Had a 135i loaner; love my 128i even more.

G5Ti · 01-20-2009, 06:22 PM

This topic is largely irrelevant for anyone who already owns a 135 (or 128 for that matter). It's more for those who come here on the fence.

My 128 had its first little glitch – driver's side window wouldn't go up or do the little drop dance, and due to circumstances I had to leave it for the weekend. The folks at Kelly BMW (being awesome as they are) handed me the keys to a Titanium Silver 135i with Steptronic, Sports, Premium and iPod/USB. Car was on summer run-flats and had 6000 miles.

Impressions of the multi-day drive:

1. The 135i is not fun as a 30 mile round-trip daily driver. It feels like a thoroughbred being held captive in a little tiny stable where it can barely breathe, let alone run wild as it was meant to do. The engine is never warm enough for spirited driving (it's cold here in Ohio), and that really wouldn't have mattered in my case because the car had summer tires and there's snow on the ground.

2. The 135i's brakes spank the pants of the 128i. I love my 128i, and I believe the brakes are more than adequate for the majority of driving I do. However, the 135 has much more initial grip and the feel is more satisfying. I would love the opportunity to auto-cross the cars back-to-back. The performance brake package may very well be something I sink money into at some point.

3. I'm thrilled I didn't buy the VW R32. It was a top contender for me, but I worried I'd end up hating the DSG and its silly paddle shifters. The 135 had Steptronic + paddles, and I loathed it. I don't like autos anyway, but OMG do I hate the paddles more. I don't know if it's because I never really got used to them, but they always seem to be in the wrong place. Perhaps they shouldn't move with the wheel? If you do get steptronic, I'd probably skip the $100 paddle option at the very least.

4. The 135's wheels and rear bumper are pure sex and I want them for my car.

5. If you live where it snows and you don't get winter tires for your 135, you are more courageous than I. It was fun for 4 days, but there were many white-knuckled moments with that car. It was so easy to make it slide and spin that I feared any road surface that didn't look 100% dry. My 128 with winter tires feels like a friggin' 4x4 in regard to traction and stability. (Side-note: DSC is amazing; you can almost drive without thinking, which might actually be a bad thing.)

6. The M Sport steering wheel is amazing. This was one of the things that almost made me buy the 135, and after having it for 4 days, my 128's wheel feels, well, scrawny. If someone gave me one (or offered an amazing price), I'd jump on it, but it's not a deal-breaker.

7. Black Boston leather with gray poplar is very, very dark. It might work in sunnier climates, but I found the interior to be too monochromatic and boring. Coral, terra and lemon FTW!

8. I love my 128. And I love my manual transmission. The power delivery of the 128 is more engaging and more useful in daily driving. It's great for spirited weekend jaunts, and I feel like I'm getting all my money's worth every time I sit behind the wheel. I eagerly await Oktoberfest and other driving events this year to explore the potential of the car.

For what they're worth, those are my thoughts. ( I won't lie, I secretly hope something minor goes wrong with my car come spring so I can have a 135 for a warm-weather weekend getaway. But I wouldn't change a thing if I did the purchase over again.)

Perfect128 · 01-20-2009, 07:04 PM

Great summary of your impressions and prepare yourself for the 135ers feedback...

:wink:

Mega Man · 01-20-2009, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G5Ti

1. The 135i is not fun as a 30 mile round-trip daily driver. It feels like a thoroughbred being held captive in a little tiny stable where it can barely breathe, let alone run wild as it was meant to do. The engine is never warm enough for spirited driving

4. The 135's wheels and rear bumper are pure sex

+1

993 911 · 01-20-2009, 07:19 PM

pshhh

BBK · 01-20-2009, 07:19 PM

Interesting thoughts. Although, I can't help but ask...

Why do you love your 128 more? Out of all those points, only one reason actually validates having the 128 over the 135 (which is point #1.)

The rest, the steering wheel, brakes are a plus for the 135. The other points, 3, 7, 8 don't count because you could just order a manual 135, with the interior colours you prefer. If the power is too much, don't press it as hard, it's quite simple?

