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Just purchased a 2011 CPO 128i with 6MT and sport package. I drove a 2008 335i coupe with 6MT also to get a feel for what I'd be missing by not getting the 135i. Yea, the turbo is quicker, but not enough in my mind and for what I want to justify the extra expense and potential maintenance issues (HPFP). The 128's naturally aspirated 6 revs great and is plenty quick. I had a new 95 M3 back in the day - the power and weight specs are very close to the 128.
Also, to get a new one of either model with a manual transmission, I'd have to order one. The CPO 128 was in stock and has about 5 years and 90k miles of warranty, so that helped, too.
The only criticism I have with the stock 128 set up is the lack of initial throttle response, which I'm sure could be remedied with a tune. I notice it most when trying to match revs on a down shift. Just wish BMW had a tune so it wouldn't compromise the warranty.
Another factor influencing my decision to go with a 128 as opposed to the 135 is that I also have a Boss 302, so I can get my power fix there if needed.