Do you prefer the 1 to 3?

Brissie · 04-22-2010, 08:37 AM

Had my car serviced the other day, well, inspected rather than serviced, since no oil change or actual service was done. Got a 320d coupe to drive for a day. Put on about 250km. Must say I like the 3 coupe more than the 1, diesel engine not withstanding. The 320d actually has pretty good mid range, and pulls quite well. More lag done low, and less responsive than the 135 of course. It is also reasonably quite at cruising for a diesel. The performance is actually quite adequate if you are not after a performance car.
I like the fact that the 3 has more room, looks much better IMO, with better interior, though the seats, instrument dials and some of the switch gears are the same as in the 1. I also like that it rides better, less fidgety, and feels more planted as well. The diesel has great fuel consumption, averaged under 8l/100 despite my heavy foot.
So, if the 335 only costs say 15k more than the 135 I probably would have bought the 335. Who actually prefer the 135 to 335, or did you buy the 1 because it was a better buy than the 335?
I know I drove the 320d not the 335, but I had previously driven a friend's 335 and liked it.

BigBoss168 · 04-22-2010, 08:57 AM

From my post in the M1 thread:

The 3-series was never on my list when it came to replacing my Boxster. Even though I was considering more expensive machinery, personally I think the 50% premium for the 335 over the 135 just can't be justified. Also, I test drove one and preferred the more compact dimensions of the 1.

My shortlist was (in addition to the 135i coupe):
- Current model Boxster/Cayman S
- 2005-6 997 Carrera
- 370Z
- Audi TT-S
- E92 M3 sedan
- 2005-6 E46 M3 coupe
- And of course a lightly-used C63 AMG

Ultimately the choice of the 1-series from the list came down to a) wanting to drive something different to my Boxster and b) I needed something a bit more driveable in the city because I live in the CBD c) I was nervous about the 4-5 year old cars and d) unbeatable value for money.

BBK · 04-22-2010, 05:51 PM

I too have mentioned a few times that I preferred the 1. I am under 30, and personally felt that the 3 was too old for me. I liked the compact size (came from a Mini CooperS) and liked that it was a LOT rarer than the 3.

I actually liked how it looked (but will say the 3 looks better).

micha3l · 04-22-2010, 05:51 PM

My shortlist was:
- Audi TT-S - Didn't enjoy it as much as the 335i
- Audi S5 - looked great, but to me felt to big.
- BMW 335i - Pick of the bunch
- BMW e92 M3 - New one was a stretch on the budget, never like buying 2nd hand (was very tempting though!)

Was never even considering the 135i because I didnt like the look of it.

Went to motorline and saw one in Space Grey and fell in love!

After driving it, I liked the feel of the 135i alot more than the 335i, felt more engaging and agile. Better brakes, and the same engine in a lighter car for $40k less, easy decision.

Dash design with iDrive in the 335i was nicer, stereo was better, but at the end of the day in this car I hardly listen to the radio at decent volumes anymore, always have a window/sunroof open to listen to the engine!

Looking back now, don't regret the decision at all, I would make the same decision and pick the 135i again

MikeVictor · 04-22-2010, 06:32 PM

I think the 335 would be a fantastic car, I love the lines and the finish. I bought the 135 because:

1) Driving it made me grin like a drooling idiot.
2) It looks great
3) The emphasis for me was on performance and handling, with which I feel the 135 is ahead
4) budget wise dealing with a GFC it made more sense. A divorce later and I'm also glad of this in hindsight.

As far as change-over in a couple of years, if I change-over, it'll either be the next-gen 1er, maybe a 3er or an X3 if family is a consideration.

05C4R · 04-22-2010, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmw135fan

Had my car serviced the other day, well, inspected rather than serviced, since no oil change or actual service was done. Got a 320d coupe to drive for a day. Put on about 250km. Must say I like the 3 coupe more than the 1, diesel engine not withstanding. The 320d actually has pretty good mid range, and pulls quite well. More lag done low, and less responsive than the 135 of course. It is also reasonably quite at cruising for a diesel. The performance is actually quite adequate if you are not after a performance car.
I like the fact that the 3 has more room, looks much better IMO, with better interior, though the seats, instrument dials and some of the switch gears are the same as in the 1. I also like that it rides better, less fidgety, and feels more planted as well. The diesel has great fuel consumption, averaged under 8l/100 despite my heavy foot.
So, if the 335 only costs say 15k more than the 135 I probably would have bought the 335. Who actually prefer the 135 to 335, or did you buy the 1 because it was a better buy than the 335?
I know I drove the 320d not the 335, but I had previously driven a friend's 335 and liked it.