Just because you have the power there, doesn't mean you have to utilise it all the time...

cagekicker · 01-20-2009, 07:30 PM

hmmmmmm

G5Ti · 01-20-2009, 07:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BBK

Interesting thoughts. Although, I can't help but ask...

Why do you love your 128 more? Out of all those points, only one reason actually validates having the 128 over the 135 (which is point #1.)

The rest, the steering wheel, brakes are a plus for the 135. The other points, 3, 7, 8 don't count because you could just order a manual 135, with the interior colours you prefer. If the power is too much, don't press it as hard, it's quite simple?

Just because you have the power there, doesn't mean you have to utilise it all the time...

The power of 135 is impractical for me as a daily driver. For many, especially those with long commutes, it may not be so. But the majority of my daily driving doesn't involve the sorts of roads where the 135 can shine. Also, the 135's fuel economy is rather pathetic in comparison. During my 4 days, I averaged 18 mpg, and this was without running the engine hard. At this time of year, my 128 grabs a solid 23-24, with summer figures about 2mpg higher.

While certain attributes of the 135 are nice (wheels, bumper, brakes), they're not critical for me, and they can be easily added to the 128. Honestly, the 128 just feels right for the way I drive, and that's essentially how I felt when I test drove the cars (probably 5-6 times each). Basically, we're taking an exceptional car (the 128) and comparing it to a car that's even more over-the-top (the 135), so of course the 135 is going to "win" many comparos based on how individuals prefer their vehicles.

Again, my main point was 1) I feel more confident than ever that the 128 was the perfect choice for me, and 2) those considering the purchase of a 128 or 135 may find some of these points relevant (i.e., interior color, auto, comparison topics, etc.).

I'm really not trying to spark debate. None of my posts have ever been meant to, but I do think (understandably) the consensus around here is always in favor of the 135, and some prospective owners should be aware the 128 is an equally excellent vehicle. I don't expect 135 owners to pour stories of buyer's remorse, because I can't imagine any of them would have any. Ditto for the 128 owners. :-)

Brady1984 · 01-20-2009, 08:03 PM

I was speaking with a friend tonight about the 135 and I honestly said that it's almost too much motor for the car. I love the rush of all 300 horses but for daily driving I am not really using that much. Of course it's good to know that all the power is there but the 128 is a great car.

Severious · 01-20-2009, 08:19 PM

Good Read

Its a review and subjective and that's what people should see, so I'm only going to say one thing un-subjectively and more factually. I agree with you on just about every count except for possibly the power delivery b/c that's primary a issue of transmission choice / lack of choice on the loaner. If you have had the chance to try a manual on the 135 it would have a similar power delivery to what your used too, even with the extra horsepower potential.

But to the defense of my own subjectivity I happen to LOVE my little thoroughbred; mainly because I live where their are nothing but miles of open country roads to open her up on, and in the south where snow is a rare problem. My advice, move to the middle of nowhere and buy a 135 and see what you may be missing.

AlBel1214 · 01-20-2009, 08:49 PM

Fair review... personally when I made this decision there was no way in hell I was going to get the 128i.. In my book it was either a brand new 328i coupe or the 135i (around the same in price with the options I wanted)...

I just couldn't pass on the power...and if I did settle for the N/A v6 then I would of wanted something bigger...

Rawhide · 01-20-2009, 09:07 PM

I've driven both and they're both great cars.

This is an internet forum that attracts enthusiasts so of course the higher performance of the two is preferred, which is totally understandable. There are people reading this that actually go to the track on a regular basis - this is unheard of in my circle of friends and associates.

Out in the real world, my 128 has more punch than 85-90% of the vehicles sharing the road with me, and still gets loads of looks and compliments. For me a 135 would have been extra money up front and ongoing (insurance and gas) for something I couldn't even quantify with my driving habits and lifestyle.

Personally, the only thing the 135 has I would like my 128 to have is the cosmetic stuff - rear spoiler and maybe the bumper if I could keep my fogs.

I will say I don't care for the stock wheels my 128 came with - but that will be remedied this spring.

