BMW M140i B1 Dynamics package - ownership so far
Discussion
Always been active reader of gassing station and thought it was time to share my experience of the last 25k miles in my 140i.
|https://thumbsnap.com/O51YWE69[/url]
Brought it at 3k miles with the colour combo (black with oyster) I was after and all the following extras above standard spec:
-Comfort pack
-Harmon Kardon
-Pro nav
-Privacy glass
-Apple carplay (great for google maps/spotify)
..and a few more I can't remember!
I wanted a manual but after driving one, I didn't like the notchy shift or the clutch. So went in blind and brought an auto - within 5 minutes of driving it there was no regret! Shifts up at ~1300rpm tootling around and gives nice sharp changes in sport +.
First thing I done was install some security goodies to the car and get it coated with Gyeon Mohs+
My first 7k miles in the car were in the autumn/winter in which I was stonked by the engine. Theres a reason people rave about the B58 engine and it really is a peach. Nearly 400ft/lbs of torque from around 2-5k rpm/happy to be revved out and a sublime 8-speed box to match. But I found the lack of traction / surefooted-ness a little frustrating.
I took the car to Breacon beacons (south wales) for the day and it was good, but really enjoyed it but lacked composure above 7/10th's. Firm/brittle suspension and lack of lsd was the issue for me/as many have already mentioned.
Months and months of contemplation of what to upgrade (lowering springs, coilovers etc) - I decided to bite the bullet and invest in the B1 dynamics pack from Birds BMW which includes their bespoke tuned bilstein dampers & springs from eibach + quaife LSD. (I actually went to them to fit the diff, but after going out in their demo car, I was convinced how much the suspension changed the car and went for that too).
I could have gone for a cheaper set up, but the cars a long term keeper and therefore I justified it to myself (man maths and all that!).
So, the car was transformational! You an read more about this dynamics pack in this evo review:
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m240i/fir...
I went back to North Wales a week later and car could be pushed to 9/10th's + and the car felt more than competent to deal with it all. The diff transforms the way the car comes out of corners and the suspension just absorbs bumps so well!
A few thousand miles later I took the car to PCW mods to modify the stock exhaust, compared to the MPE it sounds much better in IMO and it retains the valve unlike the MPE.
Running costs have been reasonable, tax is £140 a year, service pack for 3 years was £299, it does 40mpg at 75-80mph (I do a lot of motorway so this is important)
Average mpg over the last 25k miles - 29.6mpg
Furthermore, I've just fitted some new OEM front pads at 28k miles which cost £60. The car will soon get an interim oil change (preventative maintenance) as the intervals are otherwise every 18k miles otherwise!
As a hatch, it also means I can get everything in boot with the seats down...including mountain bikes, concrete, tiles..the list goes on;) This is a huge plus for me.
I've been on a number of enthusiastic drives around the UK and just wanted to reinforce that the car just so planted and compliant over bumpy country roads. It can now put its power down properly. ..It's no M-car but still a great all rounder.
Only niggle I have is the gearbox whines a bit when pressing on hard which you can hear at lower speeds..apparently this is normal and has never resulted in any sort of failure from the gearbox, so my local dealer won't replace it. If anyone knows of a dealership that would be willing to look after me regarding this issue, please let me know!
Thanks for reading! Some pictures of the last 25k miles with the workhorse..
[url][url]
|https://thumbsnap.com/O51YWE69[/url]Brought it at 3k miles with the colour combo (black with oyster) I was after and all the following extras above standard spec:
-Comfort pack
-Harmon Kardon
-Pro nav
-Privacy glass
-Apple carplay (great for google maps/spotify)
..and a few more I can't remember!
I wanted a manual but after driving one, I didn't like the notchy shift or the clutch. So went in blind and brought an auto - within 5 minutes of driving it there was no regret! Shifts up at ~1300rpm tootling around and gives nice sharp changes in sport +.
First thing I done was install some security goodies to the car and get it coated with Gyeon Mohs+
My first 7k miles in the car were in the autumn/winter in which I was stonked by the engine. Theres a reason people rave about the B58 engine and it really is a peach. Nearly 400ft/lbs of torque from around 2-5k rpm/happy to be revved out and a sublime 8-speed box to match. But I found the lack of traction / surefooted-ness a little frustrating.
I took the car to Breacon beacons (south wales) for the day and it was good, but really enjoyed it but lacked composure above 7/10th's. Firm/brittle suspension and lack of lsd was the issue for me/as many have already mentioned.
