BMW 130i | Spotted
The days of small six-cylinder BMWs are done - nothing to stop you reliving them, though
If you're not over it, then you're not alone; the BMW 1 Series has not only ditched rear-wheel drive, its six-cylinder USP has gone as well. The practical reasons for the move are numerous and eminently sensible, but that doesn't make the decision any less lamentable for enthusiasts. Because in a market saturated by quite ordinary, transverse-engined, front-drive rivals, the 1 Series always seemed that bit more exotic - that bit more BMW.
And while the 1 Series didn't always deliver on the dynamic promise of its layout, there remains something intriguing about its flagship six-cylinder models. The M135i and M140i of recent years are the most obvious examples of the breed, and miles more successful than any previous versions, though arguably the template extends right the way back to the 325ti Compact of the early 2000s: big straight-six up front, short wheelbase, slightly odd styling and rear-wheel drive.
The chosen exponent of the formula for this Spotted is an E81 130i, using the N52 3.0-litre engine. Launched in 2005, the 130i was the 265hp top of the hatchback range throughout the 1 Series' life - the Coupe and Convertible later getting the 135i version with the turbocharged N54. It was a car received well in the UK, building on what was liked about the standard 1 Series with the muscle of a big engine. That was dependent on spec, however; BMW's obsession with dynamic options was well underway by this point, and concerns were raised about sports suspension and active steering.
This 130i is notable for being an M Sport Limited Edition car, of which just 160 were produced for the UK. They were distinguished by unique BMW Motorsport wheels, a bodykit, sports seats, an M Sport wheel and lemon coloured leather that doesn't look half as awful as it sounds. With a £3,915 premium over a standard 130i M Sport, it cost £30,270 in 2007.
Which, being honest, looks like a lot of money, given the M135i launched five years later with a chunk more power at £30k. Anyway, now those cars are a lot less than that, this 130i M Sport LE for sale at £6,995. Given the car's status - most would surely have been content with a regular 130i, meaning the LE was there for the truly dedicated - you would have to hope an enthusiast (or four) has cherished this car since new. The condition would appear to back that up: the wheels are unkerbed, the paint's shine still lustrous, the lemon leather still... lemony. The service history is said to be full, provided by BMW and specialists.
Surely, too, this era of 1 Series will only become more desirable with knowledge of there being no more. Because for those that like the idea, there's nothing else like it: an S3 is perfectly worthy, but features only a bland four-cylinder turbo and Haldex all-wheel drive. A Golf R32 at least upgrades that package with VW's honking V6, but you'll pay as much money as this 1 Series for an R32 with another 30,000 miles. And a Volvo C30 T5 would be an interesting alternative, though addled with forced induction and front-wheel drive.
So there you are: the masses will surely appreciate a 1 Series of greater practicality and efficiency, but these originals will hold a special place in the hearts of a few. If you count yourself amongst the latter, this 130i looks a gem.
SPECIFICATION - BMW 130I
Engine: 2,996cc, straight-six
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 265@6,650rpm
Torque (lb ft): 232@2,750rpm
MPG: 34
CO2: 197g/km
First registered: 2007
Recorded mileage: 87,000
Price new: £30,270
Yours for: £6,995
But I've also had a Z4 Coupe since 2014 with the same N52 3 litre engine, and it's a great power-plant!
When I decided to replace my Compact last year I just missed out on a Japan Red 130i less than 10 miles away, and as it was supposed to be my practical car I ended up with an E91 325i with the smaller version of the N52.
But to be honest I was disappointed with it, so this year I replaced it with an E90 330i (also N52 3 litre) and in a Man Maths sort of way justified it because it has the rare split/fold rear seats!
While the 130iLEs are fully loaded, I wouldn't want one because they all have 3 doors - and when you want to drop the rear seats you have to scrabble about in the rear footwell while dropping the rear head-rests. Which is one of the things I found a PITA with my Compact!
Plus the LEs have electric PAS, whereas earlier ones have hydraulic PAS which is so much better IMHO. (The HPAS on my 330i is way better than the EPAS on my Z4).
The only problem is all 130i prices seem to be holding up well - which is why I bought my 330i.
I would say 130is are great, but I'd rather they got cheaper!
The suspension is staying to show signs that it needs a refresh at 90k, but apart front that it’s been pretty good.
I’m unsure what to replace it with apart from a 987 Cayman... which is now out the window with the arrival of my second son this week.
Great little cars!
https://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/x/x/x/x/77...
But there are a fair few about and often one up for sale somewhere in UK
But in this package (and its 135i/140i cousins) what a great driver’s car! I’ve only driven one briefly (130i) but what a lovely smooth engine, decent gearbox and predictable, sure-footed handling. It really is a nice drive, and the one in the ad looks to be a good example.
Good news is that you can put lots of M3 bits in, put in an LSD and then they truly handle! Had mine for 4,5 years albeit with the 2l twinturbo compression ignition engine that used the identical platform. Maybe should have changed car to this engine and just kept it as it's not getting much better...
Anyway, I always quite liked this gen of 130i. A friend has one and it's a nice car. I actually prefer it to the M135i/140i in a way. It's a proper small-ish car with big engine. Adding turbocharging seemed to corrupt that somehow, despite the increase in pace. The styling of the original 1-Series is slightly better resolved than the later cars in my view as well.
Always been a fan of the 130i with its silky smooth N52 engine and relative compact dimensions, I've never warmed to its looks though but much like my Mini you can't see it when you're driving/enjoying it.
I had a 330i with the n52. It has to be one of the best engines I have ever used, it’s good at everything ( expect oil consumption. 1L per 800ish miles is apparently “within tolerance”).
Never driven the 130i, but with a Manual box and a smaller body, I bet it’s a laugh.
The one issue with them is they tend to drain your wallet in mods mine now has a 135i backbox for more noise and E92 M3 lower control arms for a sharper turn-in. You can go further with suspension and an LSD but that starts getting very expensive. Oh, and if you buy one, the first thing you must do is bin the run-flats (if the previous owner hasn't done so already - most have).
Also, the N52 - what an engine.
The 125i has exactly the same engine as the 130i, just detuned from the factory, but speak to a friendly chap with a laptop and it is easily put back up above 130i levels (280bhp is quite common). I've had this done to mine and it is properly quick now - as in incredibly close to an M140i quick. Other main mod I did was to take the fking runflats off and replace them with a set of PS4's. Night and day difference, and I personally now find it to be a great steer. Can feel a touch ragged over the bumps, but that just adds to the fun for me.
I'm probably biased but I even love the styling - of the Coupé anyway. Not sure I'd call it pretty, more imposing for a little car.
It may have to get replaced later in the year depending upon it staying reliable, and grown up stuff like carting friends around and playing golf means I'll probably have to look at a 3 or 4 Series next - but I'm seriously tempted to keep the 1'er to run alongside. In fact if I didn't need the space, I'd be tempted to find a 2013 example and run that instead.
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