128 or 135i?

shawn13 · 09-02-2009, 12:26 PM

Hey Guys,
New to the forum, recently sold my car, a G35 Coupe 6MT. Now I am looking for a new car to order in the spring. It has to be a daily driver, but I want it to be fun as I loved every second I was driving in the G.

I am thinking of leasing a 1 Series.. test drove it and loved it. It was a 135i with the Msport Package.

My question is about the differences between the 128 and 135i besides the engine. Also, these premium sound and comfort packages, are they really better than stock?

Your thoughts are appreciated.

Ajumepke · 09-02-2009, 12:37 PM

premium package + comfort access = win

Upgraded sound system - not so important for me. My auditory system isn't sharp enough to tell the difference. Beside - I prefer to listen to the engine noise. VROOM VROOM.

Judge · 09-02-2009, 12:41 PM

Have you test driven the 128? That would be the first step to making a comparison. Most of the options are similar though there are some exterior differences such as wheels, instrument gauges and fog lights on the 128.

True audiophiles would probably regret the basic sound system but just as many say the premium isn't worth the cost. I don't have comfort access nor miss it, but do enjoy the comfort of the sports seats that's part of the sports package.

Monterra · 09-02-2009, 12:48 PM

Bigger brakes, wheels and xenons standard, for '10 I think you can add sunroof to that list although I don't know how they package them north of the border.
As a 128 driver I can tell you the car is fun, quick enough (within a few tenths of your G for acceleration) and efficient- >28mpg per tank so far. Its worth trying one out for sure but if power is paramount 135 is your choice.

smpeck · 09-02-2009, 01:37 PM

I've said it before, the sport package is a must... the sport seats are much better than the standard ones.

BlackjackMulligan · 09-02-2009, 02:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ajumepke

premium package + comfort access = win

Upgraded sound system - not so important for me. My auditory system isn't sharp enough to tell the difference. Beside - I prefer to listen to the engine noise. VROOM VROOM.

To be honest, these are two packages I'd skip. I've heard lots of horror stories about CA and it only working sporadically, and the PP is a waste of money IMHO..

Judge · 09-02-2009, 02:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlackjackMulligan

the PP is a waste of money IMHO..

Not so much if you really desire leather seating as it's an expensive standalone option. If you don't care for leather then I agree there's not much value in the performance package.

JimD · 09-02-2009, 04:15 PM

Of the two packages, I would get the Premium. At least in 2009, it included leather seats (more color choices), wood interior trim, ambiance light package, auto dimming rear view mirror, power folding outside rear view mirror, bluetooth, and power seats.

I just got back from a trip where I had an Avalon with their equivalent of Comfort Access. I kind of don't get why that is real desirable.

If you are not too wide for them, the sport seats are really nice. It feels good to move the bolsters in to hold you in place. They electrically adjust even when the other seat adjustments are manual (that's what I have). If your body is too wide, however, the bolsters may not adjust out enough and then the stock seats would be more comfortable.

I got the convertible, a reasonably priced 2+2 kind of converible is how I ended up with a bimmer. I only got the Sport package and wood interior trim. I then added a Garmin GPS in a BMW dash mount to give me the navigation, mp3 playback, and bluetooth phone. I like it very much.

Jim

Vaaaan · 09-02-2009, 05:09 PM

I also came from a G35 6MT coupe, the 135i wins in pretty much every category hands downs. The only things I can think of that I liked better in the G were:

- easier to heel-toe
- gearbox felt more solid (135i gearbox is super smooth though)
- exterior looked better (just barely)
- gauges moved up and down with the steering wheel
- no amber in the headlights
- rear wheel steering option (135i active steering rocks though!)

The 135i has way more torque, more power, way less weight, and with the sport seats and leather it is the most comfortable car I've ever sat in. The amount of interior and trunk space is so close to the G that I couldn't say which one has more room, yet the 135i is much smaller on the outside, which is nice in traffic and tight parking situations.

By the way, I only got test drive a 128i and maybe I tested a bad one (no sports seats, leatherette), but I hated it. It almost turned me off from buying the 135. I would have rather kept the G than buy a 128.

