BMW 1 Series (E87)

Interior

The first generation of the BMW 1 Series consists of the BMW E81 (3-door hatchback), BMW E82 (coupe), BMW E87 (5-door hatchback) and BMW E88 (convertible) compact cars. The E81/E82/E87/E88 generation was produced from 2004 until 2013 and is sometimes collectively referred to as the E8x. The E8x replaced the 3 Series Compact as the entry-level models of the BMW range.

The chassis has an aluminum multi-link suspension, and a rear-wheel drive layout with a longitudinally-mounted engine giving 50:50 weight balance, which was a rare configuration for a hatchback as most cars in this market segment use front-wheel drive. The engines available were four-cylinder turbo-diesel, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, six-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and six-cylinder turbocharged petrol (the latter only available on coupe and convertible models).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The highest performance trim is the 1 Series M Coupé which was powered by the BMW N54 turbocharged inline-six engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It was produced in only the coupe body style and is considered the predecessor to the BMW M2.

Following the introduction of the F20/F21 1 Series in 2011, the E81/E87 hatchback models began to be phased out, while the E82/E88 coupes and convertibles remained in production until 2013, when they were replaced by the F22/F23 2 Series models.

Development and launch

Initially, BMW considered adopting the Rover R30 design program into the upcoming 1 Series; however, it was eventually decided to develop the E8x alongside the E90 3 Series.<ref name="autocar-20040329">Template:Cite news</ref> The E8x shares approximately 60% of components with the E90,<ref name="businessweek.com">Template:Cite web</ref> including front and rear suspension, structure, chassis, engines, drivetrain, hardware and electronic elements.

The 1 Series was developed under design director Chris Bangle,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> At the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, the CS1 Concept previewed the 1 Series design.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> with Christopher Chapman leading the exterior design for the hatchback models.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The first 1 Series production models – in the E87 five-door hatchback body style – were launched at the Paris Motor Show in September 2004.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

In May 2005, in a commercial for the 1 Series Hatchback, Kermit the Frog was shown driving a BMW 1 Series around in a desert making figure-eights, showcasing the car's agility.<ref>Template:Cite webTemplate:Cbignore</ref>

In 2012, a number of 1 Series vehicles were stolen in the United Kingdom, due to thieves programming a blank key fob to start the car through the on-board diagnostics (OBD) connection.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> This security flaw was later patched, for both existing vehicles and new cars produced since.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

Model year changes

2007

In March 2007, the E87 five-door hatchback received a facelift (also called LCI).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Changes included the N43 four-cylinder engine replacing the N45 and N46 engines, various changes to improve fuel economy (marketed as EfficientDynamics), electric power steering replacing the traditional hydraulic power steering, revised bumpers and interior changes.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

In May 2007, the E81 three-door hatchback models were released.

In November 2007, the E82 coupe models were released, followed by the E88 convertible models soon after.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

2010

In 2010 (2011 Model Year), the E82 coupé and E88 convertible models received a facelift. Changes included headlights and taillight revisions, new front/rear bumpers and minor revisions to the interior.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> For the 135i model, the N55 engine replaced the N54. Even though many engines are the same, the facelifted 1 Series fuel consumption is slightly higher in some models such as the 123d, and slightly lower in some models such as the 120i.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Template:Clear

Body styles

• 
  E81 3-door hatchback
• 
  E87 5-door hatchback
• 
  E82 coupe
• 
  E88 convertible

Reviews of the 1 Series' exterior styling were mixed, with the unusual proportions of the hatchback model often receiving criticism.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="clarkson">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

5-door hatchback (E87)

The 1 Series was launched globally in September 2004 as the E87 five-door hatchback.

The E87 was produced from 2004 until 2011,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> with the model range consisting of the 116i, 116d, 118i, 118d, 120i, 120d, 123d and 130i. Kerb Weight: 1340 kg (2954 lbs.).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Template:Clear

3-door hatchback (E81)

The E81 three-door hatchback models were produced from July 2007 until 2012.was designed before the 5 door hatchback, coupé and convertible versions (hence its lower e-number), but its introduction was delayed until 2007 when it was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

As per the five-door body style, the model range consisted of the 116i, 116d, 118i, 118d, 120i, 120d, 123d and 130i.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The overall length is the same as the five-door models, and the kerb weight is Template:Convert lighter.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Template:Clear

2-door coupe (E82)

The 1 Series Coupé (E82) was designed before the 5 door hatchback and convertible versions (hence its lower e-number), but, like the 3-door hatchback, its introduction was delayed until 2007 when it was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> and went on sale on 24 November 2007.

