6-Speed Simplicity: 2011 BMW 135i Convertible E88
The BMW 1-series first appeared in 2004 built on the E87 chassis (E88 in convertible), which was a scaled down version of the E90 3-series chassis. The 1-series could best be described as similar to the previous generation 3-series because it kept the signature rear-wheel-drive fun of the 3-series without the ever increasing weight and bloat that seems inevitable in the auto industry. This particular car has not only the coveted single turbo N55 (it kept the same power as the twin-turbo N54 but its reportedly less troublesome) but also a 6-speed manual gearbox to boot. If you are looking for a late model open air car with a small set of back seats, you could do a lot worse. Find this 2011 BMW 135i Convertible offered for $15,988 in San Francisco, CA via craigslist.
From the seller:
2011 bmw 135i convertible
VIN: WBAUN7C59BVM24654
condition: excellent
cylinders: 6 cylinders
drive: rwd
fuel: gas
odometer: 84315
paint color: red
size: compact
title status: clean
transmission: manual
type: convertible
Year : 2011
Make : BMW
Model : 1 Series
Trim : 135i Convertible 2D
Mileage : 84,315 miles
Transmission : Manual
Exterior Color : gray
Interior Color : gray
Series : 135i Convertible 2D Convertible
Drivetrain : RWD
Condition : Excellent
VIN : WBAUN7C59BVM24654
Stock ID : C368
Engine : 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0LDescription of this BMW 1 Series 135i Convertible 2D
new arrival. Manual transmission, 6 Speed stick shift. 300hp 300 ft lb torque
See a better way to drive something cool and cheap? tips@dailyturismo.com
That is an interesting shade of red. The n54 & n55 platforms are pretty interesting in terms of ‘easy/bolt on’ tuning potentials, both have their weak areas of potential concern, especially at these levels of mileage. Still on my short list of potential next cars.
‘Still on my short list of potential next cars’- fixed roof and manual trans that is.
Having had to deal with the Rube Goldberg top on an E36 convertible, I can only imagine how much more gratuitous complexity BMW was able to add over a decade later. I’m with you on the fixed roof element. That convertible top is NOT going to have any simplicity.
Same red as that Honda Beat – http://dailyturismo.com/dragonball-kei-1991-honda-beat/
Like all those red “If this sticker is blue, then you are driving too fast.” Bumper stickers I see over in Livermore?
It appears 1-series are now being recognized as a sum greater than it’s parts.