TheCarConnection.com's editors read the latest reviews on the new 2008 BMW 1-Series to write this comprehensive review. Experts from TheCarConnection.com also drove the BMW 1-Series in Sweden, Spain, and the United States to offer you a definitive opinion on the Bimmer. Additionally, this review compares the 2008 1-Series with other cars in its class to give you the best advice even when other reviews present conflicting opinions.
Likes:
- Acceleration of twin-turbo engine
- Driver-oriented attitude
- Rear-wheel-drive handling
- Steering feel
- Availability of convertible
Dislikes:
- Styling not as pure as 3-Series
- Sized too close to 3-Series
- Weight too close to 3-Series
- Optional iDrive interface
- Expensive
For BMW, 2008 is the year the company returned to its roots. The 2008 BMW 1-Series hearkens back to BMW's legendary (but back-to-basics) 2002 models from the late 1960s. BMW recognized that the maturation of its traditional models left a gap at the low end of its product line in the United States and has now seen fit to plug it. The cork is the 2008 BMW 1-Series, offered in coupe and convertible forms.
The 2008 1-Series is offered as 128i and 135i models. The main difference is the engine; the 128i uses a non-turbo 230-horsepower version of the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder, while the 135i provides 306 horsepower from its twin-turbo version of the 3.0-liter six (both engines are also found in 3- and 5-Series models). Six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes are available.
While the 1-Series is smaller and less expensive than the popular 3-Series, it could be argued that it's neither small enough nor cheap enough. Regardless, the 2008 BMW 1-Series handles well, steers beautifully, and functions nicely as a 2+2. The compact folding mechanism of the convertible's soft top even ensures that there is usable truck space with the top down.
The Bottom Line:
The 2008 BMW 1-Series makes a true Bimmer available for under $30,000 (but just barely).
Other Choices:
If you're interested in the 2008 BMW 1-Series, also consider:
- Infiniti G37 Coupe
- Mustang GT
- Mazda RX8
- Honda S2000
- BMW 3-Series
Reason why
In a shape that exudes contemporary BMW styling, the 2008 BMW 1-Series offers room for four and a bit of luggage. Compared to the svelte 3-Series, the 1-Series looks a bit stubby, but it gets the job done. Beyond the more expensive 3-Series, there aren't many direct model-per-model competitors to the 1-Series. In terms of body styles (2+2 coupe and convertible), the Ford Mustang GT comes closest, but because of its domestic roots, we doubt there will be much cross-shopping going on between these two. A more realistic competitor is the V-6-powered Infiniti G37 Coupe, although the G37 is not offered as a convertible. The converse is true about the sporty Honda S2000, although it is a strict two-seater powered by a high-revving four-cylinder.
Buying Tip:
TheCarConnection.com recommends you drive both the 128i and 135i before you buy so that you know whether you want to pay for the extra power of the twin-turbo engine. It's easy to option up a 2008 BMW 1-Series to the levels of BMW's larger 3-Series, so sample both before your pen hits the paperwork.
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