Quote:
Originally Posted by Newtobimmers
@ Artmasterx thanks for the reply!
Ah... so its seems that the 128i is much reliable than the 135i. But the new 135i has the N54 engine instead of the N55, right?
Thanks for the advice about the run-flats. Are they standard in the 128i? Do they tend to die faster than non-runflat tires?
I get the 17" Wheel A/S style 262 but If I choose the M package, I get the 17" M wheel, perf RFT style 207M. Are the Michelin Pilot sport PS2 better than these?
Thanks!
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The 135i has had the N54 engine in the past, but I think the new ones (starting in 2011?) have the N55. I can't say if the HPFP issues have been sorted out in the N55 or not. The 135i engine if just more complicated, so there will be a greater likelihood of problems. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that it would be a bad choice. Turbocharged engines generally need to be maintained more rigorously (in general) than a typical NA engine.
Run-flats are standard on pretty much all non-M BMWs and they no longer include spare tires in most cars. From a performance point of view, run flat tires are generally fine for everyday-use. The stock BMW ones also tend to have a low treadwear rating, so they wear out quickly. My problems with them are:
1. They are very expensive. One tire often runs $250 - 350 here in the US. I purchase some General Exclaim UHP tires to replace mine and they were excellent everyday tire and only cost $95 each, had better treadwear, better reviews, better hydroplane resistance, but probably a bit less dry traction.
2. They ride rough due to the stiff side walls and also tend to tramline more (follow ridges/grooves in the road). Some people say runflats offer sharper turn-in response due to the stiff side wall, which may be true, but will not be noticed by most.
3. If you hit a pothole, you have a higher probability of damaging your rim because the stiff side wall transmits more force to the rim.
4. Some places will not repair punctures in runflat tires (BMW will not, so they will try to sell you a new $300+ tire because of a nail hole). Some independent shops will.
5. Maybe run-flats have improved in the last 3 years, but generally they are a poor compromise. You trade a more comfortable ride, larger tire selection, and longer tread life for the ability to drive on the flat tire. In most situations, you would probably call for a tow anyway, so there is really limited benefit. Also, if you really have a blow-out, a runflat will rarely help because the tire comes off the rim anyway. You can even get a space-saver spare or a mobility kit (I bought the Continental one from Tirerack) to give more piece of mind.
A Michelin PS2 will be better than any stock BMW tire from a non-M car. PS2 have a short tread life, but are excellent tires. Whatever you end up doing, runflat or not, I would probably look at Tirerack to see what the best tires are. You can even get a PS2 runflat if you are willing to pay for it, and it would be a good tire except for the rougher ride.
You will enjoy the car regardless.