Really!
I stand corrected then. I guess it's been beat part of a year since I was quoted. Sounds like they're getting more competitive in the PCP world.
New S3, New Focus ST or M135i
- Thread starter Andy White
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I stand corrected then. I guess it's been beat part of a year since I was quoted. Sounds like they're getting more competitive in the PCP world.
Well - just got the latest 1-Series brochure through today (plus you can download it from the BMW website) and Page 30 is devoted to BMW X-Drive. The description reads:
This system adapts perfectly to even the most challenging road conditions, ensuring outstanding traction at all times. With xDrive and standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), the vehicle remains directionally stable and on track. Split second response times allow xDrive to distribute drive power between the two axles for optimum grip. In this way , xDrive combines the advantages of all-wheel drive (traction, directional stability and safety) with classic BMW agility.
It's also mentioned on the BMW UK website for the 1-Series (scroll down to the bottom of the Technology page
http://www.bmw.co.uk/en_GB/new-vehicles/1/5-door/2015/technology.html
However they don't say which models it is either fitted to as standard or is an option on, so will have to check with BMW tomorrow
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AudiBoy1976
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The BMW 1 Series looks like a woman's Car, but the M135i does have a great sounding Engine!
The Ford ST looks like a Shoe(Hot Hatches look wrong with 4Doors), has Tacky looking Interior, a boring 4Cyl Engine & will drop like a stone in Value, but does Handle pretty well!
The S3 looks Fantastic in Saloon form, has virtually the Best Interior that Audi currently Offers, is fairly Rare still & is Fast, but unfortunately the 4Cyl Engine is boring to Drive & it will end up loosing a fair bit of money, being an 'S' Branded Car!
If it had to be out of the 3 above Cars, I'd still pick the S3, but I'd probably go down the route of a Used Audi 'RS' Branded Car instead, if it was me, as you'd have more Fun in it & it would hold the money much better!
The Ford ST looks like a Shoe(Hot Hatches look wrong with 4Doors), has Tacky looking Interior, a boring 4Cyl Engine & will drop like a stone in Value, but does Handle pretty well!
The S3 looks Fantastic in Saloon form, has virtually the Best Interior that Audi currently Offers, is fairly Rare still & is Fast, but unfortunately the 4Cyl Engine is boring to Drive & it will end up loosing a fair bit of money, being an 'S' Branded Car!
If it had to be out of the 3 above Cars, I'd still pick the S3, but I'd probably go down the route of a Used Audi 'RS' Branded Car instead, if it was me, as you'd have more Fun in it & it would hold the money much better!
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I've owned all three, (St then M135i then s3), and work for Ford so still drive STs reasonably often.
The Focus handles the best overall, especially the steering feel, but does torque steer the most, and feel a bit slower than the other 2.
The BMW is has the best engine, and is the best built by far, but does feel the least sporty imo as there is too much roll as standard (I changed my springs for acs ones), and the lack of an lsd can make it get into a right state out of slow corners! I never quite fell in love with the looks, even though I did like them.
The s3 is probably the best "car" even though it's the least fun of the three, I enjoyed the ST and M135i but don't miss them. Ultimately, if I was forced to drive any of the three I'd be very happy, but given a choice it would be an s3.
The Focus handles the best overall, especially the steering feel, but does torque steer the most, and feel a bit slower than the other 2.
The BMW is has the best engine, and is the best built by far, but does feel the least sporty imo as there is too much roll as standard (I changed my springs for acs ones), and the lack of an lsd can make it get into a right state out of slow corners! I never quite fell in love with the looks, even though I did like them.
The s3 is probably the best "car" even though it's the least fun of the three, I enjoyed the ST and M135i but don't miss them. Ultimately, if I was forced to drive any of the three I'd be very happy, but given a choice it would be an s3.
mass produced , same body panels and paint options as st , I think it will be a flop , mk2 low miles standard MINT will be a investment
Depends how much you want to spend...
Between 30-40K will get a yr or two old Nissan GTR and after testing one I know it will be my next car soon. Supercar performance and fantastic looks. Just thought I'd throw that in the mix...
Between 30-40K will get a yr or two old Nissan GTR and after testing one I know it will be my next car soon. Supercar performance and fantastic looks. Just thought I'd throw that in the mix...