P.S. I have black Boston leather with gray poplar and while it is dark, it's also very subtle and somehow seems more classy than some other color combos.

AlienDNA · 01-20-2009, 09:08 PM

Good comparison - the brakes on the 135 and the M-sport wheel are actually 2 of the main reasons I decided to go with one over the 128. But my question is, what did you do to piss off the dealership? Giving you a 300hp car with summer tires in Ohio in winter, they must be trying to kill you. :wink:

x97Melbourne · 01-20-2009, 09:20 PM

good read. i see what you mean about the 128i being more of a daily driver....because you're right, few of us (myself included) can use the power of the 135i. the power of the 135i is amazing....but how often can anyone really redline the thing in any gear except 1 and 2???

I, sadly, didn't drive a manual 128i before ordering my car. i only had the opportunity to drive a 128i automatic (super LAME)...to this day, i dont' know if i didn't like the 128i, or just the automatic. i do wish i at least had the opportunity to drive the 128i manual.... if i had, i may have a 128i parked outside instead of the 135i.
looks like you made the right decision, enjoy your car.

ulrichd · 01-20-2009, 09:24 PM

I used to own a 00 M-Coupe and would agree that ultra high performance cars can be downright boring in day to day driving. I also own a 6-speed 128 and it's just perfect.

ulrichd · 01-20-2009, 09:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G5Ti

4. The 135's wheels and rear bumper are pure sex and I want them for my car.

I picked up a used set in the for sale forum and the 135 bumper retrofit is detailed in the DIY forum. I did it myself, it's not difficult.

jmunro · 01-20-2009, 09:35 PM

dont lie, you want to bend the 135 over because it's so damn sexy and you know it will give you a run for your money

hehehe...

jtsherri · 01-20-2009, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G5Ti

4. The 135's wheels and rear bumper are pure sex and I want them for my car.

My car's in storage w/5500 miles on the wheels and tires. Plenty of tread left and would like to sell them before spring. Being in OH, it'd be a nice weekend trip up to buy them... I'd even mount them on the car in my garage so you could enjoy the ride home on them. :biggrin:

Noize · 01-20-2009, 09:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G5Ti

The power of 135 is impractical for me as a daily driver. For many, especially those with long commutes, it may not be so. But the majority of my daily driving doesn't involve the sorts of roads where the 135 can shine. Also, the 135's fuel economy is rather pathetic in comparison. During my 4 days, I averaged 18 mpg, and this was without running the engine hard. At this time of year, my 128 grabs a solid 23-24, with summer figures about 2mpg higher.

While certain attributes of the 135 are nice (wheels, bumper, brakes), they're not critical for me, and they can be easily added to the 128. Honestly, the 128 just feels right for the way I drive, and that's essentially how I felt when I test drove the cars (probably 5-6 times each). Basically, we're taking an exceptional car (the 128) and comparing it to a car that's even more over-the-top (the 135), so of course the 135 is going to "win" many comparos based on how individuals prefer their vehicles.

Again, my main point was 1) I feel more confident than ever that the 128 was the perfect choice for me, and 2) those considering the purchase of a 128 or 135 may find some of these points relevant (i.e., interior color, auto, comparison topics, etc.).

I'm really not trying to spark debate. None of my posts have ever been meant to, but I do think (understandably) the consensus around here is always in favor of the 135, and some prospective owners should be aware the 128 is an equally excellent vehicle. I don't expect 135 owners to pour stories of buyer's remorse, because I can't imagine any of them would have any. Ditto for the 128 owners. :-)

I agree with you that I wouldn't have a steptronic. No way.

I think our opinion on power differences is interseting, because I found the power of the 135i in stock form to be a bit lacking.

I do primarily Interstate driving, and some backroads. I have a tune and intakes, and picked up almost 80whp on the dyno. I put all ~390 HP to use every chance I get.

On those rare times I drive completely sane, I have seen 31mpg on highway trips using 6th gear and low throttle inputs to pass. When the price of gas freaked out at over $4 a gallon, I tried to hypermile and was getting 28mph with some city driving mixed in. Of course that's no fun at all, and with gas back down, I'm ready for the fun.

