The BMW 128i 0-60 makes the manufacturer proud of it since shows 6.1 seconds while it shows 5.7 for the coupe series. This was a part of the BMW 1 Series, which was also the successor to the iconic 2002 BMW coupe. Produced within the 2008 to 2013 time period, the BMW 1 Series convertible and coupe were meant to suggest the similar passion that the 2002 BMW did. For those years, 1 Series were the company’s entry level model delivering true BMW performance at an affordable price. On the used-car market, the 1 Series has much of its original impression today, allowing it as one of the best values.
The BMW 1 Series were first introduced for the 2008 model year. It was available as a 2-door coupe or a convertible which fabric roof is power operated, folding underneath the hard tonneau cover. Even though the rear-wheel-drive 1 Series made the least expensive model at the time for BMW, there was no shortage of quality and performance under the hood. With the 128i model there was a 3.0L inline-6 generating 230 horsepower. There was also the more powerful 135i model with turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 producing 300 horsepower and even greater-output version of turbo-6 with 320 horsepower of total output.
The base 128i included standard features such as the 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10-speaker sound system, and premium upholstery made from vinyl. However, some of features made standard in the higher 135i models were also available for the 128i. In general, all of BMW 1 Series models offered a horde of luxurious options that are familiar from other pricier lineups from BMW, including leather upholstery, sun-reflective surfaces for the convertible, keyless ignition and entry, premium, audio, and iDrive infotainment system.
Even though BMW 135i was updated with an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission aka DCT, the 128i remained intact with its standard 6-speed automatic transmission. A few powertrain changes, however, were occurring during the run. The most notable change was probably the use of single turbo for 2011 to 2013 model year for 135i and 135is, replacing the less fuel-efficient twin turbo engine.
The turbo engine was indeed incredibly versatile, in addition to an intense slug of acceleration and power offered with hardly any lag. However, the 128i’s non-turbo inline-6 seemed to be the most-overlooked powertrain. The powertrain was capable of delivering potent and smooth thrust in a classic BMW fashion. The inline-6, though, marked the end of an era since the replacement for BMW 128i 0-60, the 228i, employed a turbo 4-cylinder under the hood.