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Yes. I know what xDrive is, lol. I and another friend of mine have checked directly with BMW before and the M135i will not be coming to the UK. The only one of those shoe looking cars (1 Series) that has xDrive is the 120d.
AudiBoy1976
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I'd totally agree mate!
If your a Ford RS Enthusiast, the Mk2 Focus RS is the one to go for, with its Sporty 3Door Body, Aggressive Looks & a proper Drivers 5Cyl Engine...........with the Added Bonus of them holding their Value or even slightly going up, for Low Mileage One Owner Cars!
I think the New Focus RS will be too Mass Produced & will end up being remembered as just a Fast Hatch at the Time, like the Golf R, which you'll probably see Young Lads with Caps on driving around in them within a year or two of them being out, which really is'nt a good look!
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TheFiftheElement
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I've had an S3, numerous drives/rides in my buddy's 135i manual and my Dad had a Focus for about 2 years, I'm going to go with the 135i 
the newer updated revision actually looks quite nice in 5 door form.
The Focus is instantly out for me, I have no doubt that in terms of absolute build quality the interior of the Ford isn't that far removed from the Audi or BMW. However I just cannot sit in that cabin. It's quite frankly bogging, button-tastic too. It's not that it's a Ford, I am not a badge snob at all, my Dad's new Mazda 3, is a very nice looking car with a lovely cabin. Why Ford can't design something similar I don't know
I understand the comments about how the S3 will be the quickest all round year car, the BMW is crap in the wet etc. but really if your hooning about at 100% in the wet, then you're asking for trouble no matter what car you're in. If it's wet, and the roads are icy or greasy then I'd be slowing down in either car. Shock horror! I've had rear wheel drive cars for years and haven't killed myself
on wet roads, just drive in a manner suitable to the conditions 
So for me, it will come down to character, how the car makes you feel to drive and own. I think both the BMW and Audi will give you some satisfaction as an object to own, but the BMW will have so much more character, more of the time, and any speed, including the daily commute. You can provoke a wee tail end slip at moderate speeds, so you actually feel you are driving the car, and the 6 pot is so much more sonorous than any 4-pot turbo.
However, as usual, my advice would be to drive both and see which one takes your fancy. Both S3 and 135i would be very, very nice cars to own.
If I had 35K burning a hole in my pocket and needed a car with a roof, and 4 seats though, I'd be back visiting Ford, an enquire about something with a v8
the newer updated revision actually looks quite nice in 5 door form.The Focus is instantly out for me, I have no doubt that in terms of absolute build quality the interior of the Ford isn't that far removed from the Audi or BMW. However I just cannot sit in that cabin. It's quite frankly bogging, button-tastic too. It's not that it's a Ford, I am not a badge snob at all, my Dad's new Mazda 3, is a very nice looking car with a lovely cabin. Why Ford can't design something similar I don't know
I understand the comments about how the S3 will be the quickest all round year car, the BMW is crap in the wet etc. but really if your hooning about at 100% in the wet, then you're asking for trouble no matter what car you're in. If it's wet, and the roads are icy or greasy then I'd be slowing down in either car. Shock horror! I've had rear wheel drive cars for years and haven't killed myself
on wet roads, just drive in a manner suitable to the conditions So for me, it will come down to character, how the car makes you feel to drive and own. I think both the BMW and Audi will give you some satisfaction as an object to own, but the BMW will have so much more character, more of the time, and any speed, including the daily commute. You can provoke a wee tail end slip at moderate speeds, so you actually feel you are driving the car, and the 6 pot is so much more sonorous than any 4-pot turbo.
However, as usual, my advice would be to drive both and see which one takes your fancy. Both S3 and 135i would be very, very nice cars to own.
