[ExMX5]

Ptack is exactly right - most negative press is from "crusty" journos who just want a modern redux of an old car they have great memories of (there's nothing wrong with reminiscing - but design philosophy has changed a lot since the 90's). Also, most of the comments seem to be asking for an elise or cayman with more plush seats - nevermind the fact that that's what the 1er actually is.

Maybe the author should have a look at the market and try to find something equivalent to the 1 in the price range.

More sporty (Lotus/Boxster - I'm in Aus) and you lose all pretense of practicality and comfort, cheaper (350z/RX8) and you lose all the refinement and are still, ultimately, lower in the performance foodchain.

It's not until you whip out 30% more for a cayman (again: in Aus) that you start getting more in the package and it still compromises on comfort and practicality.

JC says it right in that, for the cost, there's just nothing else like it.