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      03-17-2018, 11:39 AM   #1
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Talking This car is something special... and I almost sold it (pic heavy)

Wanted to share this and get some opinions. If anyone caught my garage sale thread they may have noticed I had "decided" to sell the 1er. I've always wanted a Corvette and noticed the price of C6's had plummeted. I planned to get a cheaper C6 and another cheap car as a DD. After getting some news that we may be moving (short-term) I did some serious thinking, more research, and went back on my decision.

I've never done that before. I've had 13 vehicles in 10 years, not because they broke or crashed, but because I hadn't found anything that made me want to keep it more than a couple of years. I tried all kinds of platforms and finally landed on my first 135i a few years ago. A friend and I drove from MD to North Carolina and back in a day to buy it. Loved it from the start but it died a watery death in a flood and I wasn't sure I'd find another with all the features I wanted. I got super lucky and picked up the current One, once more down in NC, driving 14hrs solo in a day.

After almost selling this car I had the realization that I'm not sure there's another car out there that can do what the 1er offers. I'm curious to see if anyone else has had a similar train of thought.

I also realized that not needing a separate DD, and being able to do everything with the One is what makes it special.

My wife and I have packed it FULL, with a massive "first-time" Costco run moving into a new apartment, and it took it like a champ. (First One here, the observant reader will notice the SG paint)
20150926_152912_zpslfudxusr by Matt Steele, on Flickr

I've loaded the trunk with camping gear, thrown bikes on the roof, dog in the back, wife in the passenger seat and hit the road for hours on end. Dirt roads included, and it's never missed a beat.

20170609_141702 by Matt Steele, on Flickr
20170609_142611 by Matt Steele, on Flickr
20170609_203351 by Matt Steele, on Flickr
20170611_151736 by Matt Steele, on Flickr

We've thrown ski/snowboard gear on the roof, packed the trunk, a friend in the back seat with us up front and driven 5hrs up to the Catskills through snow, mud, and slush.

Capture by Matt Steele, on Flickr
20180104_090332 by Matt Steele, on Flickr
2018-01-22_03-37-43 by Matt Steele, on Flickr


This car has done, and can do so much. All while remaining comfortable, adaptable, (somewhat) reliable, sipping gas, and making me and the other passengers smile. I haven't even gotten into the driving characteristics of the car, which is what separates it from the rest of the pack, especially most that can be used as a DD. The fact that it drives like it does and can still do all of the above is what makes it special. And I'm glad that I didn't give in to the opportunity and impulse to let it go.
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      03-17-2018, 11:56 AM   #2
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So I guess this means no deal on trading suspensions

Good move. I honestly can't think of anything that I'd replace my 1er with. Like 911's but couldn't really go on any sort of long trip with it.
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      03-17-2018, 12:27 PM   #3
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So I guess this means no deal on trading suspensions

Good move. I honestly can't think of anything that I'd replace my 1er with. Like 911's but couldn't really go on any sort of long trip with it.
I had a long list before I bought this car of others that fit what I was looking for, but many of them did not have a back seat or option for a legitimate roof rack. It's amazing how much those two things have made a difference in the car's usability!
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      03-17-2018, 12:29 PM   #4
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by gjm120 View Post
So I guess this means no deal on trading suspensions

Good move. I honestly can't think of anything that I'd replace my 1er with. Like 911's but couldn't really go on any sort of long trip with it.
I had a long list before I bought this car of others that fit what I was looking for, but many of them did not have a back seat or option for a legitimate roof rack. It's amazing how much those two things have made a difference in the car's usability!
1er doesn't have a backseat either. Not for people at least
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      03-17-2018, 01:01 PM   #5
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Glad you're still with your 1er Matt, and still with us!
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      03-17-2018, 01:13 PM   #6
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The 1’er crushes all opposition...

Glad you’re planning to keep it a while longer! I’d hate to see you in something else
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      03-17-2018, 01:26 PM   #7
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Originally Posted by YearOneOne View Post
1er doesn't have a backseat either. Not for people at least
I've used it more than once! Smaller people only of course, fortunately my wife is small so she get's the "boot" usually

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Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
Glad you're still with your 1er Matt, and still with us!
Thanks Esteban, now I'm just trying to decide if I should go all-out with it or not lol

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Originally Posted by chris_flies View Post
The 1’er crushes all opposition...

Glad you’re planning to keep it a while longer! I’d hate to see you in something else
Lol I'll still likely get a Vette at some point, it'll just be a track car
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      03-17-2018, 01:46 PM   #8
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Originally Posted by Matticus91 View Post

Thanks Esteban, now I'm just trying to decide if I should go all-out with it or not lol
Judging by how many cars you've had in 10 years it sounds like you get that itch and need something different every now and again. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but maybe you're right that it's a good idea to make some upgrades to your car when you feel that way, to change things up a little.

