BMW 1 Series 2006 Review

The word is it's going V8 to match similar offerings from Audi and Mercedes- Benz. That's a real shame because M3 has become synonomous with a hyperperformance, naturally aspirated, six cylinder engine.

But there is hope for all the six-pot power hounds out there in the form of the new BMW 130i Sport which offers nearly the same level of performance as the M3, a similar engine note and similar feel - at less than half the price.

It is likely the 130i Sport will cannibalise sales of the M3.

So it's a win for the sporty car purist and probably for BMW which stands to sell plenty of these mightly little rear drive hatch backs.

The 130i Sport aready has impressive credentials as it recently lapped the Nurburgring North Loop, in the hands of a BMW test driver, quicker than the current M3. What does that mean?

It speaks of the dynamic prowess of the 130i, of its rigid chassis, grip through corners, top speed potential, stability, engine torque, accu- rate gearing, braking and much more.

The Nurburgring is tough on cars and drivers.

On top of that, the 130i covers the 0-100km sprint in a respectable 6.0 seconds putting it in a bracket with the likes of FPV and HSV big guns and the Subaru WRX.

Therein lies a question, do you spend $63,000 on something small and good or more on something big and less good?

The 130i runs BMW's new magnesium alloy straight six 3.0-litre engine with 195kW/ 300Nm output.

It's a lot of poke for a small car.

The engine has variable valve timing, called Bi-VANOS in BMW speak, and another system that alters valve lift for gains in power output, fuel economy and emissions reduction.

A six speed close ratio manual feeds power to the rear wheels. No other small hatch has rear wheel drive these days.

No doubt this has something to do with the 130i's perfect 50/50 weight distribution front to rear which in turn contributes to the car's stability and handling.

The 130i Sport has a muscular appearance set off by a set of 17in alloys with wide, low profile tyres, dual exhaust outlets and an athletic squat to the suspension. Minor detail changes also set it apart from the lower spec' 1-Series.

A similar formula is used inside where the 130 has a sportier style complete with metallic fascia inserta. sports seats and wheel and metal pedals in adition to a swag of luxury goodies.

The test vehicle was equipped with M options.

It is an absolute hoot to drive offering superb acceleration and throttle response to the accompaniment of a stirring wail from the exhaust - just like the M3.

Power delivery is flexible with solid response from idle right up to the 7000rpm plus redline.

It's a hare out of the blocks and stays that way throughout the range unlike a turbo car.

The gearchange feels taut and gaps between gear ratrios are small.

Point the 130i at some curves and it's like bees to a honey pot. The car virtually beckons you to fully explore its cornering prowess.

There are some compromises to deal with such as the tight pedal box and small boot. There's no spare as the 130i has run-flat tyres. Hopefully replacements will be readily avail- able throughout the country.

The low roof height can be an issue for taller drivers unless the adjustable seat is fully down.

Adequate room is provided for four inside and a swag of safety equipment includes high tech stuff like ESP and dynamic stability control.