My main beef with the N52 is that its noisy and a just tepid in the power department. I think the iteration in the 2006 330i was lots more exciting, and would love if they used that engine in the 328 and 128. I guess getting more options for less money in this economy is just flat out over, though.

Thanks for your review.

Robert · 01-20-2009, 09:44 PM

I have the same sentiments coming from a 135i driver. On weekends I wish there's more power in my 135i but on weekdays I prefer my civic in LA traffic. During the 100 mile commute everyday I often arrive at the same location at the same time as the 300hp+ sports car.

warmtoes · 01-20-2009, 10:21 PM

I think you wrote a fair and balanced review. We all like different things for different reasons.

I opted for the 135 because I just wanted to be able to unleash that power when I wanted/needed it. But, in normal everyday driving, you can't use it as you noted.

If all there was, was a 128i I probably would have still bought the 1 series. But, since there was the N54 version, I just had to have it.

Gogud · 01-20-2009, 10:45 PM

I didn't drive a 128. I know I would like it. I owned 2 6cyl BMWs and liked both very much, but always wished for more power. The way the 135 with steptronic effortlessly moves through traffic with only a slight feed of throttle is immensly gratifying. It is not a frenetic racer if you take it easy. It feels like a big V8 when cruising and screams like an M when you floor it. I considered buying a used e46 M3 instead, but my wife wanted the 135. Although mods to close the gap in handling between the M3 and stock 135 are costing plenty, I am glad to have the 135. The only down sides are the mileage and purchase price. If these are not a major problem for you and you STILL prefer the 128, you have a screw loose!

boxerdog · 01-20-2009, 11:06 PM

I have the paddles on mine and I have to admit that the first few days I was also confuse on how to use them. I seem to always do the wrong thing. I'm a MT type of person by preference and experience but I got an amazing deal on this one and I settle for it.
Today, I was using the paddles again and after a few seconds I realize that they are not as bad as I thought. It's actually very nice, fast and easy to use. Initially I had to keep looking at the RPNs to see how I was doing but after a wile, I was just listening and feeling the engine like I do when I'm driving a MT. beleave me, it does feel like you are in control and it's a ton of fun... Like everything else, it takes a few tries to get comfortable with something new. I'm sure if you drove it long enough, you may actually like it...

3. I'm thrilled I didn't buy the VW R32. It was a top contender for me, but I worried I'd end up hating the DSG and its silly paddle shifters. The 135 had Steptronic + paddles, and I loathed it. I don't like autos anyway, but OMG do I hate the paddles more. I don't know if it's because I never really got used to them, but they always seem to be in the wrong place. Perhaps they shouldn't move with the wheel? If you do get steptronic, I'd probably skip the $100 paddle option at the very least.

