The BMW company introduced the BMW 1 E81 to the public in 2004. After three years, a facelift of the five-door hatchback was carried out. At the same time, another version of the car appeared — the E81. This version was presented at the Geneva Motor Show.
It can be said that the three-door hatchback is very similar to the five-door one. The only difference is in weight. Often, these models are referred to together as the BMW 1 Series E81/E87.
Next, you will be able to read about all the nuances of the car, compare the E81 and E87 body types, as well as its competitiveness with other cars.
Features of BMW 1 E81
The BMW 1 Series E81 has six engines with a 1995 cm3 capacity (three diesel, three petrol). The power units have a power output of 122-204 horsepower, and fuel consumption ranges from 4 to 12.2 liters per one hundred kilometers. The car can accelerate to one hundred kilometers per hour in 6-10 seconds, with a maximum speed of 205-238 kilometers per hour.
The standard equipment includes a six-speed GS6-17DG manual gearbox. An automatic transmission can be installed upon the customer's request.
The Valvetronic system is installed on petrol engines. The BER system is used in diesel units and helps to save fuel.
Design of BMW 1 Series E81
The interior of this car brand is designed the same as the E87. However, the doors in the car do not have frames and resemble a coupe. The E81 weighs 10 kilograms less than the BMW 1 E81, but the dimensions remain unchanged. This means that nothing has changed for passengers sitting in the second row. However, the wide doors make it easier for passengers in the first row to embark and disembark.
Thanks to the increased glass area, visibility and visibility have improved. There are no significant changes in the interior, but the exterior has been slightly improved. The shape of the bi-xenon headlights has been changed, and the trim has been slightly darkened. The three-door model has a decorative overlay, an improved spoiler edge, and widened air intakes.
Tires of BMW 1 E81
The car's wheels were made based on the Run-Flat principle. Thanks to strengthening the sidewalls, the distance that can be traveled on flat tires has increased.
Lighting
The main optics are equipped with bi-xenon light, daytime running lights, and turning lights. All this reduces the risk during travel in poorly lit road conditions.
Seals
In reality, the door seals are not of the highest quality. This leads to increased friction in the door openings, which are painted. However, thanks to the proper galvanizing of the car body, such damage occurs very rarely.
Difference between pre-facelift and facelift
Thanks to the facelift, the car's radiator grille and spoiler have been enlarged, located at the bottom. This was done to ensure better airflow to the power unit. The bumper and lights have also been slightly modified.
Due to the changes in the bumper, the car looks more sporty. This is because it appears lower and slightly wider. The headlights have a new position for the lights but have not changed their appearance.
Competitiveness of BMW 1 E81
If we judge by the reviews, then we can say that the BMW E81 and E87 have many competitors in the car markets. Let's consider the three main competing cars.
The first vehicle is the BMW V40. This is a stylish, user-friendly, and attractive car.
The second is a car from the A-class, originating from Germany. This model from Mercedes has an elegant interior finish. For a small price, the buyer gets a full hatchback, quality, and economical transport.
The main competitor to the E81 is considered to be the Audi A3. This model is significantly more expensive, as it has modern technologies and a more expensive finish. However, in terms of quality and comfort of the information and entertainment system, there are no differences here.
The Audi A3 interior has a minimalist design, but the finish is of high quality. The MMI system has a seven-inch display and is combined with the audio system control unit and climate control. The seats for the driver and the front passenger are comfortable.
The BMW 1 E81 interior is not that bad. However, the display is slightly smaller — 6.6 inches. But in terms of resolution and graphics, it is much better. Both cars have adjustments for the driver and the front passenger.
In the BMW, the driver's seat has a higher seating position than in the Audi. Although the A3 has more ranges for vertical adjustment. Comfortable conditions have been created for the driver in both car models. The E81 handles better on flat roads, while the A3 copes well with various irregularities.
Issues with BMW 1 E81
Let's take a look at the «weak points» of the BMW 1 E81.
The front panel may creak. After tuning, this problem will occur less frequently. The side mirrors have a tendency to fold when unfolded.
To fix this, you will need to disassemble the mirror and clean the locking mechanism, which may corrode. This happens when water enters the interior after heavy rains.
This would mean that the sound insulation has come loose. If oxidation starts under the bottom terminal, then the cooling fans will not turn on, and power will be lost.
The electric steering lock may fail after 70-100 thousand kilometers. As a result, the engine will not start, and the steering wheel will automatically lock. After 200 thousand kilometers, the efficiency of the heating system decreases.
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