Months and months of contemplation of what to upgrade (lowering springs, coilovers etc) - I decided to bite the bullet and invest in the B1 dynamics pack from Birds BMW which includes their bespoke tuned bilstein dampers & springs from eibach + quaife LSD. (I actually went to them to fit the diff, but after going out in their demo car, I was convinced how much the suspension changed the car and went for that too).
I could have gone for a cheaper set up, but the cars a long term keeper and therefore I justified it to myself (man maths and all that!).
So, the car was transformational! You an read more about this dynamics pack in this evo review:
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m240i/fir...
I went back to North Wales a week later and car could be pushed to 9/10th's + and the car felt more than competent to deal with it all. The diff transforms the way the car comes out of corners and the suspension just absorbs bumps so well!
A few thousand miles later I took the car to PCW mods to modify the stock exhaust, compared to the MPE it sounds much better in IMO and it retains the valve unlike the MPE.
Running costs have been reasonable, tax is £140 a year, service pack for 3 years was £299, it does 40mpg at 75-80mph (I do a lot of motorway so this is important)
Average mpg over the last 25k miles - 29.6mpg
Furthermore, I've just fitted some new OEM front pads at 28k miles which cost £60. The car will soon get an interim oil change (preventative maintenance) as the intervals are otherwise every 18k miles otherwise!
As a hatch, it also means I can get everything in boot with the seats down...including mountain bikes, concrete, tiles..the list goes on;) This is a huge plus for me.
I've been on a number of enthusiastic drives around the UK and just wanted to reinforce that the car just so planted and compliant over bumpy country roads. It can now put its power down properly. ..It's no M-car but still a great all rounder.
Only niggle I have is the gearbox whines a bit when pressing on hard which you can hear at lower speeds..apparently this is normal and has never resulted in any sort of failure from the gearbox, so my local dealer won't replace it. If anyone knows of a dealership that would be willing to look after me regarding this issue, please let me know!
Thanks for reading! Some pictures of the last 25k miles with the workhorse..
[url][url]Great to hear such glowing feedback on the B1 kit. My M140i is just shy of a year off the warranty expiry and my biggest issues with the car have been the lack of composure on challenging road surfaces (and of course the lack of LSD). I'm likely to rectify the latter with the M Performance diff, but have already started exploring options for suspension upgrades once the warranty is over. I'd been leaning heavily towards Street Comforts based on the adjustability but your praise for the Bird's setup has me rethinking that.
The biggest challenge I've had is getting to actually experience the different suspension options. Did you choose the Birds setup blind, or have the chance to drive (or at least ride in) a B1 kitted car beforehand?
The biggest challenge I've had is getting to actually experience the different suspension options. Did you choose the Birds setup blind, or have the chance to drive (or at least ride in) a B1 kitted car beforehand?
Good, stuff. Is that a picture of it parked up at Cannock Chase? Mine will have bikes chucked in regularly.
I’ve just ordered my M140 which I get in June. Much the same as you, I wanted something reasonably swift without crazy running costs.
I had one on an extended test drive last year and was surprised at how softly sprung it seemed given the performance on tap. Traction as certainly an issue with a lead foot even on perfectly dry roads. That certainly got me thinking about tweaking the suspension set up. I as thinking about trying done better springs to start with (probably Eibachs or maybe the M Performance jobbie if they’re not crazy expensive).
I’ve just ordered my M140 which I get in June. Much the same as you, I wanted something reasonably swift without crazy running costs.
I had one on an extended test drive last year and was surprised at how softly sprung it seemed given the performance on tap. Traction as certainly an issue with a lead foot even on perfectly dry roads. That certainly got me thinking about tweaking the suspension set up. I as thinking about trying done better springs to start with (probably Eibachs or maybe the M Performance jobbie if they’re not crazy expensive).
Good to read a review that's not sponsored. I've been debating the birds suspension or bilstein b12 kit for a while, as the standard car just doesn't deliver on a B road. It's far from the "weapon" people seem to think it is. As most of my driving is motorway commute, I've resisted the suspension so far but I want to get it sorted soon.
My main question on the suspension is how was the low speed (30ish mph) comfort impacted? I've read conflicting comments, with some saying it's a bit harsher than standard, while others say its improved.
My main question on the suspension is how was the low speed (30ish mph) comfort impacted? I've read conflicting comments, with some saying it's a bit harsher than standard, while others say its improved.
JackReacher said:
Good to read a review that's not sponsored. I've been debating the birds suspension or bilstein b12 kit for a while, as the standard car just doesn't deliver on a B road. It's far from the "weapon" people seem to think it is. As most of my driving is motorway commute, I've resisted the suspension so far but I want to get it sorted soon.