01-20-2009, 06:22 PM	#1
G5Ti Purveyor of fine roads. 17 Rep 339 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW 128i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Ohio iTrader: (0)	Had a 135i loaner; love my 128i even more. This topic is largely irrelevant for anyone who already owns a 135 (or 128 for that matter). It's more for those who come here on the fence. My 128 had its first little glitch – driver's side window wouldn't go up or do the little drop dance, and due to circumstances I had to leave it for the weekend. The folks at Kelly BMW (being awesome as they are) handed me the keys to a Titanium Silver 135i with Steptronic, Sports, Premium and iPod/USB. Car was on summer run-flats and had 6000 miles. Impressions of the multi-day drive: 1. The 135i is not fun as a 30 mile round-trip daily driver. It feels like a thoroughbred being held captive in a little tiny stable where it can barely breathe, let alone run wild as it was meant to do. The engine is never warm enough for spirited driving (it's cold here in Ohio), and that really wouldn't have mattered in my case because the car had summer tires and there's snow on the ground. 2. The 135i's brakes spank the pants of the 128i. I love my 128i, and I believe the brakes are more than adequate for the majority of driving I do. However, the 135 has much more initial grip and the feel is more satisfying. I would love the opportunity to auto-cross the cars back-to-back. The performance brake package may very well be something I sink money into at some point. 3. I'm thrilled I didn't buy the VW R32. It was a top contender for me, but I worried I'd end up hating the DSG and its silly paddle shifters. The 135 had Steptronic + paddles, and I loathed it. I don't like autos anyway, but OMG do I hate the paddles more. I don't know if it's because I never really got used to them, but they always seem to be in the wrong place. Perhaps they shouldn't move with the wheel? If you do get steptronic, I'd probably skip the $100 paddle option at the very least. 4. The 135's wheels and rear bumper are pure sex and I want them for my car. 5. If you live where it snows and you don't get winter tires for your 135, you are more courageous than I. It was fun for 4 days, but there were many white-knuckled moments with that car. It was so easy to make it slide and spin that I feared any road surface that didn't look 100% dry. My 128 with winter tires feels like a friggin' 4x4 in regard to traction and stability. (Side-note: DSC is amazing; you can almost drive without thinking, which might actually be a bad thing.) 6. The M Sport steering wheel is amazing. This was one of the things that almost made me buy the 135, and after having it for 4 days, my 128's wheel feels, well, scrawny. If someone gave me one (or offered an amazing price), I'd jump on it, but it's not a deal-breaker. 7. Black Boston leather with gray poplar is very, very dark. It might work in sunnier climates, but I found the interior to be too monochromatic and boring. Coral, terra and lemon FTW! 8. I love my 128. And I love my manual transmission. The power delivery of the 128 is more engaging and more useful in daily driving. It's great for spirited weekend jaunts, and I feel like I'm getting all my money's worth every time I sit behind the wheel. I eagerly await Oktoberfest and other driving events this year to explore the potential of the car. For what they're worth, those are my thoughts. ( I won't lie, I secretly hope something minor goes wrong with my car come spring so I can have a 135 for a warm-weather weekend getaway. But I wouldn't change a thing if I did the purchase over again.) __________________ 128i alpine \| coral \| premium \| sport \| cold \| xenons \| ipod+usb
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01-20-2009, 07:04 PM	#2
Perfect128 Perfect128 10 Rep 201 Posts Drives: '08 SGM 128i Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: East Bay, Northern CA iTrader: (0)	Great summary of your impressions and prepare yourself for the 135ers feedback... :wink:
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01-20-2009, 07:19 PM	#4
993 911 Captain 47 Rep 882 Posts Drives: Z3M, F31, G07 Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Portland iTrader: (0)	pshhh
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01-20-2009, 07:19 PM	#5
BBK Banned 89 Rep 3,070 Posts Drives: A boring one... Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 BMW 135i [5.76]	Interesting thoughts. Although, I can't help but ask... Why do you love your 128 more? Out of all those points, only one reason actually validates having the 128 over the 135 (which is point #1.) The rest, the steering wheel, brakes are a plus for the 135. The other points, 3, 7, 8 don't count because you could just order a manual 135, with the interior colours you prefer. If the power is too much, don't press it as hard, it's quite simple? Just because you have the power there, doesn't mean you have to utilise it all the time...
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01-20-2009, 07:30 PM	#6
