplates, but the latest-generation Bridgestone runflats remove the harshness that afflicted past M Sport models. And, if it’s all goes awry, brakes? Specific to 135i, 6-pot anchors (with embossed grey callipers) are sharp but imposing.

We went from being cool on the 1-Series CoupÃƒÂ©, to seeing it transformed before our eyes on the road, to discovering it lives up to this promise from behind the wheel. Below Ã‚Â£30k for the super-fast 135i – and Ã‚Â£21k for the volume 120d (N/A in all markets)? Really, BMW admits it’s without direct rival. Even so, queues have got to be forming…

[ BMW 1-Series CoupÃƒÂ© ] MSN Cars (UK)

It all starts to sound pretty convincing if it wasn’t for two things; it’s at least 500lbs heavier than an MCS and the base price will likely be at least $13k more.

But let’s hear your thoughts since we know the 135i has the interest of quite a few MF readers. Would you sell your MINI to get one? Would you leave MINI products and that famous MINI culture behind for a pair of turbos under a blue and white propeller?

Written By: Gabe

matt

yes. my love for high horsepower & RWD predates my “relationship” with MINI.
Fred

Would you sell your MINI to get one? Would you leave MINI products and that famous MINI culture behind for a pair of turbos under a blue and white propeller?

At $13,000 more, it’s unlikely. My 07 MCS-m does what I like. Prestige and power and extra refinement aren’t worth that much sacrifice, on my teacher pay.
TC

I live in a small town, and people look at BMW as a snobby car (much to my dismay). They don’t look at the MINI the same way. I would love to drive the 135i, but I just can’t see it as a replacement for my car. If I could afford it, having both would be the best of front wheel and rear wheel fun.
Ken

It would be nice to get back into a rear drive small car. I see selling the MINI.
DCMotorer

It depends on exactly where they price the 135, but I would even consider a 128 as my next car. Considering that a well-equipt MCS can easily reach over $30k, the price difference isn’t all that much.
Evan

After driving the R56 several times now, it’s a great car with a superb engine. It’s swift, collected, and quiet. But for all of the above, it’s missing the rawness I enjoy in the R50/R53. Plus, the power is getting to be a bit much in the R56 turbo, tugging at the wheel is never fun.

That said, and recognizing I’ll never sell off my ’04 MC, a new 128i is probably in the cards for me. I’ve been waiting for a small, driver focused BMW since first starting to drive 11 years ago. But it’d replace my wife’s Civic (yes, I know, at least it gets good gas mileage).

Will I ever give up on MINI and MINI culture? NO WAY in hell! I love the MINI for being all that it is. And will certainly consider a new one down the road. I’ve always been a BMW fan, and will always remain one of MINI’s largest.
matt

aside. the 128 makes a compelling argument for itself here as well. the 128, while down on power, is considerably lighter than the 135, and that loss is right in front due to a significantly lighter engine. the car will be more tossable as a result. it won’t be ultimately as fast, or tuneable (chip the turbos for mad torque), but as much fun on the track or in the twisites.
http://www.smartboxusa.com/chicago GSKChicago

This is a great post – I look forward to MF’s own review as well. I’m starting to consider my next car and as much as I love the 335, the one I want is over 50k and living in the city cannot see spending that just now. The 135 seems like a reasonable – more than reasonable – compromise. Still have yet to see any concrete reports on pricing though. Looking forward to being able to “build one” online soon.

Would love to hear comments from anyone who has more knowledge and/or experience with the upcoming 135.
Nathaniel Salzman

Would you leave MINI products and that famous MINI culture behind for a pair of turbos under a blue and white propeller?

Nein!

Although I must admit that if I didn’t already have my R53, the 135i would certainly be on my radar. It’s thoroughly choice. But with my MCS in the garage, there really isn’t any car around at any price that I’d even trade straight up for it, let alone go through the hassle or expense of buying. I’ve never had wheel time in an M3 or a Porsche, but for a car I’d actually drive everyday, I think for me a MINI replacement is an impossibly tall order. And that’s especially true from the BMW camp. Each of the loaners I’ve had and all the BMW test drives I’ve taken always leave me grateful to get back in my MINI. But were I a richer man and a tree had fallen on my MCS, I’d probably wind up with propellers on my car just because the R56, to me, is so much more BMW than my car that I might as well have the real thing.
Victor

I just got my R56, and i can already see me selling it in 3 years for a 135i.
jas cooper

