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      02-14-2013, 01:03 PM   #1
MLSavage
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Am I missing anything?

After researching this over the past couple weeks I have determined the specific model years of the 135i that I'm targeting. I have narrowed it down to the 2010-2012 year range. 2012's will probably be out of my price range but I include them in my searches regardless.

This purchase would become my DD, I do want to track the car and therefore tune the car. Not so much engine wise initially, maybe the PPK to keep the warranty intact with a little extra power.

My checklist is:
Alpine White
MT
M-Sport package (full, 2011 is possible to have M steering wheel, door sill, shifter without wheels)
Red interior is #1 choice, but would take anything except brown.
Don't want/need NAV, don't need power seats, don't want a sunroof but every single car I've seen comes with it so I can live with it.

I have compiled the list of differences in the 135's (post below)

As far as I can tell the only, and major, difference from 2010 and beyond is the swap from N54 to N55. While this is a significant change in terms of it is a different engine with different characteristics; such as mods are different and more options for the N54. Factory tuned they are essentially the same, correct? I have yet to seen anything confirming otherwise.
Is there any confirmation of any measurable differences (not speculation) of N54 vs n55? Torque range or fuel economy?

My number one question for you guys is do I go for a n54 powered 2010 that is available now, low miles, I could haggle to get it in my price range or do I wait for a N55 powered 2011? The 2010 is not local but I have family where it is located. The only deviation from my wishlist is that it has an all black interior.
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      02-14-2013, 01:03 PM   #2
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This is a compilation of information from http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=414111

Engine
- 2008 - 2010 models have the twin turbo N54 engine
- 2011 models have the twinscroll (single) turbo N55 engine
Both are rated at 300hp/300tq and have similar performance. Stock vs Stock, the N55 has a slightly louder rumble. Especially on cold starts.

N54
- Twin Turbo setup
- Easier to get more power from pnp tunes
- HPFP Issue, check the numerous threads and sticky in General Discussion. Warranty for N54 engine HPFP has been extended to 10 years or 100,000 miles.

N55
- TwinScroll single Turbo
- Pnp tunes in testing, but not quite as much gains as N54 tune
- So far no confirmed reports of HPFP issue
- Supposedly reaches peak torque at ~200 less RPM than N54

Sport / M-Sport
- 2008-2011 models had the M-Sport option which included sport package + M Sport style 261M wheels, M door sills, and Anthracite (black) headliner.

Transmission
- 2008-2010 had the option of Steptronic or 6MT
- 2011 128i maintains Step or 6MT
- 2011 135i has the option of Dual Clutch transmission or 6MT
- 2011 128i Steptronic paddles are right side up and left side downshift instead of previous method of push for up and pull for down

Mirrors
- 2008-2009 have smaller mirrors
- 2010-2011 have larger mirrors

Colors
- 2008 model year was the only year to offer Sparkling Graphite Metallic
- 2009-2011 introduces Le Mans Blue Metallic available only with the M-Sport Package
- 2008-2009 offered Monaco Blue
- 2010-2011 Deep Sea Blue replaced Monaco Blue

Value Package
- 2011 models have the Value Package option which includes leather interior and i-Pod connectivity at no cost

2009-2011 models had the M-Sport option which included sport package + M Sport style 261M wheels, M door sills, and Anthracite (black) headliner.
and Increased top speed limiter and Shadowline exterior trim and M shift knob and M hand brake handle, and the M Steering wheel if you didn't order the Cold Weather Package.
Yes, M-Sport includes everything the Sport package has and adds the headliner, M door sills, and M Wheels. You can still get the Sport package alone for 2009-11 models but M Sport was/is only a $200 addition.
Some owners with '10/'11 models have retrofitted the smaller '08/'09 mirrors on their cars.

This means that a 2011 135i could have the m steering wheel, m shifter and m door sill along with 264( none m)wheels?
YES, I have seen this.

Model Year 2010 1 Series Equipment Changes (all models)
1. • Option 653, HD Radio, is now standard equipment on all 1 series models
2. • Option 5AC, Automatic High Beams, is now available for $250
3. • The standard Hi-Fi Sound System, option 676, has been removed. 663 Radio BMW Professional is the standard sound system. Premium Hi-Fi option 677 remains available.
4. • New metallic paint color Deep Sea Blue replaces Monaco Blue.
Model Year 2010 128i Equipment Changes
1. A new 16’’ standard wheel 2K9, style 360, replaces wheel 2KN, style 255, on the 128i Convertible only.
2. Moonroof has been removed from the standard profile of the 128i Coupe only and is now included in the Premium Package ($4,100) or as single option 403 for $1,050.
3. Stereo options were different between the years, as well.

