The 2008 BMW 1 Series, particularly the 128i, represents BMW's entry into the compact car market. Available as a coupe or convertible, it offered a taste of BMW's signature driving dynamics in a smaller package. The 1 Series was available from 2008 to 2013 in the US. Key trims included the 128i and the more powerful 135i. New, the 128i ranged from approximately $28,000 to $35,000 depending on options. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced handling made it a popular choice for driving enthusiasts.
The Good
The 2008 BMW 1 Series offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Its responsive handling and potent engine provide an engaging driving experience (emotional). The comfortable interior and decent fuel economy (for its class) appeal to practical buyers. While not the most spacious, its sporty design and premium feel add to its appeal. It's a good value for those seeking a fun-to-drive and relatively affordable BMW.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2008 BMW 1 Series include somewhat cramped rear seats, especially in the coupe. Reliability can be a concern, particularly with certain components like the electric water pump and oil leaks. Repair costs can be higher than average due to it being a BMW. Also, the stock suspension can feel a bit harsh on rough roads.
2008 BMW 1 Series: Quick Overview
Key specifications for the 2008 BMW 1 Series (128i):
- Engine Options: Only one engine option for the 128i: 3.0-liter inline-6 cylinder.
- Horsepower: The 3.0-liter inline-6 produces 230 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- Manual Transmission: Approximately 18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- Automatic Transmission: Approximately 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times:
- Manual Transmission: Around 6.1 seconds.
- Automatic Transmission: Around 6.7 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
The 128i included standard features such as:
- Automatic climate control
- Power windows and locks
- A premium sound system
- Leatherette upholstery
- Run-flat tires
- Leather upholstery
- A sunroof
- Navigation system
- Heated seats
- Upgraded audio system
- Sport package (sport seats, sport suspension, and unique trim).
2008 BMW 1 Series Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | 1-Series |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Subcompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | REGENSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3494 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4398 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3 6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,100 |
| Invoice Price | $30,450 |
| Delivery Charges | $825 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 BMW 1 Series Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2008 BMW 1 Series, specifically the 128i, often revolve around the N52 engine. Common issues include oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket. The electric water pump is another known failure point, potentially leading to overheating if not addressed promptly. Some owners have reported issues with the VANOS system (variable valve timing), which can affect engine performance.
Recalls for the 2008 model year may have been issued for various safety-related concerns. It's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for specific recall information related to the VIN of any prospective purchase.
Long-term reliability concerns often stem from the aging of rubber and plastic components. This can lead to issues with coolant hoses, vacuum lines, and other seals. The condition of the suspension components should also be inspected, as bushings and shocks may wear out over time. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are essential for maximizing the lifespan of a 2008 BMW 1 Series. The issues are fairly consistent across the 2008-2013 model years.
Recalls for the 2008 model year may have been issued for various safety-related concerns. It's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for specific recall information related to the VIN of any prospective purchase.
Long-term reliability concerns often stem from the aging of rubber and plastic components. This can lead to issues with coolant hoses, vacuum lines, and other seals. The condition of the suspension components should also be inspected, as bushings and shocks may wear out over time. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are essential for maximizing the lifespan of a 2008 BMW 1 Series. The issues are fairly consistent across the 2008-2013 model years.
How long will the 2008 BMW 1 Series last?
A well-maintained 2008 BMW 1 Series 128i can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Proper maintenance habits, including regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs, are crucial for longevity. Based on owner data, with average maintenance, a 2008 model could still provide several years of service. Long-term durability weaknesses include potential issues with the cooling system (water pump, thermostat), oil leaks, and wear and tear on suspension components. Neglecting these issues can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Rust can also be a factor in colder climates.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 BMW 1 Series offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Built-in tech included a standard AM/FM radio with a CD player, auxiliary input, and available Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls. The optional navigation system featured a small display screen integrated into the dashboard.
Entertainment features were relatively basic, with the focus primarily on driving experience. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards, with standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, and traction control. Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for both coupe and convertible models.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific scores. Generally, the 2008 1 Series performed well in crash tests, offering good occupant protection. However, it's essential to review the official reports for detailed information and any potential vulnerabilities. It's important to note that technology has drastically improved since 2008.
Entertainment features were relatively basic, with the focus primarily on driving experience. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards, with standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, and traction control. Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for both coupe and convertible models.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific scores. Generally, the 2008 1 Series performed well in crash tests, offering good occupant protection. However, it's essential to review the official reports for detailed information and any potential vulnerabilities. It's important to note that technology has drastically improved since 2008.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alpine White
Black Sapphire Metallic
Crimson Red
Space Gray Metallic
Titanium Silver Metallic
Deep Green Metallic
Atlantic Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Lemon Leather
Black Leather
Gray Leather
2008 BMW 1 Series Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2008 BMW 1 Series 128i had a base price ranging from around $28,000 to $35,000, depending on the body style (coupe or convertible) and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
Depreciation has been significant due to age and mileage. Factors affecting resale value include the car's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options (e.g., sport package, navigation). A well-maintained example with low mileage will command a higher price. The overall demand for small, sporty coupes and convertibles also influences resale value.
