Especificaciones y análisis del BMW Serie 1
Power
129HP
Torque
180Nm
Consumption
7.8l/100
Emissions
188g/km
0-100 km/h
10.1s
Top Speed
204km/h
Weight
1335kg
Price
29,078€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Automático 6v
RWD
5 / 5 doors
330 L
50 L
95 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the BMW 118i Aut. · 129 CV (2004-2007)
General description
The 2004 BMW 1 Series, in its 118i Aut. version, marked a milestone as the Bavarian brand's first compact car with rear-wheel drive. With a 129 hp gasoline engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, this model promised a unique driving experience in its segment, combining the agility of a compact with BMW's characteristic dynamism. Its launch price was around 29,078 euros, positioning it as a premium option in the market.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel of the BMW 118i Aut., the feeling of control and sportiness is palpable. The rear-wheel drive offers agile and fun handling, especially in curves, where the car feels planted and precise. The 129 hp engine, although not the most powerful in the range, delivers its power linearly and progressively, allowing for 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 10.1 seconds and a top speed of 204 km/h. The 6-speed automatic transmission operates smoothly and quickly, contributing to a pleasant driving experience both in the city and on the highway. The suspension, McPherson type at the front and deformable parallelogram at the rear, filters out road irregularities well without compromising stability, offering a balance between comfort and dynamism. It is a car that invites you to drive, to feel the road, and to enjoy every journey.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the 2004 BMW 1 Series is unmistakably BMW, with lines that evoke sportiness and elegance. Its 5-door body, with a length of 4227 mm, a width of 1751 mm, and a height of 1430 mm, gives it a compact yet robust presence. The front is characterized by the iconic BMW kidney grilles and sharp headlights that give it a determined look. The side line is fluid and dynamic, with a high waistline that accentuates its sporty character. The rear, with its L-shaped taillights, completes a harmonious and attractive package. Despite its compact size, the interior design is well resolved, offering a functional and ergonomic cabin, although space in the rear seats may be somewhat tight for tall adults. The trunk, with 330 liters of capacity, is sufficient for daily use.
Technology and features
In terms of technology, the 2004 BMW 118i Aut. incorporated advanced solutions for its time. Its 1995 cc gasoline engine, with 4 cylinders and 4 valves per cylinder, used indirect injection and an aluminum block and cylinder head, which contributed to a contained weight and good efficiency. The 6-speed automatic transmission was a highlight, offering smooth and precise operation. In terms of safety, it featured 284 mm ventilated disc brakes on the front axle and 280 mm discs on the rear, ensuring effective braking. The rack-and-pinion steering provided direct and communicative feedback. Although it lacked some of the driving aids that we now consider standard, its focus on mechanical engineering and the quality of its components made it a technologically advanced car for its segment and year.
Competition
In the competitive premium compact segment, the 2004 BMW 118i Aut. faced tough rivals such as the Audi A3 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sportcoupé. The Audi A3, with its front-wheel drive or quattro all-wheel drive, offered an alternative more focused on versatility and comfort, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sportcoupé opted for a more elegant design and greater refinement. However, the BMW 1 Series stood out from its competitors thanks to its rear-wheel drive configuration, which gave it a sporty character and unparalleled driving dynamics in its category. This feature made it the preferred choice for those seeking a more exciting and connected driving experience.
Conclusion
The 2004 BMW 118i Aut. is a car that, despite its age, still maintains its appeal. Its combination of an elegant and sporty design, an efficient engine, and exceptional driving dynamics thanks to its rear-wheel drive, make it a very interesting option for driving enthusiasts. It is a car that offers sensations, that invites you to enjoy every kilometer and that, despite some interior space limitations, more than meets the expectations of a premium compact. Its reliability, backed by BMW's reputation, makes it a sensible purchase for those looking for a car with character and quality.