New BMW 1-Series. But Not For You.
Tuesday March 23, 2004
I have absolutely no patience with American auto execs who are reluctant to import wonderful European cars because they're supposedly too small or might spoil a brand image. The latest example of this nonsense comes from BMW North America, which will deny us the new BMW 1-Series (photo above). It enters the "compact executive" segment with a full-featured car sized just right for our crowded cities, and is unusual in this class for having a front engine and rear drive. The engines are all 4-cylinder units, ranging from 115 hp to a diesel with 160 hp and a massive 250 lb.-ft. of torque. The latter will do 137 mph and run from 0-60 in 8.7 seconds. Lightweight, quick, and practical, the 1-Series would be snapped up here, if only BMW North America had the courage.
Comments
I would love this car. I currently have a Subary Impreza Outback Sport and this 1 Series is the same style car but a huge step up! I would jump on an AWD version of the BMW 1 Series small wagon. Some day…
I would also jump on this–in a heartbeat! Why can’t we have it in the US?
I am pretty sure that they are indeed bringing this vehicle here late this year. I could be wrong on the body style, but there is a 2-door coupe and a hatchback in the 1-series. I am going to snatch one up in a hurry!
It also has a straight six available, the most harmonic engine design. I like it!
To think that a whole segment of cars does not exist in the States. 4 cylinder - rear wheel drive cars with seating for four. This may be our only hope. Dave B. Tucson
I’ll take a 1d any model please…
That kind of MPG, performance and handling plus they are burning cleaner than the gas versions…Seems like a no brainer…?