135i vs. 335i

[e36jakeo]

So I have to say I am surprised the 1 series is priced as high as it is given that you can get a 335i sedan for $38,900.

A quick comparison: To get a 135i with sport package to have the same equipment as a 335i with sport package the pricing is as follows:

135i base 35,600
plus $1000 for sport package
plus $895 for high end stereo
plus $1000 for power seats = $38,495

335i base 38,900
plus $1700 for sport package = $40,600.

At that point the cars would be comparably equipped (same engine, xenons, 18" wheels, sport package.

+1 to the 135i for 6-piston brakes
+1 to the 335i for the duel exhaust.

So again, about even in equipment.

Won't most folks just spring another $2100 for the 335i? OK, it weighs 250 lbs more, but it is big enough to carry 4 people in comfort, it looks as good (I think) and, for 2008, some of the bugs should be out.

I think the 135i only makes sense in its most spartan form the only CRITICAL option being the sport package (for the sake of the oil cooler - it is a MUST!). Otherwise spring for the 3.

[darknightohio]

1st:
135i base with dest: $35,675
335i base with dest: $39,675

2nd:
6-pot Brembo brakes do not equal the cost of the 335i's dual exhaust....

[JO3]

$2100 is nothing. Much too small a difference in price.

I think it's just going to come down to seeing both in the flesh and a couple of back-to-back test drives for me to make the decision.

[aus]

My 335 was $45k with Sport-Premium, heated seats, I-POD. I would have liked to have comfort access too. I'm waiting to see what's in the Premium Pkg for the 135 before deciding.

[LonghornTX]

A more apt comparison would have been with the coupe. Furthermore, I believe that ALL 135is have an oil cooler, as standard, so the sports package is not really necessary on the 135i for an equal comparison. However, I am not 100% on this. Does anyone have anything to prove this either way?

Finally, as the dual exhaust doesn't do anything to further the performance of the 335i over the 135i, while the 6-pot Brembo brakes (a BMW first) substantially improve the braking situation in the favor of the 135i, that becomes kind of a moot point IMO.

[e36jakeo]

Originally Posted by darknightohio

1st:
135i base with dest: $35,675
335i base with dest: $39,675

2nd:
6-pot Brembo brakes do not equal the cost of the 335i's dual exhaust....

I was not sure if the 35,675 included destination. So that means the difference is $2700 with the same equipment. In terms of the brakes, the 335i has SERIOUS binders to begin with 13.6" rotors I believe. They are fine on the street and I am guessing track pads would make them fine on the track. The 335i has smaller rotors but more pistons, but will also require track pads no doubt. The dual exhaust is a nice thing from a look perspective.

But again, is saving $2700 (or probably less, since they will be commanding more $$ when the 1 is brand new) worth it in exchange for the step down. I guess it depends on what you want (sportier vs. roomier).

[LonghornTX]

Originally Posted by e36jakeo

I was not sure if the 35,675 included destination. So that means the difference is $2700 with the same equipment. In terms of the brakes, the 335i has SERIOUS binders to begin with 13.6" rotors I believe. They are fine on the street and I am guessing track pads would make them fine on the track. The 335i has smaller rotors but more pistons, but will also require track pads no doubt. The dual exhaust is a nice thing from a look perspective.

But again, is saving $2700 (or probably less, since they will be commanding more $$ when the 1 is brand new) worth it in exchange for the step down. I guess it depends on what you want (sportier vs. roomier).

The 135i also has brake cooling ducts while the 335i does not. Furthermore, the 135is brakes are fixed caliper brembos, while the 335i has sliding caliper BMW brakes. When it comes time to track these cars, these two differences will become very important.

Furthermore, you are comparing the wrong 335i. The best comparison is with the coupe, not the sedan. At that point, the difference is over 4k.

[potatoe]

335i is available anytime with at least $2100 discount from MSRP, no? And, won't dealers be getting MSRP, at least, for the 1s for a while?

So, how long do you think it will be before dealers have 1s on the lot looking for buyers? October? Until then, it looks like the 135i and 335i sedan are essentially the same price.