cagekicker Major 16 Rep 1,335 Posts Drives: '09 crimson red 135i Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: miami (vice city) fl. iTrader: (0)	hmmmmmm __________________ 6MT/ Sport Package/ N54/ Asa wheels/ Eibach pro kit springs/ Active autowerke Exhaust/ 35% tint
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01-20-2009, 08:03 PM	#8
Brady1984 Lieutenant 186 Rep 413 Posts Drives: 2015 M3 Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Oklahoma iTrader: (0)	I was speaking with a friend tonight about the 135 and I honestly said that it's almost too much motor for the car. I love the rush of all 300 horses but for daily driving I am not really using that much. Of course it's good to know that all the power is there but the 128 is a great car. __________________ "Most things I worry about never happen anyway" -Tom Petty
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01-20-2009, 08:19 PM	#9
Severious Private 4 Rep 69 Posts Drives: Join Date: Jun 2008 iTrader: (0)	Good Read Its a review and subjective and that's what people should see, so I'm only going to say one thing un-subjectively and more factually. I agree with you on just about every count except for possibly the power delivery b/c that's primary a issue of transmission choice / lack of choice on the loaner. If you have had the chance to try a manual on the 135 it would have a similar power delivery to what your used too, even with the extra horsepower potential. But to the defense of my own subjectivity I happen to LOVE my little thoroughbred; mainly because I live where their are nothing but miles of open country roads to open her up on, and in the south where snow is a rare problem. My advice, move to the middle of nowhere and buy a 135 and see what you may be missing. __________________ 135i Manual Transmission Sparkling Graphite Metallic Black Boston Leather Walnut Trim Sport Package, Cold Weather Package, Ipod/USB interface, Premium Audio, BMW Security System Ordered: March 8, 2008 RE-ordered: June 20, 2008 Production complete: July 7, 2008 Delivered: August 5, 2008
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01-20-2009, 08:49 PM	#10
AlBel1214 Major 52 Rep 1,118 Posts Drives: past 135i, now c6, future M3?? Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Philly iTrader: (0)	Fair review... personally when I made this decision there was no way in hell I was going to get the 128i.. In my book it was either a brand new 328i coupe or the 135i (around the same in price with the options I wanted)... I just couldn't pass on the power...and if I did settle for the N/A v6 then I would of wanted something bigger... __________________ -----LS3 C6----- *z51 suspension,* *NPP dual mode exhaust(wild2mild),20% tint,* zr1 replica wheels, gloss black fender stripes** R.I.P SGM 135i w/ some mods
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01-20-2009, 09:07 PM	#11
Rawhide Captain 364 Rep 794 Posts Drives: 2022 M340ix Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: USA, KC iTrader: (0)	I've driven both and they're both great cars. This is an internet forum that attracts enthusiasts so of course the higher performance of the two is preferred, which is totally understandable. There are people reading this that actually go to the track on a regular basis - this is unheard of in my circle of friends and associates. Out in the real world, my 128 has more punch than 85-90% of the vehicles sharing the road with me, and still gets loads of looks and compliments. For me a 135 would have been extra money up front and ongoing (insurance and gas) for something I couldn't even quantify with my driving habits and lifestyle. Personally, the only thing the 135 has I would like my 128 to have is the cosmetic stuff - rear spoiler and maybe the bumper if I could keep my fogs. I will say I don't care for the stock wheels my 128 came with - but that will be remedied this spring. P.S. I have black Boston leather with gray poplar and while it is dark, it's also very subtle and somehow seems more classy than some other color combos.
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01-20-2009, 09:08 PM	#12
AlienDNA Second Lieutenant 4 Rep 280 Posts Drives: 2008 135i LeMans Blue Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Margaritaville iTrader: (0)	Good comparison - the brakes on the 135 and the M-sport wheel are actually 2 of the main reasons I decided to go with one over the 128. But my question is, what did you do to piss off the dealership? Giving you a 300hp car with summer tires in Ohio in winter, they must be trying to kill you. :wink: __________________ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 2008 135i Performance suspension, exhaust, grilles, front bumper, skirts, shift kit, spoiler. M3 front control arms, rear subframe bushings. Cobb'd.
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01-20-2009, 09:20 PM	#13