The premium package is very very nice, and you should consider that most of the stuff in it is unreasonably expensive/difficult to add after the fact. The sound system on the other hand can always be upgraded later.

jibaholic101 · 09-02-2009, 06:18 PM

the 128 looks a little different, i would get the 135i, it is going to be an upgrade from your g

Ajumepke · 09-02-2009, 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlackjackMulligan

To be honest, these are two packages I'd skip. I've heard lots of horror stories about CA and it only working sporadically, and the PP is a waste of money IMHO..

I can respect how you feel about these. You follow the KISS rule.

My feeling is that this car is for me. I want the little bells and whistles. I'm the guy that will opt for ATI 4870X2 rather than a regular 4870. It's like picking a 50 megaton nuke instead of a 10 megaton nuke.

I like the concept of not needing to pull out my keys anymore for anything. It's just in my pocket. [call me lazy but I'm very comfortable with this now]

I love premium for the following:
1. I don't have to keep my garage+gate opener in the car
2. I love the lights under the handle.
3. Bluetooth integration - no more silly Bluetooth earpieces and looking like a D-bag while driving.

overkill? definitely - worth it? very much so.

SJ · 09-02-2009, 09:23 PM

I don't own either, but I've spent all summer test driving them both, going back and forth (still haven't made up my mind yet, either.) The essential difference is POWER. The 135 is a rocket with seemingly unlimited power and torq at any speed. It's breath taking. I've been on the freeway doing 60mph, stomp on the accelerator, and it seems within an instant I'm going 90. I have yet to encounter anyone driving anything that I can't leave immediately in the rear-view mirror from a light or stop. It's almost scary. The car is well composed, even though at that point I'm not. I'm panting like a goat in heat. But it really is more power than you can use in most daily drive situations. I'm afraid if I own it I'm headed for a stream of tickets and accidents. I would say you really have to be emotionally mature to use it as your daily driver without succumbing to the lure of unbounded power. Ah .. how sweet it is. Intoxicating.

The 128 is a more normal "sporty sedan." The MT is much quicker and more responsive than the AT (not a difference you see in the 135, b.t.w.). So, if you're into MTs, then you'll like the 128 quite a bit more than if you just try the AT. The 128 is a more mechanically reliable car. There are repeated problems with the HPFP and carbon buildup in the 135 being reported. Rates of eventual failure seem to be as high as 1 in 3. That means by the time you've reached 20k mi. on your 135, there's a good chance you've been on the roadside waiting for the flatbed at least once. Irritating? Highly. Unnerving - can be. The 135 lovers put up with this (for the most part) because the car, when operating properly, truly delivers "the ultimate driving experience" we are lusting after.

The 135 is a lot more money. You'll be running typically at least 6.5 long (and up when you get carried away) from the 128. You need to spend significant amount of time in each to determine which will satisfy your needs. If you're like me, you'll go back and forth and be unable to decide !!

bmwsam · 09-03-2009, 01:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jibaholic101

the 128 looks a little different, i would get the 135i, it is going to be an upgrade from your g

True for a regular 128i but a 128i with the M-Sport package looks very similar to the 135i.

ptack · 09-03-2009, 05:47 AM

If you haven't test driven a 128i, then you better do so. There's a significant difference in how the 2 cars feel. If you don't notice or mind the difference, save yourself several thousand and go for the 128i. Unfortunately, you already drove the 135i so it may be too late for you. You may find the 128i too boring in comparison no matter how much more sense it may make for you.

m_thompson · 09-03-2009, 07:21 AM

I have a tendancy to keep cars for a very long time because I only drive them about 5,000 miles per year. I was concerned about long term maintenance on the 135i engine, so I opted for the 128i. I was also very concerned about self control and the temptation of all that torque and horsepower. The 135i may be quicker, but it is not any faster than my M-Sport 128i.

1lvr · 09-03-2009, 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by m_thompson

I have a tendancy to keep cars for a very long time because I only drive them about 5,000 miles per year. I was concerned about long term maintenance on the 135i engine, so I opted for the 128i. I was also very concerned about self control and the temptation of all that torque and horsepower. The 135i may be quicker, but it is not any faster than my M-Sport 128i.