[hellrotm]

Originally Posted by e36jakeo

So I have to say I am surprised the 1 series is priced as high as it is given that you can get a 335i sedan for $38,900.

A quick comparison: To get a 135i with sport package to have the same equipment as a 335i with sport package the pricing is as follows:

135i base 35,600
plus $1000 for sport package
plus $895 for high end stereo
plus $1000 for power seats = $38,495

335i base 38,900
plus $1700 for sport package = $40,600.

At that point the cars would be comparably equipped (same engine, xenons, 18" wheels, sport package.

+1 to the 135i for 6-piston brakes
+1 to the 335i for the duel exhaust.

So again, about even in equipment.

Won't most folks just spring another $2100 for the 335i? OK, it weighs 250 lbs more, but it is big enough to carry 4 people in comfort, it looks as good (I think) and, for 2008, some of the bugs should be out.

I think the 135i only makes sense in its most spartan form the only CRITICAL option being the sport package (for the sake of the oil cooler - it is a MUST!). Otherwise spring for the 3.

Aren't you forgetting about the:

M-tech kit
M-sport suspension
18-M wheels

all standard.

Plus most people shopping a 135i coupe, wouldn't really consider a sedan. Is logic 7 that big of deal, I have it in my current car, I'm not a big music person.

[Dunbar]

Originally Posted by LonghornTX

Furthermore, you are comparing the wrong 335i. The best comparison is with the coupe, not the sedan. At that point, the difference is over 4k.

I think the point is though that at current market prices the 335i sedan is about the same as a 135i sticker price when equipped the same. Regardless of whether you actually are considering the sedan many people will question the value of the 135i based on this fact. Even compared to the 335i coupe the difference is $4k when equipped identically. I personally think the 135i will be available for at least $2-3k off sticker once initial demand is satisfied.

Originally Posted by slickone

Aren't you forgetting about the:

M-tech kit - It's a fancy name for slightly different body cladding, the 335i coupe looks better anyways
M-sport suspension - Essentially sport suspension which is standard on the 335i coupe
18-M wheels - 18" wheels and sport seats are part of the $1100 sport pack on the 335i coupe. The 135i sport seats will cost you $1000.

It's not a pure apples to apples comparison but the standard equipment advantage on the 135i amounts to basically 18" wheels vs. 17" wheels on the 335i coupe.

[Propagator]

Wait, the 335i sedan comes with the power seat standard? that's a news to me.

[LonghornTX]

I know that in my market e92s are still selling at or VERY close to MSRP, so that is a moot point to me.

[BMWeber]

one is a sedan one is a coupe apples/oranges

[atr_hugo]

Originally Posted by spinzero

Wait, the 335i sedan comes with the power seat standard? that's a news to me.

It would appear so based on the info on the 'bimmerfest' pricing wiki, found here:
http://www.bimmerfest.com/wiki/index...urrent_Pricing

[jasper]

also, I don't think the upgraded stereo on 1-series is same as Logic7 on 335

[atr_hugo]

^ Absolutely correct. It appears to be a couple of small (8") subs under the front seats and a couple of add-on tweeters to bring the speaker total from 6 to 10.

[AW09M3]

I'm actually struggling with this very dilemma. 335i Coupe or 135i. I optioned/priced both cars the same and the Invoice price of the 335i came out to be ~$1000 cheaper than an MSRP 135i. So realistically speaking, the cars are about the same price depending on how much discount I can get on the already 1 year old 335i Coupe.

135i Pros
-Brembo 6-piston brakes
-M Tuned Suspension
-M Tech Kit
-E-LSD
-200 lbs lighter
-This series has never existed before! If successful 40 years from now this thing may be a classic!
-Navigation doesn't add a huge ugly bump to the dash

335i Pros
-Larger
-Fog lights
-Styling might be better (Have to see)
-Dual Exhaust
-More luxurious look (GT car)
-"Kinks" have been worked out
-This thing lowered with new shoes looks like a BEAST.

I'd say I'm a performance based type of guy, being 22, the 135i seems right up my alley. I really don't need roomier back seats, but it'd be very nice to have I suppose (I'm always the DD...always). However, if I go to the LA autoshow and think the 135i looks too small and/or stubby I think I'll be ordering a 335i instead. Very hard decision, I can't sleep at night!