sounds like you were feeling a little under the weather that day for a 320d to excite you

chappy · 04-22-2010, 07:22 PM

As i have a 335 m-sport coupe i love it but i love the 1 series as well maybe doesn't look as nice as the 3 coupe but bmw has marketed the 1 series for a younger clients and the 3 older clients as i'm in my 50's maybe i might buy a smaller car later who knows each to there own both great cars and would be happy with 1 series as well.
You can say the same as 3series against 5 series as i view the 5 series to be older than 50 clients
But i wont be buying a 5 series.

Brissie · 04-22-2010, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by beemer

sounds like you were feeling a little under the weather that day for a 320d to excite you

May be I am getting too old.

. No, the 320d didn't excite me, just saying the performance was better than I expected, and I like the chassis and overall feel of the car itself.

harpoon · 04-22-2010, 08:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mattyv

I think the 335 would be a fantastic car, I love the lines and the finish. I bought the 135 because:

1) Driving it made me grin like a drooling idiot.
2) It looks great
3) The emphasis for me was on performance and handling, with which I feel the 135 is ahead
4) budget wise dealing with a GFC it made more sense. A divorce later and I'm also glad of this in hindsight.

.

Agree 100%. I think the 335 is a stunning looking car.

TimMc · 04-22-2010, 09:49 PM

I took my brother's 335 auto sedan for a spin around Sydney CBD on Tuesday. In peak hour traffic...

Personally I like the smaller dimensions of the 1 but there were two things I noted. Ride was MUCH more comfortable in the 3 and steering was much heavier. Tyres are 17" 225 & 255.

mac135i · 04-22-2010, 10:21 PM

I never considered a 3 when replacing the GTI with the 135.

There is no doubt that the 3 is a hugely capable car- especially when you are looking at models like the 335.

My issue with the 3 is that everyone owns one and are too common for my liking. So I might be snob. On the other hand I car aware enough not to buy a Citroen or a Saab for example in a bid for some exclusivity.

BTW The GTI is also far too common now too - but is wasn't when I got mine in mid 2005

I like it that we can spot our Coupes and verts from the mass of Holdens, Toyotas, Hyundais (and 3 series) driving around us.

NJL · 04-22-2010, 10:22 PM

I agree with the sentiment that the 3 feels too old for me, I love the 1 series, but then again I love cars that tend to be "underdogs" or punching above their weight which I believe the 1 series does right across the range - 125i inclusive.

BMW86 · 04-22-2010, 11:07 PM

I think the 135i is a miniature version of it's bigger brother. If I was 5-10 years older I'd take the 335i but the 135i suits me down to a tee. I'm fairly young and I love the pocket rocket segment BMW is taking on.

Also, I can't justify the price difference between the 2 cars. I think the cars are too similar to be forking out so much more for what I see as almost the same car.

CeeJay · 04-22-2010, 11:39 PM

Considered a 335 demo coupe but after driving it just felt a bit underwhelmed. More of a GT type feel than what I was expecting, although still a very nice car and love the coupe shape .
Bought the 135 without a test drive as none were yet in Oz, but the day I picked it up and left the showroom in it I was trying to wipe the grin off my face.
Felt so much better to me to drive than the 335 and I've never regretted it.
Also driven the 320D and while a nice enough car, just doesnt have the performance in all aspects to excite me in any way.
Just my opinion and plenty may disagree..

chappy · 04-22-2010, 11:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMW86

I think the 135i is a miniature version of it's bigger brother. If I was 5-10 years older I'd take the 335i but the 135i suits me down to a tee. I'm fairly young and I love the pocket rocket segment BMW is taking on.

Also, I can't justify the price difference between the 2 cars. I think the cars are too similar to be forking out so much more for what I see as almost the same car.

Can you justify the price from 135 $85000 to a $190000 m3 coupe that is.
I guess money is no object when buying an m3 the gap just gets bigger and bigger.
If i had the spare $190000 lying around i would buy a m3 my wife would kill me tho.

BMW86 · 04-23-2010, 12:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chappy

Can you justify the price from 135 $85000 to a $190000 m3 coupe that is.
I guess money is no object when buying an m3 the gap just gets bigger and bigger.
If i had the spare $190000 lying around i would buy a m3 my wife would kill me tho.

