Forty years ago it was the legendary 2002 Series that brought BMW to the attention of American automotive enthusiasts. The car was small, light, quick and it handled with rifle shot accuracy. BMW is trying to recapture that magic with its new 1 Series.
But rather than go with a retro styled sedan, BMW has come up with a new iteration. First, much like the 3 Series, the 1 Series will have plenty of variants. There will be a three-door and five door hatchback. These models are not destined for American shores.
And then there’s the 1 series coupe and 1 series convertible. There are two versions: the 128i (starting at $29,375) and the 135i (starting at $35,675). That might sound like a lot but the starting price of a 3 Series coupe can range as high as $41,000.
Where BMW really delivers with the 1 series is its engines and transmissions. Rather than develop new power plants for the 1 Series, BMW gave the car the same engines and gearboxes as its 3 series. The core of performance has always been horsepower to weight. And BMW has given the 1 series the same engine family as the 3 series, a car that weighs roughly 300 lbs more.
By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the BMW hopes to reinvent in the 1 Series coupe the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created. We don’t think it will.
Most of the folks who will find the BMW 1 Series attractive are too young to remember the fabled 2002. Still, the car will probably be a hit. After all, it is a baby Beemer for a few dollars less.
Frank S. Washington
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