The company BMW, in its inaugural series, offered buyers various body options. The BMW 1 E87 was the first hatchback presented to the public, and then it was removed from the assembly line. This happened in 2004. The car was produced for seven years.
In 2007, the car underwent a facelift. The first series hatchback was a rear-wheel-drive, compact car with a longitudinally placed engine.
Exterior of BMW 1 E87
The car's exterior is the very first thing that catches the consumer's eye.
Thanks to the reinforced side body panels, the car's frame has increased durability in use. Xenon headlights are located at the front. The hood has a slightly noticeable textured surface. The radiator grille has two sections.
Chrome lines look great on the bumper of the BMW 1 E87. At the bottom, there is a hose used for headlight washing. Upon closer inspection, you can notice that the wheel arches are slightly flared.
The mirrors have a small volume, which may cause some issues. Most cars have pneumatic tires. Additionally, self-supporting tires can be installed. Thanks to this feature, the car will continue to move even if there is no pressure.
The bumper is quite large and has a molding and a beautiful lower curve, which matches the color of the hatchback's body.
Fog Lights
Small fog lights are located on the bumper at the front. The lights illuminate the road well, ensuring the driver does not experience discomfort while driving at night.
Headlights
Thanks to the xenon headlights, the car's safety level is increased, even at night. The optics are multifunctional and can adjust during turns. As mentioned earlier, the headlights have washers.
Radiator Grille
This element is designed in a typical style for a Bavarian car, but it is positioned almost vertically.
Interior of BMW 1 E87
The interior of the BMW first series E87 was meticulously thought out. The interior is made of high-quality materials. The door trim looks very aesthetic. The E87 has been enhanced with functionality. Ambient lighting was added to the door handles.
The driver's seat is designed for maximum comfort. The driver and front passenger seats can be easily adjusted. There is side support and heating available. There is not much space at the back, but the passenger seats can be adjusted.
Electronics
Many first-generation cars have a steering wheel with electric power steering. However, the BMW 1 E87 does not have this feature. The cruise control system can be adjusted using a switch located under the steering wheel.
There are also devices that adjust belt tension.
Thanks to the PDC system, the risk of collision with other vehicles is reduced. If any danger is imminent, the system emits an audible signal. To navigate conveniently, a GPS navigator can be installed.
The E87 has a good safety system. This includes six airbags, a collapsible steering column, seat headrests, energy-absorbing elements for impacts, safety glass, and more.
Features of BMW 1 E87
The car was assembled in Regensburg, Germany. Engines were acquired in Birmingham, England. The E87 model was very successful in sales. Approximately one hundred and fifty thousand cars were sold during its sales period. Only the third and fifth series cars were sold in greater numbers.
This vehicle has sufficiently powerful power units, good dynamics, excellent sound insulation, wonderful design. The car is very reliable, rich in lighting, not so expensive to maintain, and the handling of the vehicle is simply impressive.
However, of course, there are also drawbacks. These include high fuel consumption, insufficient space for rear passengers, lack of a repair kit and spare tire.
Differences Between Facelift and Pre-Facelift
Three years after the release of the BMW 1 E87, a facelift was carried out. Designers made slight changes to the appearance, radiator grille, and bumper. Two years later, the mirrors were changed. All this was done because Euro standards had been altered. During the facelift, designers paid particular attention to the rear and front of the car in terms of both interior and exterior.
At the end of the facelift, the car acquired a new radiator grille, slightly raised, improved spoilers with an extended air intake.
Thanks to these changes, the car gained a more sporty look, and airflow efficiency was improved. The headlights remained the same size, but the shape was altered. This change is noticeable when viewed from the side where the bumper module is located. The headlight trim was made slightly darker. The shape of the rear lights remained the same, but the light layout was changed.
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