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Been looking at the 1 series. Seem like a fun car for the money, don't know why they don't come up more when people talk about affordable fun RWD cars. Especially considering how the MX5s out there are either falling apart or too new to be cheap any more.
Nef-
I came from owning 5 mx5’s and then the mini. They do have a bit of a cult following especially being the last of the non turbo BMW engine (n52)
Hope it’s good, I’ve not even seen it in the flesh or driven one... -
I love mine. Great fun to drive on country rodes, decent ride quality around town and it's reasonably practical. Wish I'd had the cash and buy im from Mrs to go for a punchier engine but we were really looking to buy as new a car as we could afford. The 118i in sports mode is still about as much fun as I reasonably need in a small car.
Beamers don't seem to be the most reliable - common issues for 1's are: the bushings in the wishbones going (I had to replace mine - not too pricey but a pain for 5 year old car with 36k on it). Signs to look for is any knocking sound on braking around town and a judder over 60mph.
Steering rack is a weak point too. Watch out for any rattles when driving over rough surfaces.The interiors of the older ones are pretty rubbish and cramped, but the newer 2014+ is much better finished. On the flip -I've heard the engines in the earlier models are better.
pryally
dan
Bought a new (to me) car and collecting on Monday - bmw 130i so will be looking to sell my Mini Cooper S clubman. Loads of work done to it during my two year ownership - hpfp, rocker cover, coils, plugs, full s/s exhaust inc sport cat, coilovers, new alloys/ tyres. Great car but fancied a change.