BMW 1 Series E87
The only rear-wheel-drive premium hatchback of its era, blending efficiency with BMW's signature handling.
- Power
- 143 bhp
- Top speed
- 130 mph
About the BMW 1 Series E87
The E87 1 Series was a landmark for BMW, bringing the brand's rear-wheel-drive dynamics to the competitive C-segment for the first time. The 2008 118d features the N47 diesel engine, introduced during the 2007 facelift to provide a significant boost in efficiency and power through BMW's EfficientDynamics programme. While the cabin is tighter than rivals like the Audi A3, the 1 Series offers a superior driving position and balanced 50:50 weight distribution. As a collector's prospect, the E87 is valued more for its unique mechanical layout than outright luxury, though the N47 engine requires careful maintenance of its timing chain.
BMW 1 Series E87 specs
The BMW 1 Series E87 produces 143 bhp (107 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 1 Series |
| Generation | E87 |
| Trim | 118d SE |
| Years | 2004–2011 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 143 bhp (107 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,395 kg (3,075 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 103 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
BMW 1 Series E87 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 1 Series E87 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 1 Series E87 fun facts
- The 118d was named the 2008 World Green Car of the Year, beating the Smart ForTwo and Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion.
- It was the only car in its class to feature a longitudinally mounted engine and rear-wheel drive, a configuration usually reserved for larger executive saloons.
- The 2007 facelift introduced 'EfficientDynamics' technologies to the 118d, including active aero flaps behind the kidney grilles and brake energy regeneration.
