Discussion
Small but satisfying job today.
The ones on there were cheapo Italian copies, two piece and not well put together. It was only £10 each from the dealer for OE stuff. I’ll get the wheels done later.
Bumpers are £400 to sort out. Not too bad and will really clean the car up. Had to order a PDC mounting bracket to replace the buggered one.
Oh, and a bulb failed. Fascinating stuff.
The ones on there were cheapo Italian copies, two piece and not well put together. It was only £10 each from the dealer for OE stuff. I’ll get the wheels done later.
Bumpers are £400 to sort out. Not too bad and will really clean the car up. Had to order a PDC mounting bracket to replace the buggered one.
Oh, and a bulb failed. Fascinating stuff.
t but easily replaced via Cotswold BMWSo, not much has happened. A recent oil and filter change, that's about it on expenses.
It's proving to be pretty perfect for an all rounder. The carbon diffuser is a bit annoying as you can't fit the towbar but that's life. After easch trip away in various hire cars it always puts a smile on my face. The simple formula of a big torquey engine in a relatively small car is a great recipe. Exploring the handling reveals that whilst it's no match for the current hyper hatches the 260 odd HP is all useable, in the wet you can turn the traction control off and just play with the LSD, it doesn't bite and it's an absolute giggle at sensible speeds.
Thought the lines and scale of the Fiesta were interesting in this picture.....
IMG_4881 by roo_p, on Flickr
It's proving to be pretty perfect for an all rounder. The carbon diffuser is a bit annoying as you can't fit the towbar but that's life. After easch trip away in various hire cars it always puts a smile on my face. The simple formula of a big torquey engine in a relatively small car is a great recipe. Exploring the handling reveals that whilst it's no match for the current hyper hatches the 260 odd HP is all useable, in the wet you can turn the traction control off and just play with the LSD, it doesn't bite and it's an absolute giggle at sensible speeds.
Thought the lines and scale of the Fiesta were interesting in this picture.....
IMG_4881 by roo_p, on FlickrStill ticking along.....
110K miles or so now, the big news recently is that the petrol cap spring has failed, will have to sort that. Otherwise it's great. Was thinking tonight about what else would pull 6th gear from 30mph to north of 150mph? A moment of weakness saw some interest in an M5, but common sense, and a burning desire to own a Noble prevaled. Rear discs are done, pads are shrugging off road useage.
It drives perfectly, battery is starting to get a bit tired. Also, I want some winter tyres to exploit the diff in the slippery stuff.
Back up to 29mpg average thanks to the motorway stuff, it's not perfect, but I do struggle to think of what I'd ever sell it for?
110K miles or so now, the big news recently is that the petrol cap spring has failed, will have to sort that. Otherwise it's great. Was thinking tonight about what else would pull 6th gear from 30mph to north of 150mph? A moment of weakness saw some interest in an M5, but common sense, and a burning desire to own a Noble prevaled. Rear discs are done, pads are shrugging off road useage.
It drives perfectly, battery is starting to get a bit tired. Also, I want some winter tyres to exploit the diff in the slippery stuff.
Back up to 29mpg average thanks to the motorway stuff, it's not perfect, but I do struggle to think of what I'd ever sell it for?
Mine has recently ticked over 100k.
It's getting some TLC this weekend; new rear calipers, discs and pads, fix the headlight, new rear diffuser (current one slightly damaged), new tyres and full service. Also treated it to new floor mats, BMWP handbrake and gear knob/gaiter, new windscreen wipers and new centre caps!
Like you I struggle to think what I would want instead (without spending silly money). Therefore I'm happy to spend a bit of money on it.
It's getting some TLC this weekend; new rear calipers, discs and pads, fix the headlight, new rear diffuser (current one slightly damaged), new tyres and full service. Also treated it to new floor mats, BMWP handbrake and gear knob/gaiter, new windscreen wipers and new centre caps!
Like you I struggle to think what I would want instead (without spending silly money). Therefore I'm happy to spend a bit of money on it.
yonex said:
Still ticking along.....
110K miles or so now, the big news recently is that the petrol cap spring has failed, will have to sort that. Otherwise it's great. Was thinking tonight about what else would pull 6th gear from 30mph to north of 150mph? A moment of weakness saw some interest in an M5, but common sense, and a burning desire to own a Noble prevaled. Rear discs are done, pads are shrugging off road useage.
It drives perfectly, battery is starting to get a bit tired. Also, I want some winter tyres to exploit the diff in the slippery stuff.
Back up to 29mpg average thanks to the motorway stuff, it's not perfect, but I do struggle to think of what I'd ever sell it for?