Depreciation has been significant due to age and mileage. Factors affecting resale value include the car's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options (e.g., sport package, navigation). A well-maintained example with low mileage will command a higher price. The overall demand for small, sporty coupes and convertibles also influences resale value.
2008 BMW 1 Series Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2008 BMW 1 Series can be moderately costly. Insurance rates may be higher than average due to it being a BMW. Fuel costs are reasonable, but premium fuel is recommended. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant, especially if work is performed at a BMW dealership. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting repairs can lead to more expensive problems down the road. Overall, it's not the most economical vehicle to own, particularly compared to non-luxury compacts.
2008 BMW 1 Series Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
14 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
28 miles/gallon
2008 BMW 1 Series Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2008 BMW 1 Series Recalls & Defects
Electrical System
Recall date
2013-02-07
Recall no.
13v044000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 1-Series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured December 2007 Through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sedans Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sports Wagons Manufactured March 2007 Through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 Vehicles Manufactured March 2009 Through June 2011. IN February 2013, BMW Recalled 504,545 Vehicles. IN July 2013, BMW Informed THE Agency That IT WAS Adding 1-series, 3-series, and Z4 Vehicles, Representing AN Additional 12,094 Vehicles. THE Total Number OF Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 516,791. THE Connector FOR THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and THE Corresponding Terminal ON THE Fuse BOX MAY Degrade Over Time. Over Time, THE High Current Flow and Heat From Electrical Resistance MAY Lead TO A Breakage OF THE Connection, and A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle.
Consequence
IF There IS A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle, THE Vehicle MAY Unexpectedly Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and Secure IT With AN Improved Method, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 13, 2013. Owners MAY Call BMW AT 1-800-525-7417 or Email BMW AT [email protected].
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery:cables
Recall date
2013-02-07
Recall no.
13v044000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 1-Series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured December 2007 Through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sedans Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sports Wagons Manufactured March 2007 Through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 Vehicles Manufactured March 2009 Through June 2011. IN February 2013, BMW Recalled 504,545 Vehicles. IN July 2013, BMW Informed THE Agency That IT WAS Adding 1-series, 3-series, and Z4 Vehicles, Representing AN Additional 12,094 Vehicles. THE Total Number OF Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 516,791. THE Connector FOR THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and THE Corresponding Terminal ON THE Fuse BOX MAY Degrade Over Time. Over Time, THE High Current Flow and Heat From Electrical Resistance MAY Lead TO A Breakage OF THE Connection, and A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle.
Consequence
IF There IS A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle, THE Vehicle MAY Unexpectedly Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and Secure IT With AN Improved Method, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 13, 2013. Owners MAY Call BMW AT 1-800-525-7417 or Email BMW AT [email protected].
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses and Circuit Breakers
Recall date
2013-02-07
Recall no.
13v044000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 1-Series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured December 2007 Through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-series Coupes and Convertibles Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sedans Manufactured March 2007 Through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-series Sports Wagons Manufactured March 2007 Through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 Vehicles Manufactured March 2009 Through June 2011. IN February 2013, BMW Recalled 504,545 Vehicles. IN July 2013, BMW Informed THE Agency That IT WAS Adding 1-series, 3-series, and Z4 Vehicles, Representing AN Additional 12,094 Vehicles. THE Total Number OF Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 516,791. THE Connector FOR THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and THE Corresponding Terminal ON THE Fuse BOX MAY Degrade Over Time. Over Time, THE High Current Flow and Heat From Electrical Resistance MAY Lead TO A Breakage OF THE Connection, and A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle.
Consequence
IF There IS A Loss OF Electrical Power TO THE Vehicle, THE Vehicle MAY Unexpectedly Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Positive Battery Cable Connector and Secure IT With AN Improved Method, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 13, 2013. Owners MAY Call BMW AT 1-800-525-7417 or Email BMW AT [email protected].
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-02-05
Recall no.
16v071000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2013 128i and 135i Coupes and Convertibles and 1 Series M Coupes, 2006-2011 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i Xdrive Sedans, 2009-2011 335d Sedans, 2006-2012 325xit, 328i and 328xi Sports Wagons, 2007-2013 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 335i, 335xi, 335i Xdrive, 335is and M3 Coupes and Convertibles, 2013-2015 X1 Sdrive28i, X1 Xdrive28i and X1 Xdrive35i Savs, 2007-2010 X3 Xdrive30i Savs, 2007-2013 X5 Xdrive30i, X5 Xdrive35i, X5 Xdrive48i, X5 Xdrive50i and X5 M Savs, 2009-2013 BMW X5 Xdrive35d Savs, 2008-2014 X6 Xdrive35i, X6 Xdrive50i, and X6 M Sacs, 2010-2011 BMW X6 Xdrive50i Sacs and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan Vehicles. Upon Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Module or Inflator Depending ON THE Vehicle Model, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 9, 2018. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:crankcase (Pcv)
Recall date
2017-10-30
Recall no.
