BMW managed to shrink-wrap the 135i around their award-winning dual-turbo 3.0-litre DOHC I-6 engine. This blazing powerplant produces 300 horsepower @ 5,800 rpm and 300 pound-feet of torque @ only 1,400 rpm. Best of all, the broad torque curve remains flat throughout a run to the beast's 7,000 rpm redline.
When this engine was first sampled in the 335i, it blew me away. Placing the same potency in the diminutive 1-Series Bimmer transforms BMW's wee entrant in the sports-luxury class into a force to be feared and respected. The heady performance from this turbine-smooth mill is simply outstanding.
It's capable of pushing the svelte German-built 135i from zero to 100-Km/h in less than 5-seconds. Along the way, it emits a howl to be cherished. More importantly, the immensity of low-end torque provides exceptional driveability, reducing the need to palm the 6-speed manual stick. But why would you want to limit that pleasure?
The short-throw 6-speed gearbox connecting the 135i's turbo'd gem to the rear wheels is joyous to operate for those still preferring the fine art of manual shifting over tapping a couple of wannabe paddles. BMW's manual stick enthralls with precise gate-to-gate movement and clutch take-up that's light and progressive.
Should the presence of a clutch invite consternation, a 6-speed autobox is available.
Stunning handling doesn't punish occupants
The 3-Series BMW is often cited as the benchmark in sedan handling prowess, and justifiably so. Strip away some of its size and bulk, and you have it- the ultra agile 1-Series. When the 135i is chosen over the slightly more sedate 128i, a sport suspension package accompanies the twin turbochargers, 18-inch performance rubber and body tuning.
The handling characteristics of the 135i Cabriolet must be experienced to be properly appreciated. This car delivers massive road-holding ability in the corners while always feeling deeply planted, predictable and secure. It would take a proper racetrack to explore the outer reaches of its tenacity. Suffice to say the 135i Cabriolet reacts to steering inputs with lightening speed and military precision.
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| BMW managed to shrink-wrap the 135i around their award-winning dual-turbo 3.0-litre DOHC I-6 engine. |
When this engine was first sampled in the 335i, it blew me away. Placing the same potency in the diminutive 1-Series Bimmer transforms BMW's wee entrant in the sports-luxury class into a force to be feared and respected. The heady performance from this turbine-smooth mill is simply outstanding.
It's capable of pushing the svelte German-built 135i from zero to 100-Km/h in less than 5-seconds. Along the way, it emits a howl to be cherished. More importantly, the immensity of low-end torque provides exceptional driveability, reducing the need to palm the 6-speed manual stick. But why would you want to limit that pleasure?
The short-throw 6-speed gearbox connecting the 135i's turbo'd gem to the rear wheels is joyous to operate for those still preferring the fine art of manual shifting over tapping a couple of wannabe paddles. BMW's manual stick enthralls with precise gate-to-gate movement and clutch take-up that's light and progressive.
Should the presence of a clutch invite consternation, a 6-speed autobox is available.
Stunning handling doesn't punish occupants
The 3-Series BMW is often cited as the benchmark in sedan handling prowess, and justifiably so. Strip away some of its size and bulk, and you have it- the ultra agile 1-Series. When the 135i is chosen over the slightly more sedate 128i, a sport suspension package accompanies the twin turbochargers, 18-inch performance rubber and body tuning.
The handling characteristics of the 135i Cabriolet must be experienced to be properly appreciated. This car delivers massive road-holding ability in the corners while always feeling deeply planted, predictable and secure. It would take a proper racetrack to explore the outer reaches of its tenacity. Suffice to say the 135i Cabriolet reacts to steering inputs with lightening speed and military precision.
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| The short-throw 6-speed gearbox connecting the 135i's turbo'd gem to the rear wheels is joyous to operate. |