2008 BMW 135i: Even Better

it looks like someone reversed into a wall at 60 MPH then said, "there, that looks better."

I'm always amazed at how forgiving most people are of bad-looking cars. I'm fortunate enough to get to drive an '08 Accord sedan frequently, and whenever I tell people about it, the gush on and on about how great it looks! They think I'm crazy when I say I like everything but the looks (and how slow it is). Always amazes me. The 1-Series probably gets compliments because it's a BMW and people think if they criticize it they'll look dumb and uninformed.

I don't think Southern Californians were ever known for their exceptional taste...

That's as pretty as a 2010 Lexus RX350!
Elegant lines continued on by awkward wtf.

Well given all the flak the 135i has gotten over its so called bad looks...I was actually surprised by how many people at the gas station or even Autozone stopped and asked is that the new 1-series? Wow...nice looking little car! I fell in love with the Tii concepts looks and not the actual stock 135i look...I even went as far as to purchase the performance kit to make my car look like that (except in Sparkling Graphite Metallic paint). Reflashing these cars just opens an entirely set of abilities with this engine.

I maintain it looks much better in person than in pictures. I like it because it is the only BMW that is actually rare in Southern California. I find the looks are more "quirky" than actually bad. I'm definitely considering getting a used 135 and doing the same reflash.

I thought it was "chomping" at the bit? Anyway, maybe you guys can finally get rid of those idiotic run flats and get a set of proper tires.

@johnnyr3: I was pretty sure of that, too, but it turns out that "champing" is probably the preferred form, and "chomping" is also acceptable.

"I maintain it looks much better in person than in pictures."

It most definitely does. This strange orangy-red color doesn't do it any favours either. It looks great in silver or black.

Here's a naive question, but I'm curious to know... When you get the car's computer flashed with a performance upgrade like this, is this ever something that might get accidentally erased by the dealership during routine service? Say, you take the 135 in for service, and they notice that BMW has put out an upgraded firmware for your car, and they just go ahead and apply it without bothering to ask you. Then when they return the car to you they're like "Oh, we noticed your car didn't have this update, so we went ahead and applied it for you!" and then your $800 performance flash has been erased. Then what?

@robert4380: Generally places that have reflashed your ECU will reflash it again with little or no charge. Once you have purchased the "product" it is not a problem...it is different when you purchase actual hardware.

Seen a few of these in the flesh, and yeah, they look better in person than in photos. Still wish it was a little more reserved and a little smaller.

What billt9 said...

Compared to the bland as a Buick 3 series sedan and ugly as a Camry Solara 3 coupe, the 1 just makes me grin. It reminds me of the e30 and that my friends was a fantastic looking little car.

If only it were about 400 lbs lighter. Sigh.

My 1975 2002 is slow as molasses, but it is still a joy to drive- a function of its direct steering, tight suspension and a curb weight of less than 2500 pounds.