17v683000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 Xdrive30i, X5 Xdrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 Sdrive30i Vehicles. THE Heater FOR THE Positive Crankcase Ventilation (Pcv) Valve MAY Short Circuit.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short CAN Cause THE Parts Within THE PCV Valve TO Melt, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire, Even When THE Vehicle IS NOT IN Use.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE PCV Valve Heater, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Were Mailed ON November 27, 2017. Owners Will Receive A Second Notification BY THE END OF October 2018. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:wiring
Recall date
2019-08-06
Recall no.
19v579000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2012 BMW 128i, 135i, 135is Coupes and 128i, 135i Convertible Vehicles. THE Wiring and Electrical Connectors IN THE Blower-Regulator Wiring Harness MAY Overheat.
Consequence
Wiring That Overheats Could Cause THE Electrical Connectors TO Melt, and Increase THE Risk OF A Fire, Even When THE Vehicle IS Unattended.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Blower-Regulator Wiring Harness, and Replace IT With A NEW Part, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 4, 2019. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF AN Earlier Recall Number 17v-676.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2020-01-15
Recall no.
20v017000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 Xdrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 Sdrive28i, X1 Xdrive28i and X1 Xdrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i Xdrive, 335i, 335is, 335i Xdrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i Xdrive and M3, 2009-2011 335d, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i Xdrive, 2010-2011 X6 Activehybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 Xdrive30i, X5 Xdrive35i, X5 48i, X5 Xdrive48i, X5 Xdrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 Xdrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 Xdrive35i, X6 Xdrive50i and X6M Vehicles Equipped With Non-desiccated Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Containing Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (Psan) That Were Used AS Interim Remedy Parts FOR Previous Takata Recalls. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver AIR Bag. ON X5 and X6 Vehicles, Only THE Inflator Will BE Replaced. All Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 11, 2020. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:crankcase (Pcv)
Recall date
2022-03-02
Recall no.
22v119000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 Xdrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i Xdrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i Xdrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 Xdrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 Sdrive30i) Vehicles. THE Heater FOR THE Positive Crankcase Ventilation (pcv) Valve MAY Short Circuit.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short CAN Cause THE PCV Valve Heater TO Overheat, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire While Driving OR, Soon After Driving When Parked.
Remedy
This Recall Supersedes and Expands Previous Nhtsa Recalls 17v-683 and 19v-273. Dealers Will Install AN Electrical Wiring Harness With Fuse Protection FOR THE PCV Valve Heater IN Potentially Affected Vehicles, Free OF Charge. This Recall Supersedes and Expands Previous Nhtsa Recalls 17v-683 and 19v-273. Vehicles Previously Repaired Under THE Prior Recalls Will Need TO Come Back FOR THE NEW Recall Remedy. THE Remedy IS Currently Being Developed. Interim Owner Notification Letters Informing Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON April 1, 2022. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON July 22, 2022. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2008 BMW 1 Series Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 BMW 1 Series is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 BMW 1 Series Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2008 BMW 1 Series competed with cars like the Audi A3, Volvo C30, and even some higher-trim Mazda3 models. In terms of performance, the 128i offered a more engaging driving experience than most rivals due to its rear-wheel drive and balanced handling. However, the Audi A3 offered a more refined interior and available all-wheel drive.
Regarding features, the 1 Series had a decent selection for its time, but rivals like the A3 could be equipped with more advanced technology. Reliability is where the 1 Series often falls short compared to some competitors, with the Mazda3 being a notably more reliable option.
Price-wise, the 1 Series was generally more expensive than the Mazda3 but comparable to the Audi A3, new. On the used market, the price difference narrows, making alternatives more appealing based on individual priorities. Similar alternatives would include the Acura TSX (for reliability and features) or a newer, used Mazda3 (for economy and reliability). If a more premium experience isn't mandatory, these offer better value.
Regarding features, the 1 Series had a decent selection for its time, but rivals like the A3 could be equipped with more advanced technology. Reliability is where the 1 Series often falls short compared to some competitors, with the Mazda3 being a notably more reliable option.
Price-wise, the 1 Series was generally more expensive than the Mazda3 but comparable to the Audi A3, new. On the used market, the price difference narrows, making alternatives more appealing based on individual priorities. Similar alternatives would include the Acura TSX (for reliability and features) or a newer, used Mazda3 (for economy and reliability). If a more premium experience isn't mandatory, these offer better value.
Ranks #142 Coupe
| 1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (4.0★) |
| 8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
| 142 | 2008 BMW 1 Series | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 BMW 1 Series a Good Sedan?
The 2008 BMW 1 Series 128i is ideal for driving enthusiasts who prioritize handling and a sporty driving experience in a compact package. It's worth buying used if you're willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs and carefully inspect the car's condition before purchasing. Look for examples with well-documented maintenance records and avoid those with obvious signs of neglect. A 128i with the sport package can enhance the driving experience. Given its age, buying new is not an option. It's best suited for someone who appreciates the BMW brand and is prepared to invest in its upkeep.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma