Inspired by the iconic model from almost 40 years ago, the BMW 1 Series coupe represents the core BMW philosophy of pure performance and premium design. Combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the two-door 1 Series coupe will go on sale in the spring of 2008. It offers the sporty-minded driver an affordable car for sheer driving pleasure.

The BMW 1 Series coupe will be available in two versions the 128i and the 135i. The 128i coupe is powered by a 3.0-liter, 230-horsepower, inline six-cylinder engine that generates 200 pound-feet of torque; and features valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium construction. The powerful 135i coupe is equipped with BMW's twin turbo-charged 3.0-liter, inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 pound-feet of torque. Performance and fuel economy is achieved through direct Piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling. Electronic wizardry highlights the 1 Series, which has anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, cornering brake control, dynamic traction control and dynamic stability control. Massive brakes use six-piston calipers in the front and twin-piston calipers in the rear. The BMW 135i displays exemplary steering, cornering and braking performance to match the robust acceleration of the engine.

The BMW 1 Series coupe is a fairly sharp-looking, compact machine with rear-wheel drive. The new coupe combines unique design elements with a long hood, short overhangs, long wheelbase, large frameless doors and a striking roofline. Aggressive rear-end styling and an integrated rear spoiler highlight the short rear section. The car resembles a scaled down version of the 3 Series, albeit with a snub rear and special roofline. The M Aerodynamics Package, which is standard on the 135i, includes huge air intakes (needed to cool the turbocharger) and a strong upper body line that starts at the front fender and streaks backwards to the tail lamps. With new enhanced performance features, the 1 Series will deliver absolute driving pleasure for 'true' drivers, BMW fans and enthusiasts. Inside, the cabin layout is very similar to its more expensive sibling, the BMW 335i. Well-bolstered bucket seats and a tilt-telescoping steering wheel facilitate an ideal driving position for the driver. BMW's famous iDrive system manages the entertainment, optional navigation, vehicle and telephone systems. All 135i coupes have a 60/40-split folding rear seat that increases the cargo capacity to 13 cubic feet. Standard features include power steering, power windows, power locks, cruise control, leatherette upholstery, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD and driving lights.

Safety features that come standard on the BMW 1 series include automatic safety belt pretensioners; Latch in the rear seats; supplemental restraint system (SRS) with dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment and seat sensors; six air bags; anti-lock brakes; electronic stability control; traction control; cornering brake control and launch control (for starting under slippery conditions). The 135i comes with run-flat high-performance tires. Brake lights include a panic-braking mode when the brake pedal is pushed forcefully.