I’ll keep the cachet, efficiency, and fun of the MINI. Besides, I live in the NE, and it snows, so add FWD to my reasons.
MINIme

The 135i looks (side-view) as though someone or something backed into it. I love the idea of 300+ HP with RWD but this car is ugly and, most likely, will be overpriced like the rest of the lineup.
eager2own

As much as I love my MCSc – I’ve said it before and I’ll say it one more time – that 135 cabrio is the one that just might make me switch out.
Andy

Almost bought a 2007 MCS to replace my 02 MCS this past May – but I sat in the car and realized how much Mini destroyed the interior design. Why should I need a manual to figure out the damn radio?!!! This is something BMW would never do with their cars. 135i here I come…
Nozz

Why is it so expensive? It’s nearly the cost of a 3 series. I like it, but doesn’t have the cachet or HP/Wt of my beloved MCS JCW. Of course, if you option out a MINI, like mine thankyouverymuch, it does get expensive. I think it’s a good idea, yet poorly executed, much like the 318ti.
Jon

Not a bad car at all, would look at it if they would lighten it. Not the biggest fan of the design but will taking one for a test drive.
ValparaisoExpress

For me, it all depends on how the vehicle drives. But from the perspective of a MINI, the extra 500 pounds of curb weight and $13K more are hard to justify.

The styling does not tickle my fancy either, but it appears to be a well balanced machine.
http://www.rivercityminis.org Adrian Amos

Andy: cf. iDrive. Yes: they do it to their own products.

I’ve enjoyed being part of the MINI culture since picking mine up in October 2003. It’s been a fun ride, and a fun car. But, as with all cars, it’s beginning to pick up some irritating characteristics, and the MINI I would have purchased next only existed for one year (Space Blue/Silver MCS, swoopy bonnet stripe).

I absolutely cannot stomach the new R56 interior, as much as the exterior has grown on me. As such, I’ve been watching and waiting for more 135i details, and will have to seriously consider one when they finally drop.

Other options for me include a Mazdaspeed 3 and (gasp!) a Nissan Xterra.

Yeah, the MINI culture is cool, but every car has a culture.
ZM

only if it had DSG. and, i’m guessing mpg isn’t so hot w/ all the extra weight.
jas cooper

but I sat in the car and realized how much Mini destroyed the interior design. Why should I need a manual to figure out the damn radio?!!! This is something BMW would never do with their cars.

????? MINI is one of BMW’s cars
ken

If it were’nt for the 500 lbs extra weight, I might consider it. I prefer light & nimble.
http://www.motoringfile.com/ Gabe

but I sat in the car and realized how much Mini destroyed the interior design. Why should I need a manual to figure out the damn radio?!!! This is something BMW would never do with their cars.

I’ve got news for you. The 1 Series and 3 Series both use the same radio interface in non-nav equipped cars. Granted the button layout on the 1er and 3er is a little more straight-forward.

only if it had DSG. Ã‚Â and, i’m guessing mpg isn’t so hot w/ all the extra weight.

The MPG is actually pretty good. Probably as good as the R53 in the real world. DSG is coming. But in the meantime the auto that will be offered is probably one of the best torque converter style autos in the world – leagues better than the MINIs. That said, optioning anything other than the manual will add weight (if you’re concerned).

After driving the R56 several times now, it’s a great car with a superb engine. It’s swift, collected, and quiet. But for all of the above, it’s missing the rawness I enjoy in the R50/R53. Plus, the power is getting to be a bit much in the R56 turbo, tugging at the wheel is never fun.

For what it’s worth the 135i will surely have even less “rawness”.

the 128, while down on power, is considerably lighter than the 135, and that loss is right in front due to a significantly lighter engine.

The 128′s weight difference is less than originally advertised. It also doesn’t have the sports suspension or M aero-kit as standard. Adding either one of those will probably increase the price $2k (for what it’s worth). That said I agree that the 128i will be no slouch properly equipped.
http://mcarlo52.themotorcade.com mike c.

