BMW lover looking for your thoughts

gtarwiz · 07-16-2013, 02:19 PM

Hey all,

While I am not new to BMW's, I will admit I am a noob when it comes to 1's but absolutely love the design, shape and size. I come from E30's and still have a 89 325iS that has been to hell and is slowly being brought back. I love it, but it's a tad bid (read: REALLY) rough around the edges and not so comfortable for long commutes. I have recently been looking for a new DD that I can put some miles on but that will still keep me entertained and engaged and still not break the bank.

I was specifically looking at used 128i's with at the very least manual and possibly sport package. I know that some of you are going to come in here saying that I should buy a 135i and while I do agree it is a fun car, turbo maintenance is not something that is high on my list of things to be repairing.

When looking for these cars and at these cars, are there things that I need to keep my eye out for? Any specific questions that need to be asked. How about maintenance items? I know BMW's are notorious for bad cooling issues especially with water pumps.

I am looking for anyone and everyone's input. I have done some research but hearing it first hand always makes it easier.

Anyway, thanks for looking!

angler · 07-16-2013, 02:40 PM

135 rules

hoki06 · 07-16-2013, 02:49 PM

Definitely get the sport package. I had a 135i loaner w/o sport package and the seats were not so good. I couldn't wait to get back into my 128i with seats that hugged me nicely.

gtarwiz · 07-16-2013, 03:01 PM

I will agree that the 135 is quite amazing. A friend of mine just picked one up with the DCT and it's a lot of fun. Besides, I have the E30 to have fun with :-D

tuco44 · 07-16-2013, 04:59 PM

135i with manual and MSport pkg and you're set for a fun time.

Grab it fast as the 1 Series is about done in it's present configuration.

JasonCSU · 07-16-2013, 05:14 PM

The 128 is a great car and like you already said, a manual and the sport package is a must on one.

gman36 · 07-16-2013, 05:23 PM

What's turbo Maintenence?

100k mile turbo warranty for a reason.

Badabing · 07-16-2013, 05:38 PM

I love my 128, it is a great dd. True that the 135 is much faster, I have driven several, but the 128 has a lot of zip for a na 6. The musts on my list are the sport package and the cold package (get a lot of snow and cold here). Good luck with your search, you will love it!

gtarwiz · 07-16-2013, 09:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gman36

What's turbo Maintenence?

100k mile turbo warranty for a reason.

Eh, I like NA anyway, lol. And maybe it's not specifically turbo maintenance but I have heard of the 135's ultimately having more issues than the 128. Maybe I'm wrong and I am not trying to start anything on what better.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Badabing

I love my 128, it is a great dd. True that the 135 is much faster, I have driven several, but the 128 has a lot of zip for a na 6. The musts on my list are the sport package and the cold package (get a lot of snow and cold here). Good luck with your search, you will love it!

I really liked how the 128 feels. it really felt like a more refined e36 m3 and I love the inline 6 NA.

Thanks for the responses!

lastMleft · 07-16-2013, 09:07 PM

The 128 is a nice car, buy one.

jester17 · 07-16-2013, 09:09 PM

I think for the $$$ difference, the 128 is a fine, fine car -- but when I crank that 135 each morning, well...

gtarwiz · 07-17-2013, 12:37 AM

Is there anything that I should be looking for when looking at used ones?

hoki06 · 07-17-2013, 10:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gtarwiz

I really liked how the 128 feels. it really felt like a more refined e36 m3 and I love the inline 6 NA.

That was my thought when I first drove my 128

MZWIE · 07-17-2013, 03:15 PM

There have been some issues with the waste gate. But in no way would this detract from a 135.

Stupenal · 07-17-2013, 05:31 PM

.

Dafttt · 07-17-2013, 06:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by e34m5

There have been some issues with the waste gate. But in no way would this detract from a 135.

Some? I don't think class action law suits and mandated extended warranties would result from some issues.

Waste gate rattle, HPFP failure, walnut blasting, and limp mode all kept me away from anything '35i related.

If you like the classic BMW feel, the 128i is the only modern option. Great car, you'll love it.

JimD · 07-18-2013, 06:59 AM

The 2008 and maybe early 2009 128is have the lifter issue. They make noise until pumped up. There was also a recall for the insulation around the seat belts and a few other things. The dealer should be able to check the key fob to see if it has had all the recalls done. There was also a tsb on the third brake light but no recall - something to check. My impression is that all this "stuff" got fixed at the factory on later 128s but I don't know the cutoffs. I have a 2009 vert with sport and I love it. Plenty fast (but I may do the 3 stage manifold and possibly headers, more is always nice) and sporty and comfortable.

