Enjoying the 128i

[UpstateNYBMW]

Been visiting this site for a month or so, after seeing the 1 Series in magazines, than at the dealer. Not easy finding a “minimalist” 128i that I was looking for, but Keeler Motors in Albany, NY came through for me. Great experience all the way, and a very good price. Sold my 03 330xi on Saturday, visited the dealer right after to see the 128i, even though delivery wasn’t till Monday evening. The car looked great, and as a bonus, the local Patroon BMW Car Club was holding their annual concours event, with some classic BMW’s including some great 2002’s right in the showroom next to the 1 Series. Great show and a good look at the tradition of great BMW’s.
Monday evening finally came, the car was absolutely gleaming, and all the paperwork went quickly and professionally. Finally a last handshake with the sales team and it was time to head home. After a couple of days and about 200 miles, my impressions are all good, and the car is a thrill. Lots of good comments from co-workers, passers-by, and definitely glad I followed my wife’s advice to go with the Jet Black.
Even as I’m careful during break-in, the 128i is plenty quick, well-balanced, and fun to drive. I look forward to autocross later this summer! Definitely quicker than my old 330xi, and more agile than my former Mustang Bullitt. Not as “big” as the new 3 Series, with a distinctive look, and smooth economical cruising capability, it’s exactly the car I was looking for! Thanks, BMW!

[subscience]

Congrats! I love Jet Black but keeping it clean is definitely a full time job.

[04Enthusiast]

I also bought a “minimalist” 128i. My wife would always say, buy any car you want but make sure it has heated seats, and that's the only option I have.

I went from a 2006 Acura TL with NAV that had every feature you could imagine to a “minimalist” 128i and I have no regrets.

My only wish for the Acura was a manual transmission and rear wheel drive. I was willing to trade all the toys for a 1-series with 6-speed manual and rear wheel drive.

Good luck on keeping your RPM's below 4000 during the first 1200 miles.

[runNgun]

Congratulations! Definitely post a review when you start autocrossing. I really wish there were more 128 reviews posted. It seems everyone who stuck with just the minimum are doing just fine with no regrets. I think it shows BMW designed a great product and new costumers to the brand will get the core experience that we have fallen in love with.

Happy driving!

[shadpuff]

I also got a stripper 128i. Only option was Savanna Beige interior and Cashmere Silver paint. European Delivery on June 23rd, I can't wait!

[Perfect128]

I stayed pretty slim with sport, step, and Xenons and couldn't be happier! The discipline to keep the "luxo" options to a minimum really make the 128i the sleeper deal of the BMW line.

[1Ronnie]

Not I, I love fruit in my car, so I went with Premium, Comfort Access, and Performance Audio. It's all about enjoying being in the car for me.

[hector]

Originally Posted by Perfect128

I stayed pretty slim with sport, step, and Xenons and couldn't be happier! The discipline to keep the "luxo" options to a minimum really make the 128i the sleeper deal of the BMW line.

ditto: sport, heated seats and that's it; msrp $31,225. no 40k 128 for me.

aw, black 'ette, high gloss black trim, manual tranny, sp, heated seats.

[BMW Dreamer]

Congrats, happy for you. I have also considered the 128i over the 135i due to being more relaible and alot less for about the same car.