02 Mar 05
Alongside the new 3- and 7-Series sat the hot version of the 1-Series. The 130i is fitted with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder, 258bhp/221lb ft engine, a lighter-weight version unit used in the 630i and 330i. The rear-wheel drive 130i is said to be capable of 155mph and 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds, yet still return 31.4mpg. BMW also points to "near perfect 50:50 weight distribution", and says that the 130i is quicker than cars including the Alfa 147 GTA; it'll also out-run the Honda Civic Type-R and the new Golf GTI apparently. Six-speed manual transmission is standard, and the 130i can be distinguished by chromed grille slats, 17-inch alloys and offset twin chrome tailpipes. It will come with sports seats, six airbags and a single-slot CD player, and Active Steering is optional.
