Re: BMW's galore
Congrats Mike for the new additions!
I was fortunate enough to own a 1M for 12 months. (thanks to fellow member giving up his build slot to me!).
since some members are interested in the 1M, I will share my limited knowledge as an ex-owner.
it was a wonderful car. great fun to drive, definitely tail happy! more than enough power for the road, and being TT, usable torque everywhere! I prefer it to the M3, mainly cos I like lighter+smaller cars. but M3 engine has much much more character. the 1M engine is, well, nothing special to be honest. runs out of puffs towards the end, and sounds.... well.... ordinary.... but it suits the car well for what it is. and did I say it was FUN to drive?!
I find that u have to drive with the TC half off (or M-Dynanmic Mode ON) all the time, otherwise it's very frustrating as it cuts in ALL the time. with TC fully off, it's tricky in the wets, a bit too much tip-toeing for my liking. I wish there's was a way for the driver to configure it a bit. but i guess it's not what a 1M stands for. It;s a simple hot hatch type car on steroids, back to basics, just get in and drive.
Steering feel was good, (not great compared to a Porsche). but at least it's not as light as most modern BMWs. Dont really like the sports seats. pain in the butt on long trips! not enough padding no shoulder support. the OZ spec has all creature comforts like a fully spec 1-series. the new nav and idrive r excellent.
overall, 8/10 for me. It's certainly a great final hooray for the 1-series and BMW marketing department has done an exceptional job for the 1M. i dont recall another modern BMW that has generated so much hype around the world.
in OZ, it costs the same as a slight used E90 M3 or used 987 Boxster S. for me, I will prob get the Boxster S cos I am a Porsche man at heart. but I have enjoyed every single moment owning and driving the 1M.
Unfortunately, it's not as rare in OZ than in other countries. we have ~ 300 1M delivered. so considering we are such a small market, that's quite a lot. UK has about 450? definitely not as rare as the CSL.
and Mike, I am sorry, only one colour looks good on the 1M!
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BMW 1 M + C63.