1 Series Cabrio

mjt · 12 May 2010 at 09:48

Tell me about the BMW E88.
I haven't really heard much about them, and afaik its only real rival is the A3 cabrio, which I'm not really interested in.
We'd be looking at the 4 cylinder models, ie. the 120i due to the archaic road tax system over here so I don't care about insurance costs or new price, etc.
I don't live in the UK, so anything to do with running costs are irrelevant, also because it's a lease car and we don't have to pay for anything.
I had a nosey around one yesterday and they seem quite nice, but obviously that's not worth anything until I've driven one.

What else is out there for the money?
I think the Mini Cooper S is too small, although it's much cheaper and faster, with a better spec for the price..

Looking at Housey's new MX-5 that seems like a fantastic car for a great price so that's certainly something else to consider.

The_Abyss · 12 May 2010 at 13:07

I consider it ugly on an almost epic scale.

ajstan · 12 May 2010 at 13:12

The 1series is one of my least favourite cars.

Participant · 12 May 2010 at 13:18

The Mini Cooper S is too small yet you're considering a MX-5?

rG-tom · 12 May 2010 at 13:35

1 series cab would be a strong contender if you were looking at a proper model ie 135i, but as you're not, get an mx5, much nicer car than a 4 pot 1 series IMO

mjt · 13 May 2010 at 12:36

Does anyone have any objective views on the 1 series convertible?
To be honest we're just looking for something different and I thought a small convertible would be nice. As it has to be brand new, there's not really a lot of choice at this price range though.

I suspect due to the resale value, the leasing price of an MX-5 will be more than for a 1 Series, which will probably only allow for the 1.8
It is quicker than a 120i but it's also less practical as it is a sports car.
However, practicality isn't really a concern seeing as I can't imagine ever having to use the rear seats in a 1. I suppose there's the argument of why compromise and just get the better car?
Is the 1.8 any good?

An MCS Cabrio could be worth a look too, but it's FWD..

OllyM · 13 May 2010 at 12:45

I don't think they are bad cars, even the 120i is 170hp and although it's not a silky smooth 6 cylinder it's still decent enough. If the dagdag noise doesn't bother you I think I'd rather go for a 120d over a 120i though.

mjt · 13 May 2010 at 12:53

The 120d is actually faster than the 120i, and it would probably be cheaper to lease too due to the resale value.
Whilst having a diesel cabrio would be quite depressing, the 4-pot petrol is hardly the most sonorous of engines.