Anyone else get this in email ?
http://bbc-magazines.msgfocus.com/files/amf_bbc_magazines/project_6/topgear_imgs/28_June_2007/newsletter_main_template.jpg (http://topgear.msgfocus.com/c/19PlIqFb3HJDBfPt)

You weren't meant to find out about this one until next week, but we got a sniff of BMW's new 1-Series Coupe (http://topgear.msgfocus.com/c/19PlVmdZaMxtX9PS) a bit earlier than we should and thought you'd want to hear about it.

Not only have the boys from Bavaria put a proper back end on their little 1, they've also done the decent thing and given it an engine it deserves: the twin-turbo, 306bhp straight-six (http://topgear.msgfocus.com/c/19Pm8hMNhRlkj3Qh) from the 335i.

And that means the range-topping 135i will hit 60mph in a fraction over five seconds (http://topgear.msgfocus.com/c/19Pmy8Upw0X10RR5), and likely give its big brother M3 a run for its money.

That M-tag is a tasty prospect, too: check out our news story (http://topgear.msgfocus.com/c/19PmL4tdD5KRmLRu) and tell us you don't like the idea of an lightweight, loony little M1. You'll have to tell BMW too, though, as they are steadfastly refusing to build it. Boo.

http://www.topgear.com/content/news/stories/1988/?mainp

The 135i is gonna be wicked. I want one now...

That car looks so awesome from behind, jesusss like a mini CSL style trunk :redspot

Cool. I wonder if it will get the SMG Tranny? Bad little car either way.

300Hp in a small 2 door like that jeesus!

>>And that means the range-topping 135i will hit 60mph in a fraction over five seconds, and likely give its big brother M3 a run for its money.<<

Actually, its going to be considerably better than that! Recall.. the 335i is quoted by bmw as running 0-60 in 5.4 sec, but the best car mag measured it in 4.8 sec, with the avg car mag review showing ~5.0 sec.. So, lets be conservative and assume that bmw is being about .4 sec conservative on their 0-60 rating.. Now, for the 135i, bmw quotes 5.3 sec for 0-62. This equates to approx. 4.9 sec 0-60. But, we just determined that BMW is about .4 sec conservative when compared to USA magazine testing.. All of this means Id look for a 0-60 time of approximately 4.6 seconds. Remember, its a few hundred lbs lighter than the 335i.

And let's not forget to add in an ECU reflash and free-flow exhaust for:redspot maybe 4.2??

And let's not forget to add in an ECU reflash and free-flow exhaust for:redspot maybe 4.2??

Well one thing I'm NOT going to want to do is sacrifice the warranty. Are there going to be performance mods out there that don't void it?

I know I won't be able to stop myself, so that is just as much a reason to get the 128i... I'll end up blowing up the 135...

Well one thing I'm NOT going to want to do is sacrifice the warranty. Are there going to be performance mods out there that don't void it?

The E90 guys are getting really good results with this: http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=689704

The best part is that it's plug and play. You can just take it out before you head to the dealer. The Procede is putting down better numbers on the dyno, but it's a little more involved than plugging it in between a sensor. Still install time for the Procede is 30 minutes and is completely reversible. Something like this that is easily removable should avoid any dealership hassle. That or switch dealerships and get a nice Service Adviser who doesn't care.

Called my dealer (who also sponsors me in SCCA Solo racing) and I'm first on their 135i list. Think I'll take a European Delivery Plan on it. Aah, France and Italy in the Spring.

Sounds like the car I've been waiting for.