I'm just the opposite these days. When I find something that fits, I stick with it, and my 1er fits me perfectly. Know where everything is, know what to expect from it. Like an old pair of really comfy slippers. But not everyone's like that and some just need a change. The excitement fades for some with familiarity, and they need that adrenaline rush.
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      03-17-2018, 01:47 PM   #9
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In my case the 1er does not have to perform quite as many roles.
All I expect from the car is to bring a smile to my face every summer morning when it takes me to work. And on the weekend drives I want it to remind me repeatedly why I bought it in the first place. And that it does.

But it's good to know this car is capable of so many other things - carrying groceries and baby seats and bicycles... perhaps those virtues are no longer as important for me these days... but I can appreciate the versatility, trust me.

As soon as I can think of a car that does everything that 1-er can, but also be better at it... I will likely look into it and perhaps give it a thought. Or maybe not.

It sure is a special car, and not just for you my friend.

Last edited by vinylengraver; 03-17-2018 at 06:17 PM..
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      03-17-2018, 03:23 PM   #10
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Sell it?
Stop eating Tide Pods!

LOL
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      03-17-2018, 04:01 PM   #11
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Great thread. I feel the same way. This is the first car I've had that I plan on keeping for years & years. It's small, nimble and drives like a sports car once you get the suspension fixes in place. The trunk is surprisingly big and with the seats down I've put all kinds of stuff in it on a Home Depot run. Not a much as my wife's Mini but enough.

Glad you are staying in the 1addicts support group (aka the asylum).

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      03-17-2018, 05:08 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by YearOneOne View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Matticus91 View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by gjm120 View Post
So I guess this means no deal on trading suspensions

Good move. I honestly can't think of anything that I'd replace my 1er with. Like 911's but couldn't really go on any sort of long trip with it.
I had a long list before I bought this car of others that fit what I was looking for, but many of them did not have a back seat or option for a legitimate roof rack. It's amazing how much those two things have made a difference in the car's usability!
1er doesn't have a backseat either. Not for people at least
I've found that people rarely complain about backseat space when their only other options are to walk or take an uber
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      03-17-2018, 05:20 PM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by asiflicious View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by YearOneOne View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Matticus91 View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by gjm120 View Post
So I guess this means no deal on trading suspensions

Good move. I honestly can't think of anything that I'd replace my 1er with. Like 911's but couldn't really go on any sort of long trip with it.
I had a long list before I bought this car of others that fit what I was looking for, but many of them did not have a back seat or option for a legitimate roof rack. It's amazing how much those two things have made a difference in the car's usability!
1er doesn't have a backseat either. Not for people at least
I've found that people rarely complain about backseat space when their only other options are to walk or take an uber
I don't even give them the option. I have rather lengthy legs so definitely no one behind my seat
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      03-17-2018, 05:29 PM   #14
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Back seat in the 1er is more for insurance purposes than people I think...
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      03-17-2018, 06:02 PM   #15
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Great mini write up and pics, Matt! Can't agree more.


Realistically, what can you compare the 1 series to nowadays?

• Short wheelbase, nimble chassis
• 2 door coupe
• Comfortable daily
• Strong, smooth motor
• Interior space isn't useless (sorry, roadsters!)
• RWD
• Easily found in manual
• Decently priced on the used market
• Strong aftermarket
• Niche community that still has a strong aftermarket (thank you E90!)

Off the top of my head I can think of only these:
• Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ - everyone has one, and not a strong motor (but I admit the car is a great platform)
• Nissan 350z, 370z, G35, G37 - again not niche, has rumbly V6 , bigger, worse interior (G's are good.. but the 350z, oh man)
• BMW E92 - just a heavy 1 series
• Chevy Camaro - different strokes for different folks but I hear the visibility is awful, also they're everywhere
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      03-17-2018, 06:27 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by desertman123 View Post
Great mini write up and pics, Matt! Can't agree more.


Realistically, what can you compare the 1 series to nowadays?

• Short wheelbase, nimble chassis
• 2 door coupe
• Comfortable daily
• Strong, smooth motor
• Interior space isn't useless (sorry, roadsters!)
• RWD
• Easily found in manual
• Decently priced on the used market
• Strong aftermarket
• Niche community that still has a strong aftermarket (thank you E90!)