2008:
Base Stereo - 10 speakers and external amp; this was the mid-level stereo upgrade in the rest of the world and is known as Hi-Fi)
Harmon Kardon - upgraded Base Stereo speakers and amp with H/K parts (known as Top Hi-Fi)

2009:
Base Stereo - 8 speakers and head unit amplification (actual base stereo available in the rest of the world)
Harmon Kardon - 10 H/K speakers and external amp (Top Hi-Fi)

2010-2012:
Same as 2008 cars

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong!
My 2009 Base Stereo has 10 speakers. The 2010 has 8. The 2011 and newer went back to 10.

Alarm pre-wiring only thru Feb 2009 build date.

*We are missing the iDrive differences throughout the years.
*I would also like to update this through MY '13

Last edited by MLSavage; 02-14-2013 at 01:43 PM.. Reason: info correction
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      02-14-2013, 01:11 PM   #3
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Will you plan on mod-ing your future 135i ? I think that will determine whether you go N54 or N55.

2010's came with a downgraded base stereo system. So you might want to find a car with HK. Also starting in 2011, bmw changed the rear suspension springs from progressive to linear. Some say that makes the rear of the car have less wiggle.
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      02-14-2013, 01:39 PM   #4
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Sport / M-Sport
- 2008 only had the Sport Package option which included shadowline trim, sport seats and the M Steering wheel
- 2009-2011 models had the M-Sport option which included sport package + M Sport style 261M wheels, M door sills, and Anthracite (black) headliner.


In-correct, my 2008 has the full M-Sport package with the M Sport style 261M wheels, M door sills, and Anthracite (black) headliner, M steering wheel, M shifter knob, M sport seats, Shadow-line trim, and increased top speed....
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      02-14-2013, 01:47 PM   #5
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2011...Hands down. I am biased though. However, I did fair some of the same questions as you before purchasing my car. I was looking at a loaded 2010 135i 6MT. The main reason I chose the 2011 was because it has more warranty left, lower mileage, DCT, and new iDrive. (in that order) I absolutely love manual transmission and all my previous cars had been manual. It was what I wanted at first, but since I was purchasing a car as my daily driver, getting a DCT optioned 135i just made more since. Also, once I drove it and put it in sport mode and used the paddles....OMG....lighting fast.
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      02-14-2013, 01:50 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Dackelone View Post
Will you plan on mod-ing your future 135i ? I think that will determine whether you go N54 or N55.

2010's came with a downgraded base stereo system. So you might want to find a car with HK. Also starting in 2011, bmw changed the rear suspension springs from progressive to linear. Some say that makes the rear of the car have less wiggle.
I would lean towards a PPK and that be the end of it. If I were I would pick something slightly more aggressive than the PPK. I don't see myself going to the extent of some of the guys on here as long as this is my DD. Now if I get a significant income increase and have disposable income for a separate DD, anything is possible. By that time I think the N55 would be more easily tunable (assumption).

Quote:
Originally Posted by SAM135iAM View Post
2011...Hands down. I am biased though. However, I did fair some of the same questions as you before purchasing my car. I was looking at a loaded 2010 135i 6MT. The main reason I chose the 2011 was because it has more warranty left, lower mileage, DCT, and new iDrive. (in that order) I absolutely love manual transmission and all my previous cars had been manual. It was what I wanted at first, but since I was purchasing a car as my daily driver, getting a DCT optioned 135i just made more since. Also, once I drove it and put it in sport mode and used the paddles....OMG....lighting fast.
I'm definitely only considering a MT, however, I have heard how nice the DCT is. A clear example of technology changing for the better in car making.

The longer warranty remaining on the 2011 makes sense, but from what I've seen the miles are essentially the same and the 2011's having more than the specific 2010 I'm looking at. (which is here http://www.leithbmw.com/used-Raleigh...UC7C57AVK80980 )

Last edited by MLSavage; 02-14-2013 at 01:54 PM.. Reason: reply to Sam
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      02-14-2013, 02:05 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MLSavage View Post
I would lean towards a PPK and that be the end of it. If I were I would pick something slightly more aggressive than the PPK. I don't see myself going to the extent of some of the guys on here as long as this is my DD. Now if I get a significant income increase and have disposable income for a separate DD, anything is possible. By that time I think the N55 would be more easily tunable (assumption).
That assumption is fairly inaccurate. In stock form, the N54 has significantly more headroom in the motor in stock form than the N55 does for a few reasons, mainly the turbo configuration however. If you were to ever want to go for big power, the N54 will be much easier than the N55. A lot of companies are abandoning aftermarket turbo modifications and upgrades for the N55 because its a huge undertaking based on the twin-scroll design and difficult boost control.