The model range consisted of the 118d, 118i, 120i, 120d, 123d, 125i, 125se, 128i, 135i, 135is, and the M Coupé.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In North America, the E82 went on sale in October 2007 with the 128i and the 135i models.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The E82 was produced until August 2013. Template:Clear

2-door convertible (E88)

The E88 convertible models were produced from 2007 until June 2013. The model range consisted of the 118d, 118i, 120i, 120d, 123d, 125i, 128i, 135i, and 135is.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The E88 uses a fabric roof (unlike the E93 3 Series convertible, which uses a folding metal roof). Template:Clear

Engines

The factory specifications are as follows:<ref name="Automobil Revue 2008">All data according to: Automobil Revue, catalogue editions 2006/2008.</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="motortrend.com">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="bmw.co.uk">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Petrol

Model	Year	Engine	Power	Torque
116i	2004–2011	1.6 L N45 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2007-2011	1.6 L N43 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2009-2011	2.0 L N43 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
118i	2005–2007	2.0 L N46 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2007–2009	2.0 L N43 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2009-2011	2.0 L N43 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
120i	2004–2007	2.0 L N46 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2007–2013	2.0 L N43 inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2006-2011	2.0 L N46N inline-4	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
125i	2007–2013	3.0 L N52 inline-6	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
128i	2008-2013	3.0 L N52 inline-6	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
130i	2005–2007	3.0 L N52 inline 6		Template:Convert
	2007–2011		Template:Convert	Template:Convert
135i	2007–2010	3.0 L N54 inline-6 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2010–2013	3.0 L N55 inline-6 turbo
135is	2013	3.0 L N55 inline-6 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
1M Coupe	2011–2012	3.0 L N54 inline-6 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert

In most countries, the 135i is the top model of the E82/E88 coupe/convertible range (excluding the limited production 1M Coupe).<ref name="ultimatecarpage.com">Template:Cite web</ref> From 2007 to 2010, the 135i was powered by the N54 twin-turbo 3.0-litre engine with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="bmwca">Template:Cite web</ref> From 2010, the 135i was upgraded to the N55 single-turbo 3.0-litre engine with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The differential fitted to the 135i uses double-helical ball bearings, which operate at a lower temperature and reach operating temperature quicker, due to a reduction of fluid required in the differential.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The 135i brakes are 6-piston front calipers and 2-piston rear calipers, with disk sizes of 338 mm and 324 mm respectively.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Another E82/E88 coupe/convertible trim sold only in the United States and Canada was the 128i, which was powered by a Template:Convert version of the 3.0 litre BMW N52 inline-6 engine.

The 130i is the top model of the E81/E87 hatchback range and was released in September 2004.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> It is powered by the N52 3.0-litre naturally aspirated engine<ref name="caranddriver 130i">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="evo 130i">Template:Cite web</ref> and transmission choices were a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Diesel

Model	Year	Engine	Power	Torque
116d	2009–2011	2.0 L N47 inline-4 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
118d	2004–2007	2.0 L M47 inline-4 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2007–2013	2.0 L N47 inline-4 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
120d	2004–2007	2.0 L M47 inline-4 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
	2007–2013	2.0 L N47 inline-4 turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert
123d	2007–2013	2.0 L N47 inline-4 twin-turbo	Template:Convert	Template:Convert

Transmissions

In early 2006, the 5-speed manual transmission was phased out in favour of the 6-speed Getrag GS6 gearbox.

Several 6-speed automatic transmissions were used- the ZF 6HP for the 135i, GM 6L50 for the 128i, and GM 6L45 for 116i.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> A 7-speed Getrag dual-clutch transmission ("DCT") was available for the 135i model from 2010.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

BMW Performance upgrades

BMW offered a "performance power kit" in two stages for the N55 engine. Stage 1 included an ECU remap with a power boost from 225 kW to 240 kW and 30Nm of extra torque – now peaking at 430Nm. If installed in an automatic 335i or 135i the torque peak is bumped up by another 20Nm to 450Nm. <ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref> Stage 2 added some additional engine cooling through an additional supplementary radiator and larger cooling fan. Other upgrade options included a modified rear bumper and performance rear muffler. These options were all included as standard on the US spec 135iS.

Special editions

1 Series M Coupé

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé (often referred to as the "1M") is the high-performance model of the E82 coupe range, sold under the BMW M performance sub-brand. While BMW naming convention would have called the car the "M1", an alternate name was chosen to avoid confusion with the BMW M1 supercar from the 1970's.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

At the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show, BMW unveiled the 1 Series tii Concept, which was thought to be a preview of the M version of the 1 Series.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> However, the eventual 1M model appeared four years later and with significant differences, such as an engine with six-cylinders instead of four.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The 1M was BMW M's second turbocharged engine (after the S63 V8 which debuted in the X6M). The BMW N54 fitted to the 1M was originally being used in the E89 Z4 sDrive35is and has rated outputs of Template:Convert at 5,900 rpm and Template:Convert from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> An additional Template:Convert is produced during overboost taking overall peak torque to Template:Convert.<ref name="1 Series M press kit">Template:Cite web</ref> The sole transmission available was a six-speed manual.