Off the top of my head I can think of only these:
• Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ - everyone has one, and not a strong motor (but I admit the car is a great platform)
• Nissan 350z, 370z, G35, G37 - again not niche, has rumbly V6 , bigger, worse interior (G's are good.. but the 350z, oh man)
• BMW E92 - just a heavy 1 series
• Chevy Camaro - different strokes for different folks but I hear the visibility is awful, also they're everywhere
I'd add the new Mustang to that, but it just seems like such a big car. It does have a great chassis, decent trunk space, a bigger rear seat, a (sorry) nicer interior, has much better visibility than the Camaro, can be quite comfy, has a HUGE aftermarket, every thing's a manual unless it isn't, they're well-priced as new.
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      03-17-2018, 06:54 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by chris_flies View Post
I'd add the new Mustang to that, but it just seems like such a big car. It does have a great chassis, decent trunk space, a bigger rear seat, a (sorry) nicer interior, has much better visibility than the Camaro, can be quite comfy, has a HUGE aftermarket, every thing's a manual unless it isn't, they're well-priced as new.
I'd have to test drive one. What I'd look for in this case is road noise/NVH. I imagine they'll be pretty similar though since the 1 series has a little bit of cost-cutting in it. I know they can put down a mean lap time though.

But then you'd be cool like 40 of your friends, all driving MUSTANGS.
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      03-17-2018, 07:10 PM   #18
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
Judging by how many cars you've had in 10 years it sounds like you get that itch and need something different every now and again. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but maybe you're right that it's a good idea to make some upgrades to your car when you feel that way, to change things up a little.

I'm just the opposite these days. When I find something that fits, I stick with it, and my 1er fits me perfectly. Know where everything is, know what to expect from it. Like an old pair of really comfy slippers. But not everyone's like that and some just need a change. The excitement fades for some with familiarity, and they need that adrenaline rush.
Funny thing is I pretty much "FBO'd" everything I've owned lol. I was just left wanting more with most of them!

Quote:
Originally Posted by desertman123 View Post
Great mini write up and pics, Matt! Can't agree more.


Realistically, what can you compare the 1 series to nowadays?

• Short wheelbase, nimble chassis
• 2 door coupe
• Comfortable daily
• Strong, smooth motor
• Interior space isn't useless (sorry, roadsters!)
• RWD
• Easily found in manual
• Decently priced on the used market
• Strong aftermarket
• Niche community that still has a strong aftermarket (thank you E90!)

Off the top of my head I can think of only these:
• Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ - everyone has one, and not a strong motor (but I admit the car is a great platform)
• Nissan 350z, 370z, G35, G37 - again not niche, has rumbly V6 , bigger, worse interior (G's are good.. but the 350z, oh man)
• BMW E92 - just a heavy 1 series
• Chevy Camaro - different strokes for different folks but I hear the visibility is awful, also they're everywhere
Quote:
Originally Posted by chris_flies View Post
I'd add the new Mustang to that, but it just seems like such a big car. It does have a great chassis, decent trunk space, a bigger rear seat, a (sorry) nicer interior, has much better visibility than the Camaro, can be quite comfy, has a HUGE aftermarket, every thing's a manual unless it isn't, they're well-priced as new.
What you guys covered is pretty much the list. If you open it to sedans I'd include the WRX but personally I just want more power and RWD is crucial to me.

I drove a completely loaded (sticker was over $41k... FOR A MUSTANG) 2017 GT a while back and was absolutely not impressed, not even considering how much it cost. It felt massive, boaty, and while it had good power I just didn't find it to have much feel.

The Z's don't have back seats and, along with the rest of the list, all can be found on the road on a daily basis. I never thought I'd care but I really like that the 1 kind of flies under the radar and few know what it is.
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      03-17-2018, 09:52 PM   #19
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Just for grins and giggles you should go test drive an X1 xdrive 35i

It's the same, only different...

Having both a 1 and an x1 is pretty cool, I'm very fond of both.
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      03-17-2018, 10:00 PM   #20
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I never thought I'd care but I really like that the 1 kind of flies under the radar and few know what it is.
Yeah... I like that as well. And happens to me all the time. "Is that an M3?" lol

Introduced to the US in 2008 and sold here until 2013 and they've never even heard of a 1 series. Most people are clueless about our little secret.
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      03-17-2018, 10:07 PM   #21
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Yeah... I like that as well. And happens to me all the time. "Is that an M3?" lol

Introduced to the US in 2008 and sold here until 2013 and they've never even heard of a 1 series. Most people are clueless about our little secret.
I'm impressed by how many people think it's new, and expensive. They're amazed when I tell them that it's almost ten years old and the admission price is pretty low actually...

Staying in the game..., well, it's an n54, soooooo it's inexpensive to own too. Till it's not
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      03-17-2018, 10:13 PM   #22
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I'm impressed by how many people think it's new, and expensive. They're amazed when I tell them that it's almost ten years old and the admission price is pretty low actually...

Staying in the game..., well, it's an n54, soooooo it's inexpensive to own too. Till it's not
I think it gets better with age. I see a little of the E46 in our cars, which in my opinion, is an ageless beauty. Funny, cause some people find the 1er ugly. Huh?? I just don't see that at all.
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