I feel like the 135i has the market covered if you want a DD sports car for 85k. There are other options but the 135i usually comes out on top and is the best choice for its price range.

When you start spending M3 money I think you have to really consider what else you could get as there are real contenders that give it a run for its money.

d3syd · 04-23-2010, 01:14 AM

I was making enquiries about buying a 335i coupe, came home and saw a review of the 135i in the paper (this was before the car was released in Oz). Liked the small car big engine idea and most of all the $$ saving. Glowing review after glowing review, and I knew I had to have one.

Agree that the 3 coupe looks better though.

I love that period of excitement and anticipation you go through when you start looking to buy a new car, almost like you know you are going to be expecting another baby or something. lol.

At the moment I am toying with the idea of replacing my Disco 3 with a Disco 4 or RR Sport. Hmmm, now when can I get to town to pick up some brochures and price lists....

BMWDave · 04-23-2010, 02:01 AM

I love the small, nippiness of the 1. Especially when weaving through traffic, around the slow moving cars in the right hand lane. However, the 3 is just a much, much better looking car in my opinion (under 30 y.o). Not worth the considerable cost premium over the 1, i don't care how good it is. Would i trade up to the 335i? No. Would I trade up to the M3, in a heartbeat.

sparoz · 04-23-2010, 02:11 AM

I prefer the 1er. I did a back to back when they had like 20k off the 335i (and I think there's a thread on it). 1er is more nimble and direct compare to the 335i - it felt sluggish compare to the 1 even with a DCT box.

Having said that, I would like the 1er to have more luxury options like the climate comfort windscreen and individual hi fi etc.

Brissie · 04-23-2010, 06:03 AM

Interestingly that so many people prefer the smaller 1 series due to it's compact size and being more nimble. I for one don't feel that the 3 is too big or too clumpsy, and it is really not much heavier than an equivalent 1 series.

jkho · 04-23-2010, 08:52 AM

3 words --> "bang for buck"

Gumball · 04-24-2010, 03:03 AM

Was chatting to a mate today and I told him I never bought the 135i for the badge but for the N54 in such a small car. Never had any interest in a BMW until the 135i and to be honest I may never buy another BMW. I feel the N54 135i is a very special car with huge gains possible due to procede, JB3 etc and that's why I bought one.

