130i

130i is the high-performance petrol variant of BMW’s first-generation 1 Series, available in the hatchback and coupe/convertible lines built on the E87/E82 platforms. It was marketed mainly in European and other non-U.S. markets, and was not offered in the United States. The model appeared in the mid- to late-2000s and continued into the early 2010s as part of the 1 Series generation’s lifecycle.

Powertrain and performance are centered on a 3.0-liter inline-six engine (various iterations across markets, typically around 265 PS or 195 kW) delivering strong mid-range and high-end response. Torque is generally in the vicinity of 300 Nm. The 130i was offered with a six-speed manual as standard, with a six-speed automatic transmission available as an option. The rear-wheel-drive layout, balanced chassis, and sport-tuned characteristics aimed to emphasize a driver-focused experience within the non-M 1 Series lineup.

In terms of performance benchmarks, 0–100 km/h times are commonly reported in the mid-6 second range, with electronically limited top speeds around 250 km/h. Equipment levels varied by market and trim, but the 130i typically included sport styling cues, enhanced braking, and firmer suspension compared with lower-spec variants. Inside, it offered supportive seating and a driver-oriented cockpit consistent with BMW’s performance-oriented ethos of the period.

Legacy and positioning: the 130i occupied a niche as the most powerful normally aspirated petrol variant in the first-gen 1 Series, positioned between the naturally aspirated 120i/125i models and the turbocharged 135i in markets where the latter was available.