The front and rear track widths were widened by Template:Convert and Template:Convert respectively and a limited-slip differential was used.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> As a result, the overall width is Template:Convert.<ref name="1 Series M press kit"/> The curb weight is Template:Convert.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Initial plans were to limit production of the 1M Coupe to 2,700 units, but the final production total was 6,309.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The 1M Coupe placed third in the Evo Magazine 2011 Car of the Year awards.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> It also featured on Top Gear on 26 June 2011 and recorded a time of 1:25.0 around the Top Gear test track under damp conditions<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="miswrite">Template:Cite episode</ref> and received "Richard Hammond's Car of the Year 2011" award in the Top Gear magazine.<ref>Richard Hammond, "TG Awards 2011: Richard's car of the year", BBC: Top Gear, Official Site, 12/30/2011</ref>

ActiveE electric car trial

Template:Main The BMW ActiveE was an electric car based on the E82 coupe that was produced in small quantities for demonstration and testing purposes.<ref name=concept>Template:Cite web</ref> The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rated the range as Template:Convert and the energy consumption as 33 kW·h per Template:Convert.<ref name=EPArating>Template:Cite web</ref> The cars were leased to customers for two years, following which they were taken off the road. A total of 1,100 vehicles were produced, with 700 of these being delivered to U.S. customers beginning in January 2012.<ref name=Plugincars1011>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name=Deliveries2012>Template:Cite web</ref>

Motorsports

Beric Lynton won the 2014 Australian Production Car Championship driving a BMW 1M

In 2006, a BMW 120d modified with a BMW customer racing kit<ref name="topspeed.com">Template:Cite web</ref> entered by "Schubert Motors" placed 5th at the Nurburgring 24 Hours in a field of 220 cars.

Beric Lynton won the 2014 Australian Production Car Championship driving a BMW 1M.

In 2019, the UK based 750 Motor Club introduced a one make mini endurance series using the 2004-2006 116i car. Modified from factory production specifications with a coil over suspension kit, reworked motorsport exhaust and re-programmed ECU the cars race in a 90-minute multiple driver format. For 2020, the series attracted regular grids of over 25 cars with more than 50 cars having been built by both privateers and professional teams. Template:Clear

BMW 135is (United States and Canada)

The 135is coupe and convertible model was sold only for the 2013 model year in the United States and Canada. In other markets, the next generation F20 1 Series had replaced the E82/E88 by this stage, with the top-of-the-line M135i sharing the same engine as the 135is.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

The 135is is powered by an upgraded version of the N55 engine which produces Template:Convert and Template:Convert, an additional 20 hp and 17 lb-ft of torque over the 135i. Other upgrades include sports suspension, an M Sport body kit, and 18-inch wheels.<ref name="autoblog 135is">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="caranddriver.com">Template:Cite web</ref>

Production and sales

The 1 Series was built in Regensburg and Leipzig, Germany.

The E8x accounted for nearly one-fifth of the total BMW sales in 2008.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Sales statistics according to BMW's annual reports:Template:Citation needed

Year	Total	5-door E87	3-door E81	Coupé E82	Cabriolet E88	Comments
2004	39,247	39,247	-	-	-	Launched in September.
2005	149,493	149,493	-	-	-
2006	151,918	151,918	-	-	-
2007	165,803	133,525	30,984	1,287	7	Facelift in March. 3-door version launched in May.
2008	225,095	122,666	49,559	26,304	26,566
2009	216,944	120,323	44,043	24,081	28,506
2010	196,004	113,030	31,980	26,191	24,803
2011	176,418
2012	226,829

Motorsport

British Touring Car Championship

A BMW 120d E87 was entered in the 2007 British Touring Car Championship as the series' first ever diesel car with Rick Kerry at the wheel. The car was uncompetitive but narrowly missed out on points at Rockingham.

The car briefly returned in the 2009 Season with Nick Leason but disappeared after three meetings.

Belgian Gentlemen Drivers Club

The ex-BTCC car later raced in the BGDC and was Class Champion in 2016 and 2019.<ref>https://www.touringcarregister.com/register/428/</ref>

750 Motor Club

Since 2019, the 750 Motor Club has run the 116 Endurance Trophy<ref>https://116trophy.com/trophy/</ref> and 116 Sprint Trophy<ref>https://116trophy.com/sprint/</ref> for the 116i and introduced the Coupe Cup for the 120i E82 in 2023.<ref>https://116trophy.com/coupecup/</ref>

1992 British Touring Car Champion Tim Harvey notably raced in the 116 Endurance Trophy in 2022,<ref>https://www.pressreader.com/uk/motorsport-news/20220721/281736978184882</ref> and the 120 Coupe Cup in 2023.<ref>https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqdlp0cNehV/</ref>

Three time BTCC Champion Matt Neal made an appearance in the 116 Endurance Trophy in 2023.<ref>https://750mc.co.uk/touring-car-stars-to-join-recordbreaking-bmw-116-120-grids-at-silverstone-1637/</ref>

1993 BTCC Runner-up Steve Soper tested the 116i in 2022,<ref>https://116trophy.com/tim-harvey-116-debut/</ref> and made an appearance in the 120 Coupe Cup in 2023.<ref>https://750mc.co.uk/formulae/120-coupe-cup-2/</ref>

BMW 120d Rallycross Cup

The Irish Rallycross Championship introduced a one-make series for 2004-to-2013-spec BMW 120ds for the 2025 Season.<ref>https://www.irx.ie/classes/bmw-120d/</ref>