BMW launched the 1 Series in 2004 as a compact car available in multiple configurations: coupe, convertible, and hatchback. This compact vehicle had various traits of a BMW, including high-quality engines, driving pleasure, and new high-quality features. Over the years, BMW equipped the first-generation 1 Series with various powertrains, ranging from 1.6 to 3.0 liters. Among the notable versions were the 128i and 130i models, which featured the 3.0-liter N52 inline-six engine.
In the 128i, this engine produced 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. The 130i was more powerful, producing 262 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. Both models could be equipped with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, powering the rear wheels. The 130i was the quicker of the two models, boasting a 155-mph top speed and a zero-to-62-mph run of 6.0 seconds or 6.2 seconds with the manual or automatic transmission, respectively.
BMW also offered a more powerful first-generation 1 Series, the 135i, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six. While this wasn’t the N52 engine, it produced the most performance (300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque), allowing the 135i to dash from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 149 mph with the optional Sport package.
