Why you should buy a 128i

We go through the different choices of cars when choosing a drivers car, 128i modifications, before and after dyno, and test drive with the new mods.
List of parts and pricing in the credits.

Dyno numbers are in the video.

0:00 Intro
0:24 Choosing the right car
3:51 Choosing a 128i
6:17 Exterior Mods
7:33 Interior Mods
7:58 Engine Mods
8:59 Suspension Mods
9:38 Stock dyno
9:55 Modded dyno
10:28 Tuned dyno
11:07 Dyno numbers
11:50 Test drive
13:07 0-120mph
14:28 Cost breakdown

[found-outgarage]

It’s mental that this is base model to me being from the uk. My first bmw had a 1.6 petrol and a 6 cyl bmw was like a pinnacle car for me. Now owning a 125i, that didn’t change for me, just the fact everyone else got these as base models blows my mind!

[VictorPitstop]

Everyone seemed to have found out about the 128i the past year. Therefore the price went up with rarity. I’d rather go Miata since I can fit 😂

[mateuszokon]

My 128i msport 6speed slick top lemans blue pushing 195k its quick gets up to 157mph with no issues an intake makes the engine sound great

[jeremywatson]

I have a 08 128i 6mt has 177k miles on it and I'm going to keep it going as long as financially possible. I love that car.

[rockyhernandez]

The 128i is a great car. Your car looks great! I also agree the 128i is great for a daily/weekend track car.

Some other cars someone might consider IMO would be the E90 325i/328i $2500-$6000. Also a Boxster/Cayman can also be found for about 10k.

[Euphorica]

Basically a modern day e36m3 ...power and size wise

[xshadowspy]

I've had my 128i for 8 years best car I've had I've added a single turbo 335i to my garage it's fast in a straight line but man the 1er in the back roads outshines the 335i still never getting rid of mine 🔥

[ArticulateArena]

I bought one of these with suspension, rims, tires, intake, tint and some blackout trim work... but i didn't know it was an n51... its got punch and sounds good.. idk what else they've done to it but I'm guessing 10k wasn't bad for it with all that work and only 80k miles.. people act like I'm driving a 600 hp m car with all the complements i get.

I wish I knew what else was done and knew how to do more

[redline]

Awesome video man, thanks for all the info! Looking at your whiteboard, I felt that I could've drawn exactly the same options :D I drive a BRZ, and am looking to switch it to an 125i/128i for the exact same reasons. Problem is, N52 E82s' prices have exploded in Europe, they are rather in the $15.000-$20.000 segment :/
Anyway, sick shifting!

[AB-jktw]

In my view it is the best choice for fun, spirited, reliable fun, especially when you get the convertible.

[vPete]

Excellent stuff, absolutely love mine. Especially post-diff and three-stage intake manifold with tune

[ashleymerritt]

I miss my e90 330i, also had the N52 engine and can confirm.. so, so

[bruce_son]

you got a unicorn spec, n52, manual, and coupe is the dream spec I've been looking for years.

The n51 is less desirable as it has 25 less hp, lower CR, and has extra emissions equipment

[Mattgillot]

Thanks for all the great info! Awesome work

[jjturner]

I got 2011 128i w 47k miles for 16k, lil high but for the lower miles and it being my car of choice, I’d do it again if I had to!

[JupiterLXIX]

Z3/Z4 are also a great choice and actually more fun than the e82. I’ve owned both and they’re both amazing cars.

[Elbaby-znxl]

I have a 128 i since 2019 and it has been great never get bored of it evrey time i walk to the car i get the same exitment 💪🏽 and it has a lot of miles 😂

[shreddymercury]

nice video man. Ill be following suite on my 128i manual in alpine white!

[AnthonyStromDesign]

I picked up a 2009 128i msport with a manual. I did a lot of suspension upgrade. It is a thrill to drive. And the n52 engine is easy to work on. Can you do a video on the 2 stage intake? And did you have to flash the computer? I would like to do that on mine, and also a limited slip diff. Great material on the 128i. These cars are getting more rare.

[connorcarroll]

Hey man I recently have acquired a 135i stick and was wondering about shifting I see him shift at the redline but while learning to drive it my mom tought me to shift it around 2000rpms any suggestions or explanations?