Jim

gtarwiz · 07-19-2013, 07:24 PM

These are all great things to look out for!

Thanks for the comments!

Quote:

Another is the lifter tick - this was common on early n52s but mine has a slight tick that the dealer says is normal (yeah...right). Some people got new lifters and even new heads, but I got jack. Not a big deal, the noise is very low compared to some of the videos people have posted online.

You'll still need to replace the waterpump at some point, unfortunately they're electric (I think) and cost $300+ vs the $50-60 for the s52 e36 m3.

Honestly, I can deal with lifter tick unless it's really that bad for the engine. I am so used to the m20 sewing machine sound, everything else just sounds quite in comparison.

And I was curious about the water pump and thats good to know. I have already priced them out and have found them for about $300ish and have found write ups and seems pretty straight forward. More than likely be one of the first things I take care of.

gtarwiz · 08-09-2013, 02:29 PM

Just to let everyone know, I finally found the perfect one and picked it up last night.

Ended up getting a '10 128i M Sport.

I will post some pictures of it later when I get a chance.

lastMleft · 08-09-2013, 03:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gtarwiz

Just to let everyone know, I finally found the perfect one and picked it up last night.

Ended up getting a '10 128i M Sport.

I will post some pictures of it later when I get a chance.

Right on, enjoy, and yes post pics ASAP

JimD · 08-09-2013, 03:33 PM

Congratulations! If you ever feel you need more power, the n52 in the X5s was rated over 270hp - check out the engine threads in the technical section. For now, enjoy!

IEDEI · 08-09-2013, 03:53 PM

i think both cars are great. i really love the simplicity and lightness of the 128, and i like the power and speed of the 135.

to me, the 128i is the 'last real' BMW....so there is something very special about that. I am actually a bit worried that i will regret not getting the 128i at some point....because it is so 'pure' in many ways.

That being said....if you really want speed and performance, obviously the 135 is the way to go.

depends on one's priorities.

OOPS!! EDIT: just saw that you already bought one! CONGRATS!