My main question on the suspension is how was the low speed (30ish mph) comfort impacted? I've read conflicting comments, with some saying it's a bit harsher than standard, while others say its improved.
Low speed ride is still borderline harsh if I'm honest but absorbs larger bumps and potholes well (which is the biggest difference at low speed against the standard passive suspension which was crashy), but as you go above 30-40mph it turns into good quality compliance. My main question on the suspension is how was the low speed (30ish mph) comfort impacted? I've read conflicting comments, with some saying it's a bit harsher than standard, while others say its improved.
Above 7/10th's it just soaks up the roads so well.
Yep its cannock chase!
I've heard the street comforts are really good, when you speak to Kevin Bird you get an idea as to how much R&D went into developing the suspension by experts for our crap roads rather than an off the shelf suspension kit. Kevin's point of view is that the kit should be perfect out of the box, not something that can readily adjusted by anyone. I more or less agree with that after having the set up, it feel just right albeit low speed ride which could be 20-30% better but the rest of the time makes up for it!
I've had good quality adjustable coilovers on my previous car which I thought were amazing at the time, but these are definitely in a different league.
Disadvantage (to some) might be the fact the ride height is only slightly lower than stock, some people would like to adjust how much 'drop' they want - but in lowering the car further you're likely to degrade the ride as you're taking away suspension travel.
HM-2 said:
Great to hear such glowing feedback on the B1 kit. My M140i is just shy of a year off the warranty expiry and my biggest issues with the car have been the lack of composure on challenging road surfaces (and of course the lack of LSD). I'm likely to rectify the latter with the M Performance diff, but have already started exploring options for suspension upgrades once the warranty is over. I'd been leaning heavily towards Street Comforts based on the adjustability but your praise for the Bird's setup has me rethinking that.
The biggest challenge I've had is getting to actually experience the different suspension options. Did you choose the Birds setup blind, or have the chance to drive (or at least ride in) a B1 kitted car beforehand?
After going out as a passenger in their demo car, I was convinced it was the right the decision. The biggest challenge I've had is getting to actually experience the different suspension options. Did you choose the Birds setup blind, or have the chance to drive (or at least ride in) a B1 kitted car beforehand?
I've heard the street comforts are really good, when you speak to Kevin Bird you get an idea as to how much R&D went into developing the suspension by experts for our crap roads rather than an off the shelf suspension kit. Kevin's point of view is that the kit should be perfect out of the box, not something that can readily adjusted by anyone. I more or less agree with that after having the set up, it feel just right albeit low speed ride which could be 20-30% better but the rest of the time makes up for it!
I've had good quality adjustable coilovers on my previous car which I thought were amazing at the time, but these are definitely in a different league.
Disadvantage (to some) might be the fact the ride height is only slightly lower than stock, some people would like to adjust how much 'drop' they want - but in lowering the car further you're likely to degrade the ride as you're taking away suspension travel.
Edited by J51dhu on Friday 5th April 22:09
HM-2 said:
Out of interest, what exhaust modifications did you have done in lieu of the M Performance Exhaust? I've been considering the latter but still not totally sold on it.
I went to Paul at PCW, happy with it tbh and retains the valve.Its louder than an M Performance exhuast though
J51dhu said:
HM-2 said:
Out of interest, what exhaust modifications did you have done in lieu of the M Performance Exhaust? I've been considering the latter but still not totally sold on it.
I went to Paul at PCW, happy with it tbh and retains the valve.Its louder than an M Performance exhuast though
HM-2 said:
J51dhu said:
HM-2 said:
Out of interest, what exhaust modifications did you have done in lieu of the M Performance Exhaust? I've been considering the latter but still not totally sold on it.
I went to Paul at PCW, happy with it tbh and retains the valve.Its louder than an M Performance exhuast though
I'm now at 43k and thought this thread is due an update!
Car had a big service + brake fluid change at 36k
Still enjoying the car and plan on taking it on my first proper track day next week at Donnington. Despite doing mainly m/way miles (av. mpg - 29.6) I'm about to change to my 4th set of tyres - the combination of a relatively narrow rear section (245) given the large torque band and lsd just means I can't help but provoke the back end sometimes
Change from Michelin PSS' to Goodyear Assy 5 has improved wet grip and reduced road noise massively - this was Kevin Birds recommendation when I went to fit the suspension.
Had the chance of switching into a BMW M2 competition a few months back, I had the car for a few days and was left massively impressed. The taughtness of the chassis was just fantastic, it didn't ride as well over a bumpy B road as my car but still an immense motor overall- feels like a modern e46 M3.
