Beschreibung
2008 '08' plate 6 speed manual model with only 4 owners, Full Service History, the two original remote keys and only 98, 500 genuine miles from new. Finished in dark Monaco Blue Metallic it is in fantastic shape throughout and much has been spent over the years to keep it in this condition.
As you can imagine, it has wanted for nothing with any items renewed with genuine parts as required. Since I have bought the car I've taken time to ensure all is well throughout and I spent a long time looking for the right one.
The standard specification includes a lovely 3 spoke Multi-function Leather steering wheel, ABS, DSC Stability control (The troublesome modulator has just been replaced so no worries there), Trip Computer, Front fog lamps, Remote central locking with alarm, BMW Business audio system with Aux jack, Electric windows and a suite of airbags.
Further options fitted at the factory include the Lava orange interior, Adaptive sport seats with additional side bolster support (great when cornering), 18" M Sport 5 spoke staggered wheels, Cruise control, Rear parking sensors, Split folding rear seats, Auto dimming rear view mirror, Climate control and centre Arm rest
The 123D engine was a world first, being the most powerful 4 cylinder diesel ever made. This was achieved using twin turbo chargers that delivered 204 PS as standard when new and even though it's a few years old now it does not disappoint; there are no rattles, leaks, creaks, smoke or other noises as you would expect from such a well cared for car. It sounds great and is smooth with everything working exactly as it should with no warning lights or service reminders. The compression's were checked and were all spot on and there were no timing chain issues identified when it was thoroughly checked in July this year. Whilst this work was being done I also had the rocker cover gasket replaced and a throttle flap delete kit fitted as these are known for being brittle and can break, potentially damaging the engine.
I spent a lot of time researching how best to get additional reliable power out of this engine and decided to use CM Chiptune who have a great reputation in the BMW world for the quality of their work. Sure enough when combined with the sports air filter the new bespoke program installed provided an additional 56PS (now 260) and over 100Nm of extra torque so now it totally flies! The engine could have taken far more but I wanted total reliability and usability on track. The key difference is that now power is across the entire rev range and not just in a small section like most diesels. It means its easy to drive quickly and consistently with no turbo lag and very quick throttle response. There is also zero black smoke when accelerating and the engine is just as refined and tractable as it was before. I also always warmed it up and cooled it down and only used high grade oils in the car so with regular maintenance it will continue to run this well for many years to come. I've just completed a 1, 500 mile round trip through Europe where it averaged nearly 50 mpg and used no fluids whatsoever other than diesel, even though it had some track time whilst I was there (see pictures); I'd have no hesitation in doing the whole trip again tomorrow in it as it was totally reliable and great fun.
The differential and gearbox are also in great shape with no whirs or rattles and the clutch is also fine. I had the fluids changed for both of these in July which has made the shift action even sweeter. A bespoke BMW short shifter has been imported from Germany and fitted to improve its already great shift quality - this really is a must-have improvement for a track car and made a big difference.
I bought the car intending to use it as a fast road / occasional track car though in the event it has had very little usage especially on the latter. I set about addressing the weak sports of the E82 1 Series to ensure I could get many years of reliable pleasure out of it. I wanted it to be a bit like an M3 CSL but have a manual gearbox and still be useable every day if needed. The vision was that it needed to be able to be driven from the UK to the Nurburgring in comfort, spend time there lapping then be driven home again with no issues and l'm pleased that this is exactly how the car has turned out.
Firstly the front brakes were uprated with a brake kit matched to high quality Ferodo DS2500 pads and Pagid discs which provide supreme stopping power on both the road and track. The rear brakes were updated with the Ferodo pads and Pagid discs again and the whole system enhanced with Motul racing fluid. This really is an excellent set-up and has never given any fade even in extreme conditions.
The suspension and steering also felt great but I wanted to make some improvements to reduce the affects of age on the suspension components and bushes as well as making it even sharper and more durable on track without damaging refinement and ride quality too much. Firstly the front suspension arms were replaced with heavy duty components from the E90 Series BMW M3 V8. These were matched to bespoke upper strut top mounts that provide slightly more camber again and these two features combined provide more steering response, stability and even sharper turn-in. The car is also fitted with road legal track tyres which provide amazing grip in the dry or wet on track yet are also fine for road usage. A full set of standard road tyres is also included and a second set of new, unused 18" black wheels providing a 4 square set-up with new 255 35 Federal RSR track tyres is also available by separate negotiation.
A full new front and rear Eibach anti-roll bar set-up was fitted with new genuine BMW drop links which helps to reduce roll through low and high speed corners. These measures were joined by new uprated KW ST coilover / coilovers suspension which are known for their high quality construction, ride and handling characteristics and durability. New steering links were fitted along with polyurethane Powerflex bushes in key areas, followed by a full suspension alignment session making this what is one of the best handling and riding 1 Series' out there for road or track use.
Outside the body is in fantastic shape with only a couple of minor imperfections that are not noticeable. There is also not rust or major marks anywhere, it looks great and this is condition is also reflected inside with no damage or wear to the interior trim as befits such a well cared for car.
It has a long MOT, is HPI clear also qualifies for cheap road tax and car insurance. It has just had its full service so won't need another one for some time (and then it will just be the minor inspection 1 oil service) and has had all key areas looked at and improved. I myself have spent over £4, 500 getting it to where it is today and am only now selling due to getting a new company car with my job, meaning this one won't get used nearly enough.
This is certainly one of the best 1 Series' on sale and makes a great alternative to the larger, heavier and less engaging later BMW's. Any inspections would be welcome. If you have any questions or would like to discuss further please do not hesitate to get in contact and thanks for looking
