BMW 1 Series Hatchback 3dr (E81) 116i (122 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW 1 Series:

The BMW 1 Series is a range of subcompact executive cars manufactured by BMW since 2004. It is the successor to the BMW 3 Series Compact and is currently in its fourth generation. Positioned as the entry-level model in BMW range of products, the first generation was produced in hatchback, coupé and convertible body styles.
Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed separately as the 2 Series, therefore the 1 Series range no longer includes these body styles. A four-door sedan model became available for the Chinese market in 2017, using the front-wheel drive platform that is also used the basis for the third-generation 1 Series hatchback....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Hatchback 3dr (E81) Overview:

BMW 1 Series (Hatchback 3dr (E81)). With 185 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.9 l/100km). Weighing only 1265 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.8 s). The top speed reaches 204 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

116i (122 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Adequate for city driving and light duties, but can feel underpowered on highways or with a full load.

Fuel Economy

Offers reasonable fuel economy for a petrol, making it an economical entry point into the 1 Series range.

Best Use Case: Urban commuting, first-time BMW owners, and those prioritizing low running costs over performance.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling dynamics
  • • Wide range of powerful and efficient engines (especially diesels)
  • • Premium interior feel and build quality
  • • Compact size makes it agile and easy to park
  • • Excellent steering feedback

Cons:

  • • Firm ride quality may not suit all preferences
  • • Limited rear passenger and boot space for a hatchback
  • • Known reliability issues with N47 diesel timing chains and N43 petrol injectors/coils
  • • Can be expensive to maintain and service
  • • Interior design can feel a bit dated compared to newer rivals

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible (E88): 2008 - 2011).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:1 Series
Generation:Hatchback 3dr (E81)
Modification (Engine):116i (122 Hp)
Start of production:2009
End of production:2011
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:4
Doors:3
Engine:
Power:122 Hp @ 6000 rpm.
Power per litre:61.2 Hp/l
Torque:185 Nm @ 3000-4250 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:N43B20A [Same engine] More details about the engine N43B20A
Engine displacement:1995
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.25 l
Coolant:7.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm
Compression ratio:12:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:7.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.1 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.8 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.8 sec
Maximum speed:204 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10.4 kg/Hp, 96.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.8 kg/Nm, 146.2 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.3 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1265
Max. weight:1755
Max. roof load:75 kg
Max load:490
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1150 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:330 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1200 kg
Fuel tank capacity:53 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:650 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Size:
Length:4239 mm [121mm less]
Width:1748 mm [Same width.]
Height:1421 mm [10mm more]
Wheelbase:2660 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1484 mm
Rear (Back) track:1497 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):145 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.7 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size195/55 R16 87H
Wheel rims size6.5J x 16
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

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