I dont think its worth changing from a M140i birds car though for the extra £20k. For my needs, this car works much better as a daily.
In case I didn't stress it enough in my first post, I haven't managed to un-phase this cars chassis at any speed (where its safe to do so) down a B-road. For a set up that feels so compliant/normal driving around casually, I thought that its possible to unsettle the chassis over big undulations and bumps but up to now I haven't been able to!
I know this set up won't be ideal for track, but thats fine as I just wanted to try it out and see what its like. I need a proper track weapon though - Clio Trophy?
During lockdown - I decided to undertake the following:
-Interim oil/filter service - parts from BMW Harry Fairnbairn who I find always works out the cheapest
-Full interior deep clean + changed from silver dash trim to piano black (had these coated to minimise scratching)
-Wheels off for a deep clean
-Clean out arches / sills / suspension and rust proof them with Bilter hamber's products (fantastic stuff)
-Fit intercooler guards - prone to failure through stone chips
This lockdown left me just searching the classifieds (live many of us) and as a result led me to purchase a Velvet blue E39 M5. It was a 850 mile round trip to collect it but can confirm it was worth the journey! What. A. Car. Anyways, I will need to make a new thread on that one as it will be a bit of a project.
Jumping back into the 140, I thought I'd be left disappointed but in fact it just made me appreciate the car more which was something I didn't expect. The fact it looks like a mundane 1-series but delivers so much more is what appeals to me.
As intended when I brought this car.. I'd like to see it go onto 100k and beyond. Definitely a keeper despite non-comp M2 falling in price and tempting me.
Plans:
Europe blast
Centre gravity for geo
Choice suspension improvements that keep the car looking entirely OEM (as it does now) but do not have a noticeable NVH trade - off.
Pictures to follow
Car had a big service + brake fluid change at 36k
Still enjoying the car and plan on taking it on my first proper track day next week at Donnington. Despite doing mainly m/way miles (av. mpg - 29.6) I'm about to change to my 4th set of tyres - the combination of a relatively narrow rear section (245) given the large torque band and lsd just means I can't help but provoke the back end sometimes
Change from Michelin PSS' to Goodyear Assy 5 has improved wet grip and reduced road noise massively - this was Kevin Birds recommendation when I went to fit the suspension.Had the chance of switching into a BMW M2 competition a few months back, I had the car for a few days and was left massively impressed. The taughtness of the chassis was just fantastic, it didn't ride as well over a bumpy B road as my car but still an immense motor overall- feels like a modern e46 M3.
I dont think its worth changing from a M140i birds car though for the extra £20k. For my needs, this car works much better as a daily.
In case I didn't stress it enough in my first post, I haven't managed to un-phase this cars chassis at any speed (where its safe to do so) down a B-road. For a set up that feels so compliant/normal driving around casually, I thought that its possible to unsettle the chassis over big undulations and bumps but up to now I haven't been able to!
I know this set up won't be ideal for track, but thats fine as I just wanted to try it out and see what its like. I need a proper track weapon though - Clio Trophy?
During lockdown - I decided to undertake the following:
-Interim oil/filter service - parts from BMW Harry Fairnbairn who I find always works out the cheapest
-Full interior deep clean + changed from silver dash trim to piano black (had these coated to minimise scratching)
-Wheels off for a deep clean
-Clean out arches / sills / suspension and rust proof them with Bilter hamber's products (fantastic stuff)
-Fit intercooler guards - prone to failure through stone chips
This lockdown left me just searching the classifieds (live many of us
) and as a result led me to purchase a Velvet blue E39 M5. It was a 850 mile round trip to collect it but can confirm it was worth the journey! What. A. Car. Anyways, I will need to make a new thread on that one as it will be a bit of a project.Jumping back into the 140, I thought I'd be left disappointed but in fact it just made me appreciate the car more which was something I didn't expect. The fact it looks like a mundane 1-series but delivers so much more is what appeals to me.
As intended when I brought this car.. I'd like to see it go onto 100k and beyond. Definitely a keeper despite non-comp M2 falling in price and tempting me.
Plans:
Europe blast
Centre gravity for geo
Choice suspension improvements that keep the car looking entirely OEM (as it does now) but do not have a noticeable NVH trade - off.
Pictures to follow
Edited by J51dhu on Thursday 18th June 00:16
Edited by J51dhu on Thursday 18th June 00:16
Edited by J51dhu on Thursday 18th June 00:19
Edited by J51dhu on Thursday 18th June 00:21
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