WOW! that is one fast 128i...

Smokey · 09-03-2009, 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1lvr

WOW! that is one fast 128i...

m_thompson · 09-03-2009, 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1lvr

WOW! that is one fast 128i...

Its true. The M-Sport 128i and the 135i are both limited to 155 MPH.

Tom K. · 09-03-2009, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by m_thompson

Its true. The M-Sport 128i and the 135i are both limited to 155 MPH.

Right!
Fast = Top speed (Same for both with 128i SP)
Quick = Acceleration (135i is about 1.2" seconds quicker to 60 mph)

Lots of confusion with these terms...

Tom

BlackjackMulligan · 09-03-2009, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Judge

Not so much if you really desire leather seating as it's an expensive standalone option. If you don't care for leather then I agree there's not much value in the performance package.

I got the leather (coral) standalone for $1450...the PP is $3400. So for $2K more you get:

Homelink (don't need it, I mounted a mini garage door opener in my ash tray compartment
Compass (got nav)
Power seats (don't need 'em although memory would be nice after the wife drives it)
Auto dimming mirror (uh.....)
BMW Assist/BT (this is the one thing I'd want, bluetooth, but not for $2K)
Lumbar support (don't need it)

I took that $2K and put it toward the updated iDrive, no regrets! But to each their own

SVT2BMW · 09-03-2009, 12:37 PM

135 all the way. I have the PP with CA and NAV which I didnt orgianlly want but then had to have it once I saw it. I did not get the sport and the seats do kind of suck but I am going to take them out and put some lightwieght ones in with the nice side and hip support. I didnt even consider the 128 as an option. you would get it then in a month or so regret not spending the extra for the 135 and all it can give you over the 128. If cost is an issue then eat out less and get a cheaper cell phone plan.lol Maybe able to offset 30-50 bucks a month doing those things and bring it into the more affordable range. When I bought my 135 I was trying to justify the extra cash per month and I did so by saying I will bring my lunch to work everyday instead of eating out. I just did some number crunching and by doing so it will save me about 120 a month which makes up the difference.

devestator · 04-08-2013, 01:21 AM

Its true. The M-Sport 128i and the 135i are both limited to 155 MPH.

not true order your car
I ordered my 2012 128i M sport coupe package automatic with paddle shift and i requested the limiter to be taken off and BMW built my car without one and i have had it to 160 (max on the spedo) at 6000 rpm and it was still going faster i have done this 3 times so far

