BMW 1 Series 120i 2005 Review

Some people think it is stylish while others reckon it has been touched with the "ugly stick".

One thing's for sure, it brings the BMW badge within reach of more buyers, with a starting price of $37,900.

It is interesting to note here that you can get a Mini, also manufactured by BMW, for about the same price.

But the two cars while priced similarly are likely to appeal to different buyers.

The 1 Series comes in two flavours, the 118i and 120i, both with a 2.0-litre four cylinder 16 valve engine.

Our test car was the 120i (the less powerful 118i does not arrive for a few weeks).

The 120i's 2.0-litre engine produces 110kW of power at 6200rpm and 200Nm of torque at 3600rpm, compared to the 118i's 95kW and 180Nm.

Basically, they're the same 2.0-litre engine, just tuned differently.

However, it is difficult to establish exactly how the 120i produces the extra grunt, as both engines feature Double VANOS variable valve timing and VALVETRONIC valve control.

BMW says the engine management systems are different, along with different timing and "possibly" a different manifold.

Some might view this "detuning" as a cynical marketing exercise but it is a route that is already well trodden by Benz.

The good news is that the 1 Series certainly feels and drives like a BMW, with impeccable road manners and rock solid handling.

The 120i can accelerate form 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 217km/h.

While the figures are not breathtaking, the proof with this car is definitely in the pudding because it's a delight to drive.

What sets the 1 Series apart from other hatches is its rear wheel drive configuration.

This eliminates understeer and the torque steer normally associated with front-wheel drive cars.

The engine in our test vehicle was mated to a sporty six-speed manual transmission.

Ignition is via a dash mounted button and you must have your foot on the clutch before the car will start.

It's a bit gimmicky but no big deal.

While the car is no drag racer, mid to high range acceleration is good and the engine likes to rev, peaking quickly as you move through the gears.

In fact, it is easy to forget just what gear you are in and we found ourselves frequenting third and fourth gears – a sure sign the car could do with some extra torque.

There's talk of a more powerful version down the track, but nothing concrete yet.

ABS, stability control and corner brake control are all standard, with an impressive set of brakes.

Fuel consumption for the 120i is rated at 7.4L/100km and the car will run on standard fuel but prefers premium unleaded.

Although it seats five, rear legroom as expected is not fantastic but the hatch has some useable luggage space.

Standard equipment includes a multi-function steering wheel that is reach and height adjustable, climate airconditioning and CD sound system.

The 1 Series scores a maximum five stars for safety, with front airbags, front side airbags and head airbags for front and rear passengers standard.

The BMW 120i is priced from $44,100.