I’ve always liked BMW’s and now that my MINI is sort of a baby-bimmer I tend to pay more attention to them. That being said, my MINI is the most expensive car I’ve bought and that did stretch my budget some. So I have to say that I won’t be giving up the MINI for the 128, 130 or 135. In a perfect world though, I’d still want to keep my MINI and get a 5 series for my wife. :)
MQ

My mcs was 24,600 and it was pretty basic. Bi xenons, rain sensor, no sunroof,multi button on steering wheel, grey/black carbon leatherette. A basic 128i like i would want would cost 3 to 4k more and on top of that the not so good gas mileage as the cooper s… I would still keep the MCS. I think the base price of the 128i will be around 27k or 28….
Ellis

Not me; I ditch my 2003 CVT due to nagging problem and bough the WRX. Though also fun car but I miss the MINI esp. the mileage factor. When I learned about the R56; I test drove it ; ordered and traded my WRX.
matt

the brochure, for what it’s worth, indicates a 480lb differential. what’s vexing though is, going over the options list, the M-sport steering wheel is only available on the 135i. i’m pretty neutral on the body kit, though i prefer the M-sport to stock, but you know how i feel about steering wheels.
Callahan

Well I am sure the 128/135 are going to be a very nice, sporty car. However, when it comes right down to it, it is just “another” BMW. I have not been a fan of the BMW styling cues in the past few years and a MINI still retains its identity. I still love the mid 80′s 635i. Even with its stylistic gaffs, the current MINI is still a more unique vehicle. My MINI is still at least a year away and there are few cars out there that could pull me away from one [the new Camaro, Sky GXP or new Challenger come to mind], the one series just leaves me kind of cold.
Ian F
Trade the R53 for a 1 series? Nope.
1. I think the car is flat-ugly.
2. My memories of BMW electrical gremlins are too fresh.
3. As others have said, the weight is a killer. The car will no doubt be capable, but at that weight simply cannot have the tossable traits of a MINI or another lighter car.
4. How much????
5. Did I mention it’s fugly?
http://www.motoringfile.com/ Gabe

the brochure, for what it’s worth, indicates a 480lb differential. what’s vexing though is, going over the options list, the M-sport steering wheel is only available on the 135i. i’m pretty neutral on the body kit, though i prefer the M-sport to stock, but you know how i feel about steering wheels.

The brochure is incorrect on the 135i weight with the manual.
Radley

I have always been a fan of BMW. That is currently what I drive come next month I am putting my deposit for my 08 MCS. The 135i is one of the cars I considered. But with the culture and connection of the MINI lifestyle I couldn’t resist it. Will I buy from BMW again? Most certainly but once I get my MINI I wouldn’t sell it for a BMW or any other car, I would add one to the garage though.
brad.

perhaps if i could get the 135i in a hatchback for the same (or very close to) price as an R56 MCS JCW, then i’d be tempted. the 135i coupe does nothing for me and we’ll never see the hatch in the US. and at ~750lbs. more than the MCS, i think my next car will be an R56 JCW.

but, for what it’s worth, some of my BMW 2002 buddies are convinced that the 135i will be “the next 2002″…and they’re ready to pre-order. in my mind the MINI is the next 02 in terms of culture, price and fun. i love my 02s more than my MINI, but i doubt the 1-series will take over as BMW’s cult car. a heck of a track car, maybe.
Lee L

I am seriously considering a 135i. If I don’t I will probably go for an R56 with some amount of JCW bits in 2008. As much as I love the current MINI (I have a 2004 I took delivery on in Nov 2003), I just can’t seem to want to drive the same car much more than 4 or 5 years tops.

BTW, it is pretty much universally accepted that the reported 480 pound differnece between the 128 and 135 is a typo. You can look at the UK brochure to sonfirm that.
GregW

I’ve said this before – those headlights scare small children. I guess you are all getting excited because this is the first 1 series in the USA market. What you don’t get is the 116 or 120 4 cylinder versions. There is more room in the back seat of a Mini than in the 4dr hatch version and probably the two door coupe will be even less headroom. BMW is having an identity crisis – they want to be a global volume luxury car maker but retain exclusivity and sporty character. Then there is the “bangle-isation” of traditional design. Head to head the VW Golf is a better all round car. But don’t take my word for it – go see for yourself.
http://vinreddy.blogspot.com vin.

For me, getting my MCS was sort of a first step into BMW ownership. I wanted a 3 series, but couldn’t afford a new one at the time and was not too keen on buying used. When I took my first test drive of the MCS back in 2002, I knew I had to have one. A couple of years of 100 hour work weeks and ramen noodle dinners later, I had my ’04 MCS. I love my car and the MINI community both on the internet and in the two cities I’ve lived in since owning the vehicle.