Great news! 110K miles or so now, the big news recently is that the petrol cap spring has failed, will have to sort that. Otherwise it's great. Was thinking tonight about what else would pull 6th gear from 30mph to north of 150mph? A moment of weakness saw some interest in an M5, but common sense, and a burning desire to own a Noble prevaled. Rear discs are done, pads are shrugging off road useage.
It drives perfectly, battery is starting to get a bit tired. Also, I want some winter tyres to exploit the diff in the slippery stuff.
Back up to 29mpg average thanks to the motorway stuff, it's not perfect, but I do struggle to think of what I'd ever sell it for?
For the 30 to 150+ in 6th challenge I suppose other BMWs with the 3 litre N52 spring to mind - like my E90 330i daily (only because I couldn't find a 130i in budget).
One day...………….!
Wonderful cars - seeing this makes me long for my old one which some c*nt stole from me last month . It also had Birds suspension and a Quaife and was an absolute joy to drive. It's been replaced with an E91 330d and although it's almost as quick in a straight line and probably objectively better for the type of driving I do, it's dull as ditchwater in comparison and sounds like a bus. I might have to go back to a 130i at some point but I think I'll struggle to get one as good as my old one without paying an absolute fortune 
Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.
Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.sixpistons said:
Wonderful cars - seeing this makes me long for my old one which some c*nt stole from me last month . It also had Birds suspension and a Quaife and was an absolute joy to drive. It's been replaced with an E91 330d and although it's almost as quick in a straight line and probably objectively better for the type of driving I do, it's dull as ditchwater in comparison and sounds like a bus. I might have to go back to a 130i at some point but I think I'll struggle to get one as good as my old one without paying an absolute fortune Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.
They are a strange brew. I have notions of selling, but then wonder what I’d do? It’s a unique blend of the last proper straight 6 with just enough creature comforts. I’ll never tire of the brakes. They are way over the top, but, the feel of them is just so nice. It’s not fast, it’s not slow. The LSD is genuinely useful. It’s worth what, £10K to anyone mad enough, for me, to replace £20K. For that I’d buy an M3 CS, even then it’d need money spending to match certain elements, did I mention the brakes Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.
yonex said:
sixpistons said:
Wonderful cars - seeing this makes me long for my old one which some c*nt stole from me last month . It also had Birds suspension and a Quaife and was an absolute joy to drive. It's been replaced with an E91 330d and although it's almost as quick in a straight line and probably objectively better for the type of driving I do, it's dull as ditchwater in comparison and sounds like a bus. I might have to go back to a 130i at some point but I think I'll struggle to get one as good as my old one without paying an absolute fortune Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.
They are a strange brew. I have notions of selling, but then wonder what I’d do? It’s a unique blend of the last proper straight 6 with just enough creature comforts. I’ll never tire of the brakes. They are way over the top, but, the feel of them is just so nice. It’s not fast, it’s not slow. The LSD is genuinely useful. It’s worth what, £10K to anyone mad enough, for me, to replace £20K. For that I’d buy an M3 CS, even then it’d need money spending to match certain elements, did I mention the brakes Enjoy yours - there will never be another car made like it.
I love your AP's!
IMG_7026 by roo_p, on FlickrAs it was a pretty glum day overall the TVR stayed in the garage. Poor old 130 was filthy and its going to be sat at the airport all week so figured it was time for a clean. In this process, I may have stumbled upon the future of car cleaning
I washed the various cloths and chamois the other week. I thought it was weird that when rinsing off the car it was almost greasy? Basically the remains of the polish had impregnated the leather and it was leaving a small thin layer of 'stuff'. After berating myself for a good 30 seconds I just buffed it off, hey presto, the car is polished! The cheap pressure washer is great, keeps all the crap out of the arches and sills and after treating the wheels they rinse off nicely.I've got some spare time next week so the wheels are coming off and it's time to have a good look at the calipers. Rear discs are here ready to be swapped and I am looking at which pads to buy. Does anyone know what are standard with AP's......if not I'll be heading to Pagid as they were absolutely brilliant previously, although dusty and definitely more aggressive that what's in these?
The dash and steering wheel are off for a trim, and the seats, as I have never liked the position are likely to be changed for a pair of PP's, I'd like to have the logo removed somehow to keep it discreet, should drop some weight as well. I need a clear week to get the bumpers painted, not a priority now its winter but I'd like them sorted. Wheels are also looking a bit used, and if we are being critical, the paint could do with a good detail.
It'll be off to the guys at DMWorx for its winter service soon. Whilst it still feels super tight, little and often wins the race
Glad it's winter again, always raises a smile. Was offered strong money the other week but I really wouldn't know what else to buy!
