Is the BMW 1 Series the right blend of luxury and performance for you? Cut through the noise with our BMW 1 Series reviews that scrutinize how it drives, endures, and impacts your wallet. Unbiased and clear-cut, we’ll guide you through what sets the 1 Series apart in the compact luxury segment—no frills, just the facts. Gain the insight you need on its capabilities, comfort levels, and cost of ownership.
Key Takeaways
The BMW 1 Series E87 offers a choice of body styles and engines catering to different preferences, and it is noted for its engaging drive and luxury features, including high-quality interiors and advanced infotainment systems.
Common issues with the 1 Series E87 include timing chain failures and high-pressure fuel pump issues, while maintenance costs align with other luxury vehicles in its class but can be slightly higher due to the inclusion in a higher insurance group.
The BMW 1 Series E87 is appreciated for its balance and control in handling, reminiscent of the classic E30 3 Series, and its potential as a future classic, particularly the rarer E82/E88 Coupe/Cabrio models.
BMW 1 Series E87: A Closer Look
As a revered part of the BMW range, the 1 Series E87 boasts a variety of body styles such as the five-door hatchback to cater to a multitude of preferences and requirements. The uniqueness of this model is further accentuated by its slightly longer front doors and a distinctive body style that sets it apart from other cars in its segment. However, the exterior design of this BMW car has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While some appreciate the style, particularly the three-door variant for its additional front legroom, others have criticized the design for appearing more subdued, with some American audiences unfavorably comparing the front styling to brands like Buick.
Body Styles and Exterior Design
The BMW 1 Series E87 offers a variety of body styles, including the E87 5-door hatchback, E81 3-door hatchback, E82 coupe, and E88 convertible, each embodying its own distinct design and features. The E87 5-door hatchback, for example, is characterized by a distinctive double kidney grille with a chrome high-gloss frame and black vertical slats, dynamic contours, body color door handles, high level third brake light, and an automatic dimming rear view mirror, amongst other features.
The E81 3-door hatchback, on the other hand, is known for its sleek exterior featuring a distinctive BMW grille, sharp creases, and a sloping roofline. The BMW E82 coupe sports a chiselled trunklid with an integrated spoiler and a blend of classic BMW design elements that define its appearance. Lastly, the BMW E88 convertible draws inspiration from the iconic BMW 2002, characterized by sculpted sporty lines and dominating panels that enhance its precise handling and ride comfort.
Engine Options and Performance
From the economical four-cylinder turbo-diesel to the powerful six-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, the 1 Series E87 provides an array of engine options to meet different driving preferences. The engine options include:
Four-cylinder turbo-diesels, delivering both efficiency and torque for those inclined towards a more economical drive
Four-cylinder naturally aspirated choices for individuals preferring a conventional petrol powertrain
Potent six-cylinder naturally aspirated engines for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
Complementing its engines, the car also provides an assortment of transmission choices, housed within a transmission tunnel. These include the ZF 6HP automatic transmission for the 135i, the GM 6L50 automatic transmission for the 128i, and the GM 6L45 automatic transmission for the 116i, among others, ensuring an engaging and seamless driving experience.
Interior Features and Comfort
The BMW 1 Series E87 interiors showcase a balance between elegance and functionality. The car is equipped with standard features designed to enhance comfort and practicality, including storage compartments, a cooled armrest hatch, and a glove compartment. A range of optional extras is offered to enhance individuality, style, and functionality, such as Bluetooth connectivity and parking sensors. For long-distance driving, the car is considered comfortable, indicating its practicality for extended journeys.
With high-quality faux leather upholstery as standard, the 1 Series E87 further elevates its luxurious interior ambiance. Moreover, the car provides a generous cargo space of 1150 liters, offering ample room for luggage and cargo, contributing to the comfort of passengers and enhancing practicality for a variety of usage scenarios.
Driving Experience and Handling
Thanks to its rear-wheel drive, hydraulic power steering, and robust engines, the 1 Series E87 offers an engaging drive. It features:
First-class steering precision
A firm ride
Unique suspension system, including a single boomerang-shaped control arm and MacPherson strut in the front, and a uniquely modified rear suspension
These features earn it a place among the favorites of dynamic drive enthusiasts who appreciate powered performance.
When compared to other vehicles in its class, the BMW 1 Series E87 stands out due to its highly entertaining handling, top-tier steering, and a well-deserved reputation for excellent handling dynamics. The precision in the handling of the car can be attributed to its unencumbered steered wheels, which eliminates torque steering issues, and a near-perfect weight distribution with a 51:49 front-to-rear ratio, ensuring balanced driving behavior. The kerb weight of the BMW 1 Series also plays a significant role in its performance.
Common Issues and Reliability
Like all vehicles, the 1 Series E87 has experienced its own set of problems. One of the most common problems reported by owners is timing chain failures, evident by a rattling noise and metallic sounding noise emanating from the rear of the engine.