That said, I am on the waiting list for a 135i at one of the local BMW dealerships here in Columbus. Whether I’ll keep the reservation and order my 135i is still up in the air.

The thing is, fellow MINI owners still wave hello (even 3 years later) and the car still puts a smile on my face every morning. Two very strong reasons to keep my ’04 MCS or get an ’08 MCS JCW.

By the way, as per 1addicts.com, the curb weight for the manual 135i is misstated in the promotional literature.
Evan

My point in the lack of rawness of the R56 is that the MINI is now of the BMW character of competent refinement. The R56 somehow has missed the “gotta have it” I experience with the R50. The 128i seems to have that.

Without the edge, less distinguishes the MINI for me, then factor in the RWD and 6.1 0-60mph for the 128i, plus the fact that more well-equipped MINIs push $30k… the decision for the BMW becomes less and less difficult.
Dylan

I have a R56 MCS on order, but I love the new 135 – the looks, the engine, everything. If I had the money, I’d probably buy one over the MCS, or at least convince my partner to buy one so I could drive it!
Alan Wolfe

At nearly 3300 lbs its not gonna out handle a MINI. Thats nearly 700 lbs heavier than my S with track wheels and tires and half a tank of gas. Bring it on!

Alan
greg

People. Don’t be like I was. Tempted by a fancy name, pretty face, and “high performance”. I sold a ’05 JCW for the Cayman S which will shred the 135i in any measure. Looks, performance, prestige, and all that.

The Porsche is gone and I have had my ’07 JCW for over a week. I could not be happier and I’ll never look back. There is no car at any price that I would rather have. Being one of 50 Minis flying around the hills of Pittsburgh this weekend followed by cold Iron City was more fun in one day than a whole year in the Porsche.

The only place I’ll go from here is stage two JCW. 135? Boring. No thank you very much.
Andrew Z

Having recently totaled my 04 MCS, I am looking for a new car. As a previous owner of a BMW 2002 I have been interested in it’s “successor” since I first heard of it several years ago. Having said that, one major thing has turned me off from this car… It’s Chris Bangle design. I agree with the poster that said that this car looks like someone has backed into the doors. I can’t say that I find anything that I like about the exterior of this car. So it is off to the dealer to spec an 07 MCS.
Revhed

I agree with GregW about the headlights, and the interior is a snore zone. I’d advise people to see these in the flesh before shelling out their hard-earned…

It does sound like a good drive, although so different from the MINI that I suspect many affluent households will end up with both, as each will offer their own rewards and compromises.
http://www.dickdavid.com dickdavid

I want one. I’m not giving up the MINI or the community, but I want one.
nuvolari

Two words: Bloated pig

A very wise man once said, “Simplify and add lightness.” Versus the 2002, the 135i designers appear to have followed a different approach: Over-complicate and add 1000lbs.

Not interested.
Drill

If I can save up the $$$, then I will (based on test drive of course) purchase a 135i. I expect this to be the Autobahn “Yin” to the MCS’s backroad “Yang” :-)
Drill

Sweet LORD that was cheesy, wasn’t it, lol? Where’s the Edit button ;-)
http://vinreddy.blogspot.com vin.

The 1-series argument gets stronger. Check out the tii concept for Tokyo: Here
veggivet

I look forward to meeting this on the track with my 02 MCS and its 220 hp. I will also keep my 02 MC, and I know my girlfriend won’t want to sell the 04 MC I just bought for her. This BMW’s rear end is almost as ugly as the Clubman’s!
http://www.myr53.com SB

Leave my R53 for a 135? No. But I can almost guarantee my wife will be getting a 128. Well, either that or an ’04 325. She’s driven and does not like the current 3 series.
Chris M

The mass of the 135i is disappointing. I was hoping for something closer to the old E30 M3, which tipped the scales at about 2900 lbs.

If I had the stash, I’d add a 135i to the Mini, but I wouldn’t replace the Mini.
Jay9s

I must be on a different wavelength then most everyone else…This is the first BMW I’ve been excited about in years; I prefer its looks to the 3,5,6 & 7. Comparing it to the MINI (for me) is moot…whole ‘nuther ballgame.
DRD

RWD and twin turbos minus all the garish ’07 MINI revisions would most assuredly offer a welcome alternative for many former MINI enthusiasts. The price however could be a prickly issue. The car harkens back to the old 2002tii in subtle design cues which I like.

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