The BMW 1 Series (E81/E87 and E82/E88 models) is an entry level sports car produced by the German automaker BMW since 2004. The 1 Series is unusual in its class as it features rear-wheel drive, 50:50 balance, a longitudinally-mounted engine and an advanced aluminum multilink suspension. It is currently BMW's second best-selling automobile, accounting for nearly one-fifth of the total sales in 2008.
BMW 1 Series (E81/E87) Facelift Promotional Video
The 1 Series was launched globally in Autumn 2004 and shares many structural, chassis, powertrain, hardware and electronic elements with the larger 3 Series. The model was started to provide a lower point of entry into the BMW range as the 3 Series moved gradually up-market. Initially launched as a 5-door hatchback, a 3-door version was also launched in July 2007. The 1 Series is priced between the MINI and the current E90 3 Series. Because the coupe is the only rear wheel drive vehicle in its class, it is often considered the successor to the BMW 2002.
The 1 Series coupe (E82) and convertible (E88) went on sale in the United States and Canada in model year 2008 (30 June 2007)as the 128i and the 135i. Other countries received the 120i and 125i in both platforms. The convertible, unlike the 3 Series convertible, uses a soft-top instead of a folding hardtop. This is lighter, cheaper to manufacture and preserves more trunk space than the folding hardtop would allow.
The 1 Series was originally sold as a 5-door hatchback, with range of straight 4 and 6 cylinder engines matted with 5 or 6 speed manual or optional 6 speed automatic transmission. It replaced the BMW 3 Series Compact range as the smallest and most affordable vehicle (depending on the engine model) in the BMW range
In 2007 the 1 Series gained a facelift along with the introduction of a 3-door hatchback, coupe and convertible body styles. Engines were upgraded and more fuel efficient, along with new bumpers and other exterior and interior updates.
Luxury Interior BMW 1 Series (E81)