1 vs 2 series

[olds350]

Reaching out and asking anyone that has the experience of driving both the 1 and 2 series. Contemplating over the next few months upgrading my '12 128 vert to a m235 vert. Aside from the fact the m235 has more power, what are the general concerns about the newer 2? I am not considering the 230, read too many complaints about the numb steering and timing chain failures. I can't afford a new m240 or M2, so setting my sights on the '14-'16 m235.

From what I've read in regard to online reviews and the 2addicts forum threads, the m235 seems to be a pretty rock solid car even with the turbos. I have to admit I'm an old school guy and turbos are something I've never messed with, but it seems they are the way of the future. There's not much in the way of getting around them considering most anything sold today is turbo related in someway.

For those of you that have been able to drive both, what are your thoughts? I'm concerned with steering wheel feel and general overall impression of the 2. Would appreciate any comments you have.

[Matticus91]

Wrote a thread on this a while back after doing some drives:

https://www.1addicts.com/forums/show...highlight=235i

[captain slowly]

My experience is with driving the M240i, but close enough. In short, more refined than the 1, steering feel is very light unless in sport+, but even then, it feels closer to a camry than a bmw. For some that matters, to some less so. Also, the B58 in the 240i (you'd be getting the N55 in the 235) feels much stronger then the numbers suggest. Overall, I think you'll be happy with the 235i

[olds350]

thank you for the info to date, very much appreciated...

[Tuxedo]

I have driven M235/M240 and own a e88, basically 17' newer the steering is better then 15-16'. however it feels to me like a oversized assisted steering like that of a 1ton dually. 2 is better looking and feels more luxury and refined, faster, better sport luxury blend with modern techs built in. 1'r is a bit dowdy but more of an enthusiasts car way more fun to drive imo at least in a NA 3.0 MT M-sport. 1'r feels to me will be a forgotten car much like the BMW 1600/1800 convertibles for the memorable 2002 of late 60's and 70's. 1M being the exception.

[The Wind Breezes]

If you want a newer looking car get the 2.

If you want a badass better car that also looks better, get a 135i.

[c1pher]

I’m convinced the 135i/is is the better car. M235/240i is nice and equally fast but more of a cruising type car and leaves you wanting. It kind of loses its soul. Which is kind of odd since they essentially use the same motor. It’s the other parts that let the car down. I really do like the front of the 2 series better though.

A similar comparison would be a Honda vs a Ducati. Both are competent. The Honda is like riding a sewing machine. The Ducati is sexy, smooth and can provide a visceral experience. If you’ve ridden a Duc you know what I’m talking about which is why I own two and wish I had another two lol.

[champignon]

I'd probably get a VW Golf R rather than a 235i. The steering is unremarkable on both cars, but unless all you care about is the power, the Golf R offers way more practicality, an equivalent interior, AWD, and way more bang for the buck. You could even consider a GTi, which would save a ton of money, and the power would be more than adequate.

The only current BMW that I would consider, especially for a smallish car, would be the M2, which is expensive and doesn't sound to be like what you are looking for.

[olds350]

Originally Posted by champignon

I'd probably get a VW Golf R rather than a 235i. The steering is unremarkable on both cars, but unless all you care about is the power, the Golf R offers way more practicality, an equivalent interior, AWD, and way more bang for the buck. You could even consider a GTi, which would save a ton of money, and the power would be more than adequate.

The only current BMW that I would consider, especially for a smallish car, would be the M2, which is expensive and doesn't sound to be like what you are looking for.

I'd want to get another convertible, so leaves both the R and the GTI out of the buying picture. I did go look at a new GTI, but I'd be forced into buying the S without the sunroof and that funky clark plaid interior. The SE and autobahn both require the sunroof and I don't fit with a helmet in the car. That was going to be a replacement for the mustang autox car.

[champignon]

Originally Posted by olds350

I'd want to get another convertible, so leaves both the R and the GTI out of the buying picture. I did go look at a new GTI, but I'd be forced into buying the S without the sunroof and that funky clark plaid interior. The SE and autobahn both require the sunroof and I don't fit with a helmet in the car. That was going to be a replacement for the mustang autox car.

Maybe find a low mileage, always garaged, latter year 135i convertible. Convertibles often are low mileage, 2nd or 3rd cars, and leaving them outdoors is not really an option. I bet you can get a really good deal with a little bit of looking. I really like my 135is convertible, which is not for sale :-)

[desertman123]

You are asking a 1 series forum. We'll tell you it's no driver's car while the 2 series guys will bitch about our basic interiors and crumbling materials

[swagon]

[Zombie_Head]

You are right in terms of reliability, numerous reputable shops on Nürburg recommended me to sell the E82 and get the M235i/M240i as a daily driver and occasional track car.

Maintenance, driver's position and running costs were always being brought up, consistently.

It is just how things work in life, newer models are more efficient, faster, "better" on paper.

No matter what anyone tells you, including myself, only YOU can judge the steering feel and general impressions.

Just because Chris Harris likes it, does not mean YOU will like it, and YOU are the one spending money on it.

Generally speaking the 2 series (even the M2) has been getting solid reviews from everyone. Only thing that bothers me the most is that fake noises being pumped through the speakers.

Take your time, think long and hard about it, consider how long you plan on keeping the car etc.