09-02-2009, 12:26 PM	#1
shawn13 Enlisted Member 9 Rep 33 Posts Drives: G35 Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Toronto, Canada iTrader: (0)	128 or 135i? Hey Guys, New to the forum, recently sold my car, a G35 Coupe 6MT. Now I am looking for a new car to order in the spring. It has to be a daily driver, but I want it to be fun as I loved every second I was driving in the G. I am thinking of leasing a 1 Series.. test drove it and loved it. It was a 135i with the Msport Package. My question is about the differences between the 128 and 135i besides the engine. Also, these premium sound and comfort packages, are they really better than stock? Your thoughts are appreciated.
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09-02-2009, 12:37 PM	#2
Ajumepke First Lieutenant 46 Rep 332 Posts Drives: None Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (0)	premium package + comfort access = win Upgraded sound system - not so important for me. My auditory system isn't sharp enough to tell the difference. Beside - I prefer to listen to the engine noise. VROOM VROOM.
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09-02-2009, 12:41 PM	#3
Judge First Lieutenant 38 Rep 395 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: FL iTrader: (0)	Have you test driven the 128? That would be the first step to making a comparison. Most of the options are similar though there are some exterior differences such as wheels, instrument gauges and fog lights on the 128. True audiophiles would probably regret the basic sound system but just as many say the premium isn't worth the cost. I don't have comfort access nor miss it, but do enjoy the comfort of the sports seats that's part of the sports package.
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09-02-2009, 12:48 PM	#4
Monterra Captain 17 Rep 619 Posts Drives: 15 X1 msport sdrive28 Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: HVNY iTrader: (0)	Bigger brakes, wheels and xenons standard, for '10 I think you can add sunroof to that list although I don't know how they package them north of the border. As a 128 driver I can tell you the car is fun, quick enough (within a few tenths of your G for acceleration) and efficient- >28mpg per tank so far. Its worth trying one out for sure but if power is paramount 135 is your choice.
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09-02-2009, 01:37 PM	#5
smpeck Private First Class 14 Rep 160 Posts Drives: 2012 328i Coupe (E92) Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: FL iTrader: (0)	I've said it before, the sport package is a must... the sport seats are much better than the standard ones.
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09-02-2009, 04:15 PM	#8
JimD Brigadier General 368 Rep 3,547 Posts Drives: 128i convertible Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Lexington, SC iTrader: (0)	Of the two packages, I would get the Premium. At least in 2009, it included leather seats (more color choices), wood interior trim, ambiance light package, auto dimming rear view mirror, power folding outside rear view mirror, bluetooth, and power seats. I just got back from a trip where I had an Avalon with their equivalent of Comfort Access. I kind of don't get why that is real desirable. If you are not too wide for them, the sport seats are really nice. It feels good to move the bolsters in to hold you in place. They electrically adjust even when the other seat adjustments are manual (that's what I have). If your body is too wide, however, the bolsters may not adjust out enough and then the stock seats would be more comfortable. I got the convertible, a reasonably priced 2+2 kind of converible is how I ended up with a bimmer. I only got the Sport package and wood interior trim. I then added a Garmin GPS in a BMW dash mount to give me the navigation, mp3 playback, and bluetooth phone. I like it very much. Jim __________________ 128i Convertible, MT, Alpine White, Black Top, Taupe Leatherette, Walnut, Sport Ordered 5/22/09, Completed 6/4/09, At Port 6/9/09, On the Georgia Highway 6/13/09, Ship Arrived Charleston 6/24/09 at 10pm, PCD 7/21/09
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09-02-2009, 05:09 PM	#9
Vaaaan Private 6 Rep 95 Posts Drives: 2009 Jet Black 135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Wisconsin iTrader: (0)	I also came from a G35 6MT coupe, the 135i wins in pretty much every category hands downs. The only things I can think of that I liked better in the G were: - easier to heel-toe - gearbox felt more solid (135i gearbox is super smooth though) - exterior looked better (just barely) - gauges moved up and down with the steering wheel - no amber in the headlights - rear wheel steering option (135i active steering rocks though!) The 135i has way more torque, more power, way less weight, and with the sport seats and leather it is the most comfortable car I've ever sat in. The amount of interior and trunk space is so close to the G that I couldn't say which one has more room, yet the 135i is much smaller on the outside, which is nice in traffic and tight parking situations. By the way, I only got test drive a 128i and maybe I tested a bad one (no sports seats, leatherette), but I hated it. It almost turned me off from buying the 135. I would have rather kept the G than buy a 128. The premium package is very very nice, and you should consider that most of the stuff in it is unreasonably expensive/difficult to add after the fact. The sound system on the other hand can always be upgraded later. __________________ 2009 135i 6MT /// Jet Black \\\ Savanna Beige /// Premium \\\ M-Sport /// Active Steering \\\ Heated Seats /// Premium Hi-Fi \\\ iPod/USB adapter