04-22-2010, 08:37 AM	#1
Brissie Lieutenant 36 Rep 579 Posts Drives: 135 Join Date: May 2009 Location: brisbane, Oz iTrader: (0)	Do you prefer the 1 to 3? Had my car serviced the other day, well, inspected rather than serviced, since no oil change or actual service was done. Got a 320d coupe to drive for a day. Put on about 250km. Must say I like the 3 coupe more than the 1, diesel engine not withstanding. The 320d actually has pretty good mid range, and pulls quite well. More lag done low, and less responsive than the 135 of course. It is also reasonably quite at cruising for a diesel. The performance is actually quite adequate if you are not after a performance car. I like the fact that the 3 has more room, looks much better IMO, with better interior, though the seats, instrument dials and some of the switch gears are the same as in the 1. I also like that it rides better, less fidgety, and feels more planted as well. The diesel has great fuel consumption, averaged under 8l/100 despite my heavy foot. So, if the 335 only costs say 15k more than the 135 I probably would have bought the 335. Who actually prefer the 135 to 335, or did you buy the 1 because it was a better buy than the 335? I know I drove the 320d not the 335, but I had previously driven a friend's 335 and liked it.
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04-22-2010, 08:57 AM	#2
BigBoss168 Private First Class 15 Rep 193 Posts Drives: 135i coupe manual Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	From my post in the M1 thread: The 3-series was never on my list when it came to replacing my Boxster. Even though I was considering more expensive machinery, personally I think the 50% premium for the 335 over the 135 just can't be justified. Also, I test drove one and preferred the more compact dimensions of the 1. My shortlist was (in addition to the 135i coupe): - Current model Boxster/Cayman S - 2005-6 997 Carrera - 370Z - Audi TT-S - E92 M3 sedan - 2005-6 E46 M3 coupe - And of course a lightly-used C63 AMG Ultimately the choice of the 1-series from the list came down to a) wanting to drive something different to my Boxster and b) I needed something a bit more driveable in the city because I live in the CBD c) I was nervous about the 4-5 year old cars and d) unbeatable value for money.
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04-22-2010, 05:51 PM	#3
BBK Banned 88 Rep 3,070 Posts Drives: A boring one... Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 BMW 135i [5.76]	I too have mentioned a few times that I preferred the 1. I am under 30, and personally felt that the 3 was too old for me. I liked the compact size (came from a Mini CooperS) and liked that it was a LOT rarer than the 3. I actually liked how it looked (but will say the 3 looks better).
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04-22-2010, 05:51 PM	#4
micha3l Lieutenant 26 Rep 513 Posts Drives: 2011 BMW M3 Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Brisbane, Australia iTrader: (0)	My shortlist was: - Audi TT-S - Didn't enjoy it as much as the 335i - Audi S5 - looked great, but to me felt to big. - BMW 335i - Pick of the bunch - BMW e92 M3 - New one was a stretch on the budget, never like buying 2nd hand (was very tempting though!) Was never even considering the 135i because I didnt like the look of it. Went to motorline and saw one in Space Grey and fell in love! After driving it, I liked the feel of the 135i alot more than the 335i, felt more engaging and agile. Better brakes, and the same engine in a lighter car for $40k less, easy decision. Dash design with iDrive in the 335i was nicer, stereo was better, but at the end of the day in this car I hardly listen to the radio at decent volumes anymore, always have a window/sunroof open to listen to the engine! Looking back now, don't regret the decision at all, I would make the same decision and pick the 135i again
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04-22-2010, 06:32 PM	#5
MikeVictor Brigadier General 210 Rep 3,288 Posts Drives: anything given a chance Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: .au iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 Mazda ND MX-5 [10.00]	I think the 335 would be a fantastic car, I love the lines and the finish. I bought the 135 because: 1) Driving it made me grin like a drooling idiot. 2) It looks great 3) The emphasis for me was on performance and handling, with which I feel the 135 is ahead 4) budget wise dealing with a GFC it made more sense. A divorce later and I'm also glad of this in hindsight. As far as change-over in a couple of years, if I change-over, it'll either be the next-gen 1er, maybe a 3er or an X3 if family is a consideration.
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04-22-2010, 07:22 PM	#7
chappy Captain 102 Rep 693 Posts Drives: 335 M-SPORT COUPE Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Brisbane Australia iTrader: (0)	As i have a 335 m-sport coupe i love it but i love the 1 series as well maybe doesn't look as nice as the 3 coupe but bmw has marketed the 1 series for a younger clients and the 3 older clients as i'm in my 50's maybe i might buy a smaller car later who knows each to there own both great cars and would be happy with 1 series as well. You can say the same as 3series against 5 series as i view the 5 series to be older than 50 clients But i wont be buying a 5 series. __________________ THE BEAST MHD Flash Tune /M3 suspension/Forge Intercooler/Alpina B3 AT Flash/Bilstein B4 Suspension/BMW OEM M3 Steering Wheel and DCT Paddles/LUX V4 Angel Eyes/CIC Retrofitted
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04-22-2010, 09:49 PM	#10
TimMc Lieutenant Colonel 44 Rep 1,883 Posts Drives: E90 M3 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Brisbane, Australia iTrader: (0)	I took my brother's 335 auto sedan for a spin around Sydney CBD on Tuesday. In peak hour traffic... Personally I like the smaller dimensions of the 1 but there were two things I noted. Ride was MUCH more comfortable in the 3 and steering was much heavier. Tyres are 17" 225 & 255.
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04-22-2010, 10:21 PM	#11