x97Melbourne Molar World 47 Rep 916 Posts Drives: 2016 435i Coupe Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Florida iTrader: (0)	good read. i see what you mean about the 128i being more of a daily driver....because you're right, few of us (myself included) can use the power of the 135i. the power of the 135i is amazing....but how often can anyone really redline the thing in any gear except 1 and 2??? I, sadly, didn't drive a manual 128i before ordering my car. i only had the opportunity to drive a 128i automatic (super LAME)...to this day, i dont' know if i didn't like the 128i, or just the automatic. i do wish i at least had the opportunity to drive the 128i manual.... if i had, i may have a 128i parked outside instead of the 135i. looks like you made the right decision, enjoy your car. __________________ Current: 2016 435i Coupe Previous: 2014 335i Sedan; 2013 328i Cv, 2011 335i Sedan Gone But Not Forgotten: 2008 135i Convertible (my favorite)
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01-20-2009, 09:24 PM	#14
ulrichd Colonel 210 Rep 2,233 Posts Drives: 128i M-Sport Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Houston, TX iTrader: (6)	I used to own a 00 M-Coupe and would agree that ultra high performance cars can be downright boring in day to day driving. I also own a 6-speed 128 and it's just perfect.
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01-20-2009, 09:35 PM	#16
jmunro First Lieutenant 7 Rep 348 Posts Drives: X6 Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Duluth, MN iTrader: (0)	dont lie, you want to bend the 135 over because it's so damn sexy and you know it will give you a run for your money hehehe...
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01-20-2009, 09:44 PM	#19
Robert Major General 417 Rep 6,968 Posts Drives: 135i -> is350 -> Tesla M3 perf Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Socal iTrader: (1)	I have the same sentiments coming from a 135i driver. On weekends I wish there's more power in my 135i but on weekdays I prefer my civic in LA traffic. During the 100 mile commute everyday I often arrive at the same location at the same time as the 300hp+ sports car. __________________ - There's nothing in my pocket other than knives and lint
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01-20-2009, 10:21 PM	#20
warmtoes Lieutenant Colonel 31 Rep 1,917 Posts Drives: EBII 435i xDrive Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Vancouver iTrader: (1)	I think you wrote a fair and balanced review. We all like different things for different reasons. I opted for the 135 because I just wanted to be able to unleash that power when I wanted/needed it. But, in normal everyday driving, you can't use it as you noted. If all there was, was a 128i I probably would have still bought the 1 series. But, since there was the N54 version, I just had to have it. __________________ *2014 EBII 435i xDrive M-sport* Gone: 2011 TiAg F25 X3 xDrive35i M-sport Gone: 2008 TiAg w/Coral Red E88 135i Cab M-sport
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01-20-2009, 10:45 PM	#21
Gogud Private 15 Rep 86 Posts Drives: Join Date: Oct 2008 iTrader: (0)	I didn't drive a 128. I know I would like it. I owned 2 6cyl BMWs and liked both very much, but always wished for more power. The way the 135 with steptronic effortlessly moves through traffic with only a slight feed of throttle is immensly gratifying. It is not a frenetic racer if you take it easy. It feels like a big V8 when cruising and screams like an M when you floor it. I considered buying a used e46 M3 instead, but my wife wanted the 135. Although mods to close the gap in handling between the M3 and stock 135 are costing plenty, I am glad to have the 135. The only down sides are the mileage and purchase price. If these are not a major problem for you and you STILL prefer the 128, you have a screw loose!
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01-20-2009, 11:06 PM	#22
boxerdog Private First Class 11 Rep 117 Posts Drives: Black Saphire 135i Spt & Prem Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Minneapolis iTrader: (0)	I have the paddles on mine and I have to admit that the first few days I was also confuse on how to use them. I seem to always do the wrong thing. I'm a MT type of person by preference and experience but I got an amazing deal on this one and I settle for it. Today, I was using the paddles again and after a few seconds I realize that they are not as bad as I thought. It's actually very nice, fast and easy to use. Initially I had to keep looking at the RPNs to see how I was doing but after a wile, I was just listening and feeling the engine like I do when I'm driving a MT. beleave me, it does feel like you are in control and it's a ton of fun... Like everything else, it takes a few tries to get comfortable with something new. I'm sure if you drove it long enough, you may actually like it... 3. I'm thrilled I didn't buy the VW R32. It was a top contender for me, but I worried I'd end up hating the DSG and its silly paddle shifters. The 135 had Steptronic + paddles, and I loathed it. I don't like autos anyway, but OMG do I hate the paddles more. I don't know if it's because I never really got used to them, but they always seem to be in the wrong place. Perhaps they shouldn't move with the wheel? If you do get steptronic, I'd probably skip the $100 paddle option at the very least.
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