Now, that doesn't mean there wont be aftermarket single-turbo setups, but the work and cost involved in that is much much more than just a relatively simple turbo swap, like the RB turbos are for the N54.
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      02-14-2013, 02:27 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by b1aze View Post
That assumption is fairly inaccurate. In stock form, the N54 has significantly more headroom in the motor in stock form than the N55 does for a few reasons, mainly the turbo configuration however. If you were to ever want to go for big power, the N54 will be much easier than the N55. A lot of companies are abandoning aftermarket turbo modifications and upgrades for the N55 because its a huge undertaking based on the twin-scroll design and difficult boost control.

Now, that doesn't mean there wont be aftermarket single-turbo setups, but the work and cost involved in that is much much more than just a relatively simple turbo swap, like the RB turbos are for the N54.
Ah, I see, that's why I'm asking you guys, the subject matter experts!
I will admit I knew the N54 would be much easier but I thought it had more to do with software than simply bolt on upgrades. The engine tuning is the aspect I have researched the least about this car.
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      02-14-2013, 02:45 PM   #9
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There is a wealth of information on the subject here and over on N54tech.com (a JB4 specific forum) about the potential gains of tuning and aftermarket parts. Terry of Burger Tuning is incredibly helpful and responsive to emails and posts on his forum (usually a reply within MINUTES via email). He makes a great product and is continuing to improve it.

Cobb also makes a really nice product in the Access Port with a lot of features built in (logging, map switching, diagnostics, and user-tuning).

There is no one-is-better-than-the-other at this point as both have their advantages and disadvantages. Its all user preference really.
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      02-15-2013, 07:49 AM   #10
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Thanks for the help b1aze. Looks as if the car I pointed out has already sold, the owner just hasn't picked it up yet. Disappointing, back to the waiting game for me.
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      02-15-2013, 08:05 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MLSavage
Thanks for the help b1aze. Looks as if the car I pointed out has already sold, the owner just hasn't picked it up yet. Disappointing, back to the waiting game for me.
Lots of the '10s should be coming off lease soon. Just wait and you should get a great price on one if you do want the N54. Don't compromise or settle on something that you don't actually want. You'll kick yourself later.
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      02-15-2013, 09:42 AM   #12
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Indeed.

Another question, this one pertaining to iDrive. What are your thoughts? I would almost never use the navigation, is there anything else useful about the iDrive that makes it a very nice to have?
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      02-15-2013, 10:17 AM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MLSavage View Post
Indeed.

Another question, this one pertaining to iDrive. What are your thoughts? I would almost never use the navigation, is there anything else useful about the iDrive that makes it a very nice to have?
I have an '08 with idrive. The '08 idrive system is apparently terrible when compared to 09+. I still like it a lot. I don't use it for navigation at all. If for nothing else it is nice for navigating music on your ipod and for displaying what is playing. It also makes accessing/changing the the various configs and settings nice and easy. Same with viewing/scrolling through your phone's contact list to make a phone call.

Comfort Access is also something that may seem frivolous or useless to those who do not have it, but I would seriously miss it if it were gone. there is something to be said for never having to take your keys out of your pocket.
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      02-15-2013, 10:41 AM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by foghat View Post
I have an '08 with idrive. The '08 idrive system is apparently terrible when compared to 09+. I still like it a lot. I don't use it for navigation at all. If for nothing else it is nice for navigating music on your ipod and for displaying what is playing. It also makes accessing/changing the the various configs and settings nice and easy. Same with viewing/scrolling through your phone's contact list to make a phone call.

Comfort Access is also something that may seem frivolous or useless to those who do not have it, but I would seriously miss it if it were gone. there is something to be said for never having to take your keys out of your pocket.
Good to know, I would definitely benefit from easier access to my music.
With that input iDrive has moved from I don't want it at all to I'll definitely take it. I was previously putting the cars with Nav at the bottom of my list, however the list is so short now the only remaining car has iDrive. Looks to be a welcomed feature. However, after reading the FAQs it seems it is a bit finicky on usability.
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      02-15-2013, 10:48 AM   #15
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I would think if you are buying used, an idrive car wouldn't be much more than a comparable non-idrive car. I don't know if I would not buy a car because it didn't have idrive, but I certainly wouldn't say no to an idrive vehicle.
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      02-15-2013, 10:52 AM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by foghat View Post
I would think if you are buying used, an idrive car wouldn't be much more than a comparable non-idrive car. I don't know if I would not buy a car because it didn't have idrive, but I certainly wouldn't say no to an idrive vehicle.
Exactly, that's my thought process.

I can also use the fact that I'm not in need of iDrive in negotiations, however little that may help me.
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      02-15-2013, 05:03 PM   #17
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Hey guys, I'm hoping you can help me with my break problem on my current 2002 325i.
http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...4#post13487604
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      02-15-2013, 06:00 PM   #18
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I been way to busy this week but I finally had a chance to post in your thread. MLSavage, you know how to research my friend. +1 interwebs for you
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