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09-02-2009, 06:18 PM	#10
jibaholic101 Brigadier General 159 Rep 3,496 Posts Drives: women wild Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Charleston, SC iTrader: (0)	the 128 looks a little different, i would get the 135i, it is going to be an upgrade from your g __________________ some italian, german, and japanese ones; and on order more of the same
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09-02-2009, 09:23 PM	#12
SJ Private 20 Rep 83 Posts Drives: none yet Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: NC iTrader: (0)	I don't own either, but I've spent all summer test driving them both, going back and forth (still haven't made up my mind yet, either.) The essential difference is POWER. The 135 is a rocket with seemingly unlimited power and torq at any speed. It's breath taking. I've been on the freeway doing 60mph, stomp on the accelerator, and it seems within an instant I'm going 90. I have yet to encounter anyone driving anything that I can't leave immediately in the rear-view mirror from a light or stop. It's almost scary. The car is well composed, even though at that point I'm not. I'm panting like a goat in heat. But it really is more power than you can use in most daily drive situations. I'm afraid if I own it I'm headed for a stream of tickets and accidents. I would say you really have to be emotionally mature to use it as your daily driver without succumbing to the lure of unbounded power. Ah .. how sweet it is. Intoxicating. The 128 is a more normal "sporty sedan." The MT is much quicker and more responsive than the AT (not a difference you see in the 135, b.t.w.). So, if you're into MTs, then you'll like the 128 quite a bit more than if you just try the AT. The 128 is a more mechanically reliable car. There are repeated problems with the HPFP and carbon buildup in the 135 being reported. Rates of eventual failure seem to be as high as 1 in 3. That means by the time you've reached 20k mi. on your 135, there's a good chance you've been on the roadside waiting for the flatbed at least once. Irritating? Highly. Unnerving - can be. The 135 lovers put up with this (for the most part) because the car, when operating properly, truly delivers "the ultimate driving experience" we are lusting after. The 135 is a lot more money. You'll be running typically at least 6.5 long (and up when you get carried away) from the 128. You need to spend significant amount of time in each to determine which will satisfy your needs. If you're like me, you'll go back and forth and be unable to decide !!
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09-03-2009, 05:47 AM	#14
ptack Brigadier General 269 Rep 4,470 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	If you haven't test driven a 128i, then you better do so. There's a significant difference in how the 2 cars feel. If you don't notice or mind the difference, save yourself several thousand and go for the 128i. Unfortunately, you already drove the 135i so it may be too late for you. You may find the 128i too boring in comparison no matter how much more sense it may make for you. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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09-03-2009, 07:21 AM	#15
m_thompson Major 133 Rep 1,416 Posts Drives: M-Sport 128i, 328xi, 3.0CS Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: New England, USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 128i [0.00] 1972 3.0CS [10.00]	I have a tendancy to keep cars for a very long time because I only drive them about 5,000 miles per year. I was concerned about long term maintenance on the 135i engine, so I opted for the 128i. I was also very concerned about self control and the temptation of all that torque and horsepower. The 135i may be quicker, but it is not any faster than my M-Sport 128i. __________________ '09 128i - Black Sapphire Metallic\Coral Red\Glacier Silver\N51 DISA\6MT\Navigation\Premium\M-Sport\Heated seats\Xenon\Headlights\iPod\Smartphone\Euro Delivery
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09-03-2009, 12:37 PM	#21
SVT2BMW Private 2 Rep 53 Posts Drives: 2009 Black 135i Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Socal iTrader: (0)	135 all the way. I have the PP with CA and NAV which I didnt orgianlly want but then had to have it once I saw it. I did not get the sport and the seats do kind of suck but I am going to take them out and put some lightwieght ones in with the nice side and hip support. I didnt even consider the 128 as an option. you would get it then in a month or so regret not spending the extra for the 135 and all it can give you over the 128. If cost is an issue then eat out less and get a cheaper cell phone plan.lol Maybe able to offset 30-50 bucks a month doing those things and bring it into the more affordable range. When I bought my 135 I was trying to justify the extra cash per month and I did so by saying I will bring my lunch to work everyday instead of eating out. I just did some number crunching and by doing so it will save me about 120 a month which makes up the difference.
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04-08-2013, 01:21 AM	#22
devestator New Member 1 Rep 8 Posts Drives: 128i sports pack Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: ny iTrader: (0)	Its true. The M-Sport 128i and the 135i are both limited to 155 MPH. not true order your car I ordered my 2012 128i M sport coupe package automatic with paddle shift and i requested the limiter to be taken off and BMW built my car without one and i have had it to 160 (max on the spedo) at 6000 rpm and it was still going faster i have done this 3 times so far
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