AP Racing kits generally use an AP Racing compound APF404.
https://apracing.com/race-car/brake-pads/ap-racing...
I have Carbone Lorraine RC5+ and find them a great street pad. Low noise, low nust and decent bite when cold.
https://apracing.com/race-car/brake-pads/ap-racing...
I have Carbone Lorraine RC5+ and find them a great street pad. Low noise, low nust and decent bite when cold.
I watched last night's episode of Fifth Gear earlier and the 130i featured in VBH's used hot hatch comparison.
I'm not sure how a much newer and more expensive Megane was included, but anyway she rated the BMW ahead of that and the R32 Golf.
I'm not sure how a much newer and more expensive Megane was included, but anyway she rated the BMW ahead of that and the R32 Golf.
Edited by Mr Tidy on Tuesday 26th November 02:11
Mr Tidy said:
I watched last night's episode of Fifth Gear earlier and the 130i featured in VBH's used hot hatch comparison.
I'm not sure how a much newer and more expensive Megane was included, but anywah she rated the BMW ahead of that and the R32 Golf. :thumbsup:
Really, I'll give it a look. I'm about to offload the 130, I think, but it'll be staying aound.I'm not sure how a much newer and more expensive Megane was included, but anywah she rated the BMW ahead of that and the R32 Golf. :thumbsup:
Yesterday, it was oil change time. 8L of Edge relieved me of £100, give or take. Up on the ramp all looked fine, bit of surface rust here and there but pretty decent. Rear tyres are on their last legs, still a few miles away from the bars but the feel in the wet is very noticeable, slight shimmy over the white lines is usually an indication it's time to change.
Anyway. The big (ger) news is that I m looking for a new car. I drove a 996 turbo earlier, quite the thing. What it did do is reveal a little bit about how far this 130i has come. The 130 has better brakes, probably better than a new 911 to be fair. It sounds wonderful, has lower limits to enjoy. At 115K it feels tighter than most modern things, for sure tighter than that 996, basically every bush and component is now only 10K old, it therefore should. But. The way it deals with bumps, compared to that 911, is remarkable. I think I am losing my mind because I preferred it. FFS
Now I'm thinking of another M3 or M5, even M2? But I do wonder what could come from a really sorted older car. I love NA straight sixes, would a classic M5 be the car, or maybe an E46 CS.
Worse still on Harry's Garage he has a V12 Jag, which he bought for 5K and spent the same on suspension, shorter diff and brakes. It's exactly where I am I think, maybe?
Anyway. The big (ger) news is that I m looking for a new car. I drove a 996 turbo earlier, quite the thing. What it did do is reveal a little bit about how far this 130i has come. The 130 has better brakes, probably better than a new 911 to be fair. It sounds wonderful, has lower limits to enjoy. At 115K it feels tighter than most modern things, for sure tighter than that 996, basically every bush and component is now only 10K old, it therefore should. But. The way it deals with bumps, compared to that 911, is remarkable. I think I am losing my mind because I preferred it. FFS
Now I'm thinking of another M3 or M5, even M2? But I do wonder what could come from a really sorted older car. I love NA straight sixes, would a classic M5 be the car, or maybe an E46 CS.
Worse still on Harry's Garage he has a V12 Jag, which he bought for 5K and spent the same on suspension, shorter diff and brakes. It's exactly where I am I think, maybe?
Edited by anonymous-user on Wednesday 27th November 20:34
It appears your journey is coming to an end, just as mine is beginning.....
I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
Andy_5 said:
It appears your journey is coming to an end, just as mine is beginning.....
I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
Great choice, they are fantastic cars. I went from a manual 130i to an auto M135i and although I really like my new one I still wish I had the 130i in some respects, it's surprising how similar they both feel.I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
Andy_5 said:
It appears your journey is coming to an end, just as mine is beginning.....
I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
Ah, it’s not leaving, not unless a very daft offer is made. I think the recent 911 drive has proven that it’s likely a keeper. I do wonder what could be done with an older 5 or 3 series. Straight six slightly longer wheelbase. I’ll be having a chat to a guy I know, he’s got a shed load of classic BMW’s. I've read this thread from start to finish, several times with great interest. So much so, that a 130i has been on my radar for a while, but just haven't found the right one, until yesterday.
Just picked up a 2007 BMW 130i LE, and I'm over the moon with it!! So smooth and responsive, it's a great package which I can wait to 'fettle'.
I'm sure you'll be back in this car at some point given your past form!
Glad you found the thread interesting, I’ll keep adding
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