The BMW 135i was a fun, reasonably quick coupe that was well rated when it first came out, but left a lot to be desired for the hard core enthusiast. BMW had the makings of something truly great thanks to the 1-Series’s smaller platform, short wheel base and low weight- they just needed to give it that BMW M edge. What came of this project is the 1M- a truly perfect combination of powerful turbocharged engine, short wheelbase, suspension from the E9X M3, extra wide flared fenders and a penchant for oversteer. After just a few minutes behind the wheel, you will understand why so many automotive journalists and enthusiasts use this car as the benchmark for fun driving. With a design based on the “1 Series tii Concept,” first shown at the 2007 Tokyo Motorshow, the 1M differentiates itself from a standard 135i with a set of exaggerated fender flares as well as more aggressive front and rear bumpers. Upon its debut in 2011, the car immediately received rave reviews, placing 3rd in Evo Magazine’s Car of The Year Awards, behind a 997 GT3 RS 4.0 and the new McLaren MP4-12C.

This 2011 BMW 1M is finished in the launch color of Valencia Orange over black leather and Alcantara interior with orange stitching. If you want a 1M that is in essentially factory-fresh condition, this is the example for you. Showing just 14,643 miles at the time of cataloging, this car has been lovingly cared for from new and cherished as the future collectible that it is. Delivered new to Brownwood, TX, in June of 2011, this 1M car has been under the care of one owner until it arrived at EAG in March 2018 when it had 5,991 miles. Although the 1M was offered in a few different colors, Valencia Orange is by far the most iconic choice and shows off the fender flares' unique lines and revised front and rear bumpers. The inside of a BMW 1M has a strong focus on driving, and all cars are fitted with the same Black Dakota leather with orange deviated stitching throughout. Although there is a screen in the center stack, it sits far enough back on the dashboard to not be in the driver's face while still providing the information you need for the infotainment system. A simple gauge cluster with a subtle Alcantara hood houses a large tachometer and speedometer, along with a small screen to display a car’s vitals. On the multi-function steering wheel, there is an “M” button, which, when pressed, alters the parameters of the stability and traction control to allow the driver to have even more fun behind the wheel.

At EAG, we agree with what the general consensus was when the 1M first came out this is not just fun for an M car; this is one of the most exciting driving cars anywhere, regardless of price. BMW only imported 740 examples of these compact rockets, and finding one in this condition isn’t an everyday occurrence. The best way to figure out why everyone raves about these cars, is to put one in your garage- and it’s hard to imagine a better example than this to do that with.