The car also had issues with the high-pressure fuel pump, which were later addressed through the implementation of higher pressure pumps in fuel injection systems.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
While the maintenance and repair costs for the 1 Series may be slightly above average, they generally align with those of other luxury vehicles in its class. Regular maintenance for the BMW 1 Series E87 entails an oil service every 15,000 miles or 2 years, and a full service every 12,000 miles or 12 months. While the specific cost for a full service is not specified, the average estimate for brake repairs is £149.86. The typical expenses for repairing a BMW 1 Series E87 can vary. According to reports from drivers and data from WhoCanFixMyCar, the average quote for turbo replacement is £972.90, while brake repairs come in at an average of £149.86.
When compared to other luxury vehicles in its class, the maintenance and repair costs of the BMW 1 Series E87 are similar. For example, insurance costs average around £661 for the 1 Series, compared to £562 for the A-Class. However, the 1 Series is usually in a higher insurance group, which can lead to slightly higher overall costs.
Comparing Models within the BMW Range
Compared to other BMW models, the 1 Series is a more compact and cost-effective choice that still delivers the brand’s expected performance and luxury. The BMW 1 Series E87 is priced more competitively due to its lighter body, which utilizes less aluminum in comparison to higher-end BMW models, and the presence of economically priced variants such as the BMW 116i.
The BMW 1 Series E87 is recognized for its:
Robust performance
Adept handling
More powerful performance attributes compared to certain models in the BMW lineup
High level of luxury
Premium amenities like the BMW iDrive infotainment system and the Live Cockpit Professional system.
The BMW 1 Series E87, belonging to the inaugural generation of the 1 Series, exhibits gentler contours and a more subdued visual appeal in contrast to newer BMW models.
BMW 1 Series E87: The True Successor?
Often seen as a true successor to the classic E30 3 Series, the 1 Series E87 offers a similar driving experience and design philosophy. Both models feature hatchback versions, showcasing adaptability and functionality. Furthermore, the 1 Series E87 and the E30 3 Series share comparable proportions and design elements, establishing their recognition as part of the BMW lineage.
The driving experience is enhanced in the BMW 1 Series E87 through the inclusion of features such as:
Automatic climate control
Rain sensor
BMW Radio Professional
iDrive system
Additionally, it delivers exceptional handling with excellent balance and body control. Nevertheless, certain consumers have expressed that the interior trim quality in the 1 Series does not match that of the 3 Series.
Ownership Experience
The driving dynamics and build quality of the 1 Series frequently earn praise from its owners. BMW 1 Series E87 owners typically express contentment with the car’s reliability and view it as a worthwhile purchase even after fifteen years, indicating overall satisfaction with the ownership experience. The vehicle’s durability and quality construction are frequently praised by owners of the BMW 1 Series E87. They often note that the car wears well with proper care and maintenance.
Owners have provided feedback describing the driving dynamics of the BMW 1 Series E87 as exceptional, with a specific emphasis on the car’s:
excellent drive
grip
refinement
strong torque
fuel efficiency
The diesel engine, one of the most popular types of diesel engines in production, is noted for its refinement, strong peak torque, and impressive fuel economy.
Future Classic Potential
Owing to their rarity, distinctive design, and engaging driving experience, the 1 Series E82/E88 Coupe/Cabrio models hold the potential to become future classics. The BMW 1 Series E87, especially the 135i Cabriolet, is deemed to be scarce and has a tendency to maintain its value better in comparison to other BMW cars within the range.
The front-engine, rear-drive layout of the BMW 1 Series E87 contributes to its genuinely engaging dynamics, even in the slower models. This results in a low-slung driving position, accurate steering, and precise gearbox, all of which collectively contribute to a thrilling driving experience.
Summary
The BMW 1 Series E87 is a remarkable blend of performance, luxury, and style. It’s a car that offers a diverse range of body styles, impressive engine performance, and an array of standard and optional features that enhance comfort and practicality. Despite a few common issues and slightly higher maintenance costs, its owners express overall satisfaction with the car’s reliability and consider it a worthwhile purchase.
The 1 Series stands out in the BMW range, offering a compact and affordable option that does not compromise on performance and luxury. It is considered a true successor to the classic E30 3 Series, offering a similar driving experience and design philosophy. With its potential to become a future classic, the BMW 1 Series E87 showcases a blend of performance and comfort that continues to impress car enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BMW Series 1 any good?
Yes, the BMW 1 Series offers a great interior, plenty of tech, and a rewarding driving experience, making it a good choice for those looking for an upmarket hatchback. If you like its new looks and aren’t concerned about its driven wheels, you’ll love it.
Why are BMW 1 Series so cheap?
The BMW 1 Series may be relatively cheap due to oversaturation in the used car market, high maintenance costs, and lower residual value. These factors contribute to its affordability.
Which BMW is E81?
The BMW E81 is part of the first generation of BMW 1 Series, specifically a 3-door hatchback. It was produced from 2004 to 2013 as part of the E8x series.
What are the body styles of the BMW 1 Series E87?
The body styles of the BMW 1 Series E87 include a 5-door hatchback, 3-door hatchback, coupe, and convertible, providing a range of options to choose from.
What are the engine options for the BMW 1 Series E87?
The BMW 1 Series E87 provides a choice of engine options, including a four-cylinder turbo-diesel and a six-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol. Choose according to your preferences and driving needs.