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Old 03-22-2008, 02:42 PM   #10 (permalink)
big swede
6.2 Liter LS9 Supercharged V8
 
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Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: Midwest
Drives: 07' Monte Carlo SS
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Re: LA TIMES: BMW 1-series can fly; too bad it's heavy and ugly

Quote:
Originally Posted by goblue View Post
Actually - I think he called it dead on. I could do without the hyperbole and cliches, but basically the 1 series is a slightly smaller, just as expensive, slightly faster, and much less attractive version of the 3 series - without its fantastic hardtop convertible. Thats how he called it - couldn't agree more.

BMW had real opportunity here. Use that fantastic motor in a lighter, tighter vehicle, and they could have built a refined, comfortable lotus. Instead we get a 3 series that spent a few seconds in a car crusher.

Thats what Neil is getting at - lost opportunity, and its refreshing to see that vitriol aimed at something not wearing a domestic badge.
I agree 100%. BMW had a great oppourtunity to really make a desireable small car available at a time when people are thinking about the next smaller vehicle. Instead they ended up with a car that is uglier, has less options (hardtop coupe) and is nearly as expensive. Worst of all is marginally lighter than the 3 series. Unless you run track events where the couple hundred extra pounds might be important I can't see why you would choose the 1 over the 3. It's not like the 3 is some poor handling barge, it's a world class performer.
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