[olds350]

Originally Posted by Zombie_Head

You are right in terms of reliability, numerous reputable shops on Nürburg recommended me to sell the E82 and get the M235i/M240i as a daily driver and occasional track car.

Maintenance, driver's position and running costs were always being brought up, consistently.

It is just how things work in life, newer models are more efficient, faster, "better" on paper.

No matter what anyone tells you, including myself, only YOU can judge the steering feel and general impressions.

Just because Chris Harris likes it, does not mean YOU will like it, and YOU are the one spending money on it.

Generally speaking the 2 series (even the M2) has been getting solid reviews from everyone. Only thing that bothers me the most is that fake noises being pumped through the speakers.

Take your time, think long and hard about it, consider how long you plan on keeping the car etc.

I agree with your comments and I make the ultimate buying decision, but I'm trying to be informed via drivers that have driven both. In regard to driving an m235, none are available locally at any dealers at the moment. Just waiting for one to surface so I can take a test drive.

[rowsdower]

Originally Posted by Zombie_Head

You are right in terms of reliability, numerous reputable shops on Nürburg recommended me to sell the E82 and get the M235i/M240i as a daily driver and occasional track car.

Maintenance, driver's position and running costs were always being brought up, consistently.

It is just how things work in life, newer models are more efficient, faster, "better" on paper.

No matter what anyone tells you, including myself, only YOU can judge the steering feel and general impressions.

Just because Chris Harris likes it, does not mean YOU will like it, and YOU are the one spending money on it.

Generally speaking the 2 series (even the M2) has been getting solid reviews from everyone. Only thing that bothers me the most is that fake noises being pumped through the speakers.

Take your time, think long and hard about it, consider how long you plan on keeping the car etc.

I’m pretty sure our cars also play engine noise through the speakers.

[zx10guy]

Originally Posted by rowsdower

I’m pretty sure our cars also play engine noise through the speakers.

You'd be incorrect.

[10"]

Originally Posted by rowsdower

I’m pretty sure our cars also play engine noise through the speakers.

Lol no.

[swunder]

I can't even believe the engine noise through speakers is... a thing. I can't effectively exactly explain why its so bad/stupid/pathetic. Its all so fake, so non-enthusiast oriented, so... completely missing the entire point of not only BMW's but sports cars and driving in general for the last 100 years.

The fake noise and 500 M badges plastered all over the entire line of non M mxxx cars are just so blatantly targeted at kids and uninformed people that will think they are driving a real M2/3/4. It waters down the entire brand and M mystique/heritage.

Its all a shame too, because I'm sure the m235 and m240 are awesome cars but I'll just never get past the marketing bull**** ingrained into them.

I drive a 135is and am not happy with the M's everywhere - but its only getting worse as new models come out.

/rant

[champignon]

Originally Posted by Zombie_Head

You are right in terms of reliability, numerous reputable shops on Nürburg recommended me to sell the E82 and get the M235i/M240i as a daily driver and occasional track car.

Maintenance, driver's position and running costs were always being brought up, consistently.

It is just how things work in life, newer models are more efficient, faster, "better" on paper.

No matter what anyone tells you, including myself, only YOU can judge the steering feel and general impressions.

Just because Chris Harris likes it, does not mean YOU will like it, and YOU are the one spending money on it.

Generally speaking the 2 series (even the M2) has been getting solid reviews from everyone. Only thing that bothers me the most is that fake noises being pumped through the speakers.

Take your time, think long and hard about it, consider how long you plan on keeping the car etc.

Bottom line is that any BMW out of warranty is a wallet biopsy waiting to happen. No one should buy a BMW (as opposed to leasing one) without this basic understanding, especially if they intend to keep the car beyond the warranty period.

I don't think the question is whether the 2-Series is a competent car; it certainly is, for doing all the things that cars are required to do. If instead the question is whether the 2-Series still provides the driver-connected driving experience that BMW built its brand on, the answer might be completely different. For me, I'd concede the competency of the car, but I would not agree that it is fun to drive in the same way that a 2002, an old 325i, or a 1-Series is/was.

If one is to the point of only looking for a fast, truly modern, and competent car, BMW is not the only player in that space, and I would expand my search and look at other brands as well.

[jaye944]

funny that, mine plays "woop woop dat's the sound of da police, woop woop"

Originally Posted by rowsdower

I’m pretty sure our cars also play engine noise through the speakers.

[Zombie_Head]

Originally Posted by swunder

I can't even believe the engine noise through speakers is... a thing. I can't effectively exactly explain why its so bad/stupid/pathetic. Its all so fake, so non-enthusiast oriented, so... completely missing the entire point of not only BMW's but sports cars and driving in general for the last 100 years.

The fake noise and 500 M badges plastered all over the entire line of non M mxxx cars are just so blatantly targeted at kids and uninformed people that will think they are driving a real M2/3/4. It waters down the entire brand and M mystique/heritage.

Its all a shame too, because I'm sure the m235 and m240 are awesome cars but I'll just never get past the marketing bull**** ingrained into them.

I drive a 135is and am not happy with the M's everywhere - but its only getting worse as new models come out.

/rant

Did you know that after the M1 the car to receive M treatment was the M535i E28 of the late 70s?

Basically M has been doing this for a very long time, nothing new.

[rowsdower]

I thought I had read an article about fake 135i noises but it was about the M135i, not the 135i! My mistake.

https://www.jalopnik.com/5973177/thi...-by-a-computer