If theres any other items you can think of to include in the list I'm all ears.

P.S. The understeering characteristics of the 135i are slightly bothering me. IIRC the 335i has superb handling with much more ease to turn sideways. Correct me if I'm wrong, it's been awhile since I've lurked e90post.

[hellrotm]

Originally Posted by Dunbar

It's not a pure apples to apples comparison but the standard equipment advantage on the 135i amounts to basically 18" wheels vs. 17" wheels on the 335i coupe.

Don't forget about the Brembos!

[gimme135]

Originally Posted by Dunbar

I think...

It's not a pure apples to apples comparison but the standard equipment advantage on the 135i amounts to basically 18" wheels vs. 17" wheels on the 335i coupe.

Why is the 18" considered an advantage? Sure it's stiffer for quicker cornering, but isn't it also less forgiving, thereby producing a harsher ride? In that way, the taller sidewalls of the 17" would give it an advantage in ride and comfort!

For maybe 90% + normal urban driving in such a balanced agile chassis as a BMW hard top, wouldn't MOST people -- even hardnosed freeway warriors -- PREFER the 17"? I've heard M3 owners getting tired of it.

[Robert]

Originally Posted by aus

My 335 was $45k with Sport-Premium, heated seats, I-POD. I would have liked to have comfort access too. I'm waiting to see what's in the Premium Pkg for the 135 before deciding.

No need to wait. The official option list is already posted in the forum. Everything is at your finger tips.

4 – ZPP Universal garage door opener, auto-dimming interior rearview mirror w/digital compass, power folding exterior auto-dimming mirrors, ambient lighting, front power seats w/driver memory, lumbar support, BMW Assist (with 4 year subscription), Bluetooth connectivity and Boston leather upholstery.

I fail to see the wow factor for Logic 7 speakers. If am to spend on car audio the front pair alone would cost 1,000 and that doesn't include the amp and the receiver to drive them. I haven't found any QUALITY OEM speakers besides what's the point. When I mash the gas pedal the music will be distorted and drown out anyways. That's the real soundtrack I want to listen to. If you want some good speakers get them aftermarket from dynaudio

[Garrett]

Originally Posted by e36jakeo

So I have to say I am surprised the 1 series is priced as high as it is given that you can get a 335i sedan for $38,900.

A quick comparison: To get a 135i with sport package to have the same equipment as a 335i with sport package the pricing is as follows:

135i base 35,600
plus $1000 for sport package
plus $895 for high end stereo
plus $1000 for power seats = $38,495

335i base 38,900
plus $1700 for sport package = $40,600.

At that point the cars would be comparably equipped (same engine, xenons, 18" wheels, sport package.

+1 to the 135i for 6-piston brakes
+1 to the 335i for the duel exhaust.

So again, about even in equipment.

Won't most folks just spring another $2100 for the 335i? OK, it weighs 250 lbs more, but it is big enough to carry 4 people in comfort, it looks as good (I think) and, for 2008, some of the bugs should be out.

I think the 135i only makes sense in its most spartan form the only CRITICAL option being the sport package (for the sake of the oil cooler - it is a MUST!). Otherwise spring for the 3.

Hunh..?

[Garrett]

Originally Posted by Dunbar

I think the point is though that at current market prices the 335i sedan is about the same as a 135i sticker price when equipped the same. Regardless of whether you actually are considering the sedan many people will question the value of the 135i based on this fact. Even compared to the 335i coupe the difference is $4k when equipped identically. I personally think the 135i will be available for at least $2-3k off sticker once initial demand is satisfied.



M-tech kit - It's a fancy name for slightly different body cladding, the 335i coupe looks better anyways
M-sport suspension - Essentially sport suspension which is standard on the 335i coupe
18-M wheels - 18" wheels and sport seats are part of the $1100 sport pack on the 335i coupe. The 135i sport seats will cost you $1000.

It's not a pure apples to apples comparison but the standard equipment advantage on the 135i amounts to basically 18" wheels vs. 17" wheels on the 335i coupe.