Next year, BMW will phase out the 135is coupe which will be replaced by the new 2 Series family and most likely by an M235i …
Next year, BMW will phase out the 135is coupe which will be replaced by the new 2 Series family and most likely by an M235i model.
The super sport version of the 1 Series Coupe, dubbed BMW 135is, currently sits above the 135i model, but still below the almighty 1M. Using the same engine as the 135i, the “is” model has been tuned to 320 hp (+20 hp increase) and 317 lb-ft of torque (+17 lb.ft) while maintaining the same emissions level and MPG ratings of the 135i.
Other upgrades to the tight and compact 1 Series Coupe is a new performance exhaust system and an upgraded engine cooling system that adds a larger, and more powerful radiator fan and an auxiliary radiator.
The BMW 135is models, coupe and convertible, are offered with either a standard 6-Speed manual transmission or an optional 7-Speed Double Clutch Transmission.
To some, the BMW 135is has been and still is one of the most fun, yet underrated models in the now vast BMW lineup. Its sportiness and agility makes it an interesting track car and a great commuter, and some owners, and not only, see the 135is being “The Last Of The Classic Bimmers.”
Detroit News spent some time with the car before declaring that the 135is is a modern classic bimmer.
The light, little 3,300-pound 135is coupe I drove around Detroit carries on in the exciting way BMW’s new 3 Series sedans and soon-to-arrive 4 Series coupes and convertibles are leaving behind. The 1 Series also comes as a convertible.
The TwinPower turbocharged 320-horsepower in-line six cylinder engine responds to throttle inputs without hesitation. The clutch and short-throw shift lever worked in perfect concert with the aggressively geared six-speed manual transmission. The optional transmissions include an eight-speed automatic and an automated seven-speed dual clutch.
BMW pulled the plug last year on the even sportier 1 Series M version. Fewer than 800 of the 340-horsepower pocket rockets were sold in North America. The 135is was introduced this year as its top performance replacement.
So should you buy one? Same online magazine says:
And special is what you are looking for when you buy the BMW badge. You can get a larger and more luxurious Cadillac ATS with an equally powerful engine for about $10,000 less. How about an even larger Chevrolet Camaro with more V-6 horsepower and better fuel economy for about $20,000 less?
But if you want to be seen arriving in a Bimmer, the modern classic is a 135is.
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