07-16-2013, 02:19 PM	#1
gtarwiz New Member 6 Rep 19 Posts Drives: 1989 325iS 2010 128i MTech Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	BMW lover looking for your thoughts Hey all, While I am not new to BMW's, I will admit I am a noob when it comes to 1's but absolutely love the design, shape and size. I come from E30's and still have a 89 325iS that has been to hell and is slowly being brought back. I love it, but it's a tad bid (read: REALLY) rough around the edges and not so comfortable for long commutes. I have recently been looking for a new DD that I can put some miles on but that will still keep me entertained and engaged and still not break the bank. I was specifically looking at used 128i's with at the very least manual and possibly sport package. I know that some of you are going to come in here saying that I should buy a 135i and while I do agree it is a fun car, turbo maintenance is not something that is high on my list of things to be repairing. When looking for these cars and at these cars, are there things that I need to keep my eye out for? Any specific questions that need to be asked. How about maintenance items? I know BMW's are notorious for bad cooling issues especially with water pumps. I am looking for anyone and everyone's input. I have done some research but hearing it first hand always makes it easier. Anyway, thanks for looking!
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07-16-2013, 02:40 PM	#2
angler love to fish! 46 Rep 649 Posts Drives: 13: SG 135i M-Sport Cabrio 6mt Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: riding in the ultimate tanning machine iTrader: (1)	135 rules
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07-16-2013, 02:49 PM	#3
hoki06 Lieutenant 229 Rep 457 Posts Drives: 2010 BMW 128i Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: VA iTrader: (2)	Definitely get the sport package. I had a 135i loaner w/o sport package and the seats were not so good. I couldn't wait to get back into my 128i with seats that hugged me nicely.
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07-16-2013, 03:01 PM	#4
gtarwiz New Member 6 Rep 19 Posts Drives: 1989 325iS 2010 128i MTech Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	I will agree that the 135 is quite amazing. A friend of mine just picked one up with the DCT and it's a lot of fun. Besides, I have the E30 to have fun with :-D
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07-16-2013, 04:59 PM	#5
tuco44 Colonel 644 Rep 2,294 Posts Drives: 2018 340i xDrive M Perf Edtn Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Western Canada iTrader: (0)	135i with manual and MSport pkg and you're set for a fun time. Grab it fast as the 1 Series is about done in it's present configuration. __________________ 2018 340i xDrive M Perf Edtn Sunset Orange Previous BMWs - 19 others since 1971.
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07-16-2013, 05:14 PM	#6
JasonCSU Colonel 702 Rep 2,548 Posts Drives: '08 135i, '88 325is Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Denver, CO iTrader: (0) Garage List 1988 BMW 325is [0.00] 2008 BMW 135i [0.00]	The 128 is a great car and like you already said, a manual and the sport package is a must on one. __________________ Delivered in Munich, broken in on the Nurburgring.
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07-16-2013, 05:23 PM	#7
gman36 First Lieutenant 12 Rep 368 Posts Drives: BMW 135 Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Nevada iTrader: (3)	What's turbo Maintenence? 100k mile turbo warranty for a reason.
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07-16-2013, 05:38 PM	#8
Badabing Private First Class 7 Rep 146 Posts Drives: 2016 228xi Vert. Black on Blac Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Colorado iTrader: (0)	I love my 128, it is a great dd. True that the 135 is much faster, I have driven several, but the 128 has a lot of zip for a na 6. The musts on my list are the sport package and the cold package (get a lot of snow and cold here). Good luck with your search, you will love it!
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07-16-2013, 09:07 PM	#10
lastMleft Major 30 Rep 1,364 Posts Drives: e92 M3 Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Portland iTrader: (0)	The 128 is a nice car, buy one.
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07-16-2013, 09:09 PM	#11
jester17 First Lieutenant 50 Rep 323 Posts Drives: 2009 E93 M Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Elizabethtown, PA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 BMW M3 [0.00]	I think for the $$$ difference, the 128 is a fine, fine car -- but when I crank that 135 each morning, well...
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07-17-2013, 12:37 AM	#12
gtarwiz New Member 6 Rep 19 Posts Drives: 1989 325iS 2010 128i MTech Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	Is there anything that I should be looking for when looking at used ones?
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07-17-2013, 03:15 PM	#14
MZWIE Lieutenant Colonel 388 Rep 1,660 Posts Drives: M2 Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: GEORGIA iTrader: (0)	There have been some issues with the waste gate. But in no way would this detract from a 135.
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07-17-2013, 05:31 PM	#15
Stupenal First Lieutenant 43 Rep 347 Posts Drives: Mmm Join Date: May 2009 Location: Socal iTrader: (10)	. Last edited by Stupenal; 07-10-2014 at 12:37 AM..
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07-18-2013, 06:59 AM	#17
JimD Brigadier General 368 Rep 3,547 Posts Drives: 128i convertible Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Lexington, SC iTrader: (0)	The 2008 and maybe early 2009 128is have the lifter issue. They make noise until pumped up. There was also a recall for the insulation around the seat belts and a few other things. The dealer should be able to check the key fob to see if it has had all the recalls done. There was also a tsb on the third brake light but no recall - something to check. My impression is that all this "stuff" got fixed at the factory on later 128s but I don't know the cutoffs. I have a 2009 vert with sport and I love it. Plenty fast (but I may do the 3 stage manifold and possibly headers, more is always nice) and sporty and comfortable. Jim __________________ 128i Convertible, MT, Alpine White, Black Top, Taupe Leatherette, Walnut, Sport Ordered 5/22/09, Completed 6/4/09, At Port 6/9/09, On the Georgia Highway 6/13/09, Ship Arrived Charleston 6/24/09 at 10pm, PCD 7/21/09
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08-09-2013, 02:29 PM	#19
gtarwiz New Member 6 Rep 19 Posts Drives: 1989 325iS 2010 128i MTech Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	Just to let everyone know, I finally found the perfect one and picked it up last night. Ended up getting a '10 128i M Sport. I will post some pictures of it later when I get a chance.
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08-09-2013, 03:33 PM	#21
JimD Brigadier General 368 Rep 3,547 Posts Drives: 128i convertible Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Lexington, SC iTrader: (0)	Congratulations! If you ever feel you need more power, the n52 in the X5s was rated over 270hp - check out the engine threads in the technical section. For now, enjoy! __________________ 128i Convertible, MT, Alpine White, Black Top, Taupe Leatherette, Walnut, Sport Ordered 5/22/09, Completed 6/4/09, At Port 6/9/09, On the Georgia Highway 6/13/09, Ship Arrived Charleston 6/24/09 at 10pm, PCD 7/21/09
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08-09-2013, 03:53 PM	#22
IEDEI Banned 1130 Rep 4,686 Posts Drives: L'Orange Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Brooklyn, NYC iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 BMW 1M [8.40]	i think both cars are great. i really love the simplicity and lightness of the 128, and i like the power and speed of the 135. to me, the 128i is the 'last real' BMW....so there is something very special about that. I am actually a bit worried that i will regret not getting the 128i at some point....because it is so 'pure' in many ways. That being said....if you really want speed and performance, obviously the 135 is the way to go. depends on one's priorities. OOPS!! EDIT: just saw that you already bought one! CONGRATS!
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