mac135i Private 0 Rep 70 Posts Drives: 135i, black, auto, s'roof Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Melbourne iTrader: (0)	I never considered a 3 when replacing the GTI with the 135. There is no doubt that the 3 is a hugely capable car- especially when you are looking at models like the 335. My issue with the 3 is that everyone owns one and are too common for my liking. So I might be snob. On the other hand I car aware enough not to buy a Citroen or a Saab for example in a bid for some exclusivity. BTW The GTI is also far too common now too - but is wasn't when I got mine in mid 2005 I like it that we can spot our Coupes and verts from the mass of Holdens, Toyotas, Hyundais (and 3 series) driving around us.
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04-22-2010, 10:22 PM	#12
NJL Enlisted Member 3 Rep 31 Posts Drives: 125i Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Gold Coast, Australia iTrader: (0)	I agree with the sentiment that the 3 feels too old for me, I love the 1 series, but then again I love cars that tend to be "underdogs" or punching above their weight which I believe the 1 series does right across the range - 125i inclusive.
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04-22-2010, 11:07 PM	#13
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	I think the 135i is a miniature version of it's bigger brother. If I was 5-10 years older I'd take the 335i but the 135i suits me down to a tee. I'm fairly young and I love the pocket rocket segment BMW is taking on. Also, I can't justify the price difference between the 2 cars. I think the cars are too similar to be forking out so much more for what I see as almost the same car.
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04-22-2010, 11:39 PM	#14
CeeJay Private 0 Rep 76 Posts Drives: Join Date: May 2008 iTrader: (0)	Considered a 335 demo coupe but after driving it just felt a bit underwhelmed. More of a GT type feel than what I was expecting, although still a very nice car and love the coupe shape . Bought the 135 without a test drive as none were yet in Oz, but the day I picked it up and left the showroom in it I was trying to wipe the grin off my face. Felt so much better to me to drive than the 335 and I've never regretted it. Also driven the 320D and while a nice enough car, just doesnt have the performance in all aspects to excite me in any way. Just my opinion and plenty may disagree..
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04-23-2010, 01:14 AM	#17
d3syd Major 50 Rep 1,474 Posts Drives: 135i MT, LMB, ProNav Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Scamander, Tasmania iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i Coupe [0.00]	I was making enquiries about buying a 335i coupe, came home and saw a review of the 135i in the paper (this was before the car was released in Oz). Liked the small car big engine idea and most of all the $$ saving. Glowing review after glowing review, and I knew I had to have one. Agree that the 3 coupe looks better though. I love that period of excitement and anticipation you go through when you start looking to buy a new car, almost like you know you are going to be expecting another baby or something. lol. At the moment I am toying with the idea of replacing my Disco 3 with a Disco 4 or RR Sport. Hmmm, now when can I get to town to pick up some brochures and price lists.... __________________ Fun Car: 135i Manual LeMans Blue / Beige Leather / Grey Poplar / pro nav / euro plates. Delivered 24 June 08 Family Car: Land Rover Discovery 4 SDV6 Spare Car: Volvo V70 Sydney Car: MB 420SEL Last edited by d3syd; 04-23-2010 at 04:02 AM..
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04-23-2010, 02:01 AM	#18
BMWDave Totally Add1cted 17 Rep 503 Posts Drives: X1 Xdrive23d Join Date: May 2008 Location: Perth, Australia iTrader: (1) Garage List 2011 BMW X1 23d [7.66]	I love the small, nippiness of the 1. Especially when weaving through traffic, around the slow moving cars in the right hand lane. However, the 3 is just a much, much better looking car in my opinion (under 30 y.o). Not worth the considerable cost premium over the 1, i don't care how good it is. Would i trade up to the 335i? No. Would I trade up to the M3, in a heartbeat. __________________ Proud new owner of a X1 23d in Jet Black
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04-23-2010, 02:11 AM	#19
sparoz Brigadier General 191 Rep 4,848 Posts Drives: VO 1///M; Macan Turbo Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Sunshine Coast iTrader: (0)	I prefer the 1er. I did a back to back when they had like 20k off the 335i (and I think there's a thread on it). 1er is more nimble and direct compare to the 335i - it felt sluggish compare to the 1 even with a DCT box. Having said that, I would like the 1er to have more luxury options like the climate comfort windscreen and individual hi fi etc. __________________ Macan S Diesel - Carrera White Macan Turbo - White 1///M - Valencia Orange
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04-23-2010, 06:03 AM	#20
Brissie Lieutenant 36 Rep 579 Posts Drives: 135 Join Date: May 2009 Location: brisbane, Oz iTrader: (0)	Interestingly that so many people prefer the smaller 1 series due to it's compact size and being more nimble. I for one don't feel that the 3 is too big or too clumpsy, and it is really not much heavier than an equivalent 1 series.
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04-23-2010, 08:52 AM	#21
jkho Second Lieutenant 6 Rep 201 Posts Drives: Black MY09 E82 125i Coupe Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	3 words --> "bang for buck" __________________ MY09 E82 125i M-sports Coupe --> \| Black/Black \| Rims: 18" 261s \| CF spoiler \| Xenons: Philips X-tremeVision 4800k \| AE: PIAA Hyper Arros 5k \|
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04-24-2010, 03:03 AM	#22
Gumball Lieutenant 12 Rep 599 Posts Drives: A45 Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	Was chatting to a mate today and I told him I never bought the 135i for the badge but for the N54 in such a small car. Never had any interest in a BMW until the 135i and to be honest I may never buy another BMW. I feel the N54 135i is a very special car with huge gains possible due to procede, JB3 etc and that's why I bought one.
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