Miniature M3

Since it's debut a few years ago BMW's 1 series has been a hit among frugal buyers of smaller stature. Since it's introduction in 1986, the BMW M3 has set the benchmark in the luxury performance market. But with the 135i, you can have M3 performance and luxury for 20 grand less. This "pocket M3" has nearly identical acceleration figures. 60 comes in only 4.7 seconds and it goes on to beat the M3 by a hair in the quarter mile. Handling is also very similar, the 135 can hold .94g on the skidpad compared to the M3's .96. Many also note that the 135 also has more comfort over bumps and a better overall poise. Both cars offer the same features as well, they even offer the same twin clutch automated manual tranny. The best thing about it is that it is cheaper to buy and cheaper to maintain. When it comes to BMWs, you must follow the simple rule to maintenance costs. The higher the number on the back of the car, the more it's gonna cost to fix. And if there's an M in front of, double that number. So if you do the math, the 135 should be almost half as expensive to service. Bottom line is that the 135i is slightly faster than a 335i and slightly slower than an M3. So one could say that the 135i bridges the gap (performance wise) between the 335 and the M3. But the catch is that its the cheapest of the three.

The Numbers Don't Always Add Up

There is talk that many drivers, such as wrx drivers, are blinded by their cars cult-like following. They are not open to other cars and only look at the stats the numbers. 0-60;quarter mile;slalom;skidpad etc. We are a people of discerning tastes when it comes to cars. Younger buyers, I believe, are attracted to these kinds of numbers. It's all about hanging out in the parking lots of Krispy Kreme's and In and Outs and comparing 0-60 times, skidpad adhesion and slalom speeds based on the numbers given to them by MT,CD,RT. WRX drivers could easily convince themselves that their cars are superior based on a sub 5 second 0-60 time or the fact that it has all wheel drive. Mazdaspeed owners could brag about it's .90g skidpad and all the options from leather seats to swiveling xenons and a "micronav" interface. Ralliart drivers could brag about the dual clutch gearbox and...thats about it. But my point is everyone has a reason for buying a car. Many cars in this price range have fanboy cult followings.The true enthusiast makes his choice based on his experience in knowing that it is not about the bragadocious numbers but the feel/soul of the car. See MT's article by Arthur st. antoine.