2008 BMW 1 Series
Available in two versions, the 1 Series uses the capable powerplants from its big brother, the 3 Series. The entry-level 128i is powered by the 3.0-liter, 230-bhp inline-6 from the 328i while the 135i features the 335i's 3.0-liter 300-bhp twin-turbocharged inline-6, this latter unit taking the rakish 2-door from 0–60 mph in a little more than 5 seconds. And while this born-again BMW 2002 may be easier on the checkbook, it won't skimp on features from its pricier relatives. Available amenities include a navigation system with iDrive interface, adaptive xenon headlights (standard on the 135i), Boston leather, HD and Sirius radio, active steering and six airbags (standard on both editions).
With essentially the same drivetrains as those found in the 3 Series shoehorned into a smaller, lighter, less expensive package, will the hard-core enthusiast think, in this instance, that 1 > 3?
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