01 Jul 07
Just days before the powerful and expensive new V8-engined M3 hits the road, BMW has unveiled an entirely new coupe that's smaller and more affordable, but which promises much of the same driver-focused appeal.
The 1-Series coupe, which goes on sale on 24 November, is derived from the 1-Series hatchback, which arrived as a five-door in 2004 and gained a three-door version earlier this year. But under the largely familiar skin, it's been re-engineered from the ground up.
Three engines, two transmissions and two specification levels will be available in the rear-wheel-drive, 2+2-seat coupe. Priced from around £22,000, it's a premium, aspirational, sporting product. And on paper at least, it should be a cracker.
It's not just a 1-Series hatchback with a new back end. Although there are many shared components, it has new brakes, a new steering system, new five-arm rear axle and - on the 123d and 135i - a new electronically controlled differential lock to control spin and aid traction during rapid driving.
Despite the many changes to the bodywork and chassis, it retains the 50:50 front-rear weight distribution that BMW regards as being so important to its cars' beautifully balanced handling.