If I had 35K burning a hole in my pocket and needed a car with a roof, and 4 seats though, I'd be back visiting Ford, an enquire about something with a v8
It's good to have options , I really hated my 1 series , ultimate driving machine was ultimately boring bland and regardless to wet rain or ice being unable to get it off the drive in the snow is a dragI've had an S3, numerous drives/rides in my buddy's 135i manual and my Dad had a Focus for about 2 years, I'm going to go with the 135i
The Focus is instantly out for me, I have no doubt that in terms of absolute build quality the interior of the Ford isn't that far removed from the Audi or BMW. However I just cannot sit in that cabin. It's quite frankly bogging, button-tastic too. It's not that it's a Ford, I am not a badge snob at all, my Dad's new Mazda 3, is a very nice looking car with a lovely cabin. Why Ford can't design something similar I don't know
I understand the comments about how the S3 will be the quickest all round year car, the BMW is **** in the wet etc. but really if your hooning about at 100% in the wet, then you're asking for trouble no matter what car you're in. If it's wet, and the roads are icy or greasy then I'd be slowing down in either car. Shock horror! I've had rear wheel drive cars for years and haven't killed myself
So for me, it will come down to character, how the car makes you feel to drive and own. I think both the BMW and Audi will give you some satisfaction as an object to own, but the BMW will have so much more character, more of the time, and any speed, including the daily commute. You can provoke a wee tail end slip at moderate speeds, so you actually feel you are driving the car, and the 6 pot is so much more sonorous than any 4-pot turbo.
However, as usual, my advice would be to drive both and see which one takes your fancy. Both S3 and 135i would be very, very nice cars to own.
If I had 35K burning a hole in my pocket and needed a car with a roof, and 4 seats though, I'd be back visiting Ford, an enquire about something with a v8
Checked this morning with BMW and 4K was bang on, no plans to introduce xDrive on the M135 in the UK. So why the heck they put it in the brochure and online is anyone's guess, bit mis-leading
Got some test drives booked over the weekend!
Looks as with everything are subjective. The s3 looks lovely but I'd have to say the 5 door 1 series is a very good looking car also!
There's a video on EVO with an M135i v RS3. The M135 comes out on top in both straight line performance and on overall test some I'm wondering if the RS is more of a direct competitor for the Beemer!
Can't wait for the test drives and I'll let you know how it goes.
Looks as with everything are subjective. The s3 looks lovely but I'd have to say the 5 door 1 series is a very good looking car also!
There's a video on EVO with an M135i v RS3. The M135 comes out on top in both straight line performance and on overall test some I'm wondering if the RS is more of a direct competitor for the Beemer!
Can't wait for the test drives and I'll let you know how it goes.
I've had an S3, numerous drives/rides in my buddy's 135i manual and my Dad had a Focus for about 2 years, I'm going to go with the 135i
The Focus is instantly out for me, I have no doubt that in terms of absolute build quality the interior of the Ford isn't that far removed from the Audi or BMW. However I just cannot sit in that cabin. It's quite frankly bogging, button-tastic too. It's not that it's a Ford, I am not a badge snob at all, my Dad's new Mazda 3, is a very nice looking car with a lovely cabin. Why Ford can't design something similar I don't know
I understand the comments about how the S3 will be the quickest all round year car, the BMW is **** in the wet etc. but really if your hooning about at 100% in the wet, then you're asking for trouble no matter what car you're in. If it's wet, and the roads are icy or greasy then I'd be slowing down in either car. Shock horror! I've had rear wheel drive cars for years and haven't killed myself
So for me, it will come down to character, how the car makes you feel to drive and own. I think both the BMW and Audi will give you some satisfaction as an object to own, but the BMW will have so much more character, more of the time, and any speed, including the daily commute. You can provoke a wee tail end slip at moderate speeds, so you actually feel you are driving the car, and the 6 pot is so much more sonorous than any 4-pot turbo.
However, as usual, my advice would be to drive both and see which one takes your fancy. Both S3 and 135i would be very, very nice cars to own.
If I had 35K burning a hole in my pocket and needed a car with a roof, and 4 seats though, I'd be back visiting Ford, an enquire about something with a v8
When was the last time you sat a new focus ST3 it's virtually button less,with mostly the 8"touchscreen and column stalk controlling all the cars functions
TheFiftheElement
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naughts4187
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I would echo above from @vacant. Ultimately none are perfect however as a daily driver the S3 is probably the best choice. It's quite staggering that for £35-40k there is no clear winner in this market, and a real shame that Audi don't offer a performance (mainly dynamics) pack on the S3 as I'm sure lots of us would take this option.
One of the things drawing me to the BM is the M performance parts. LSD, exhaust, decals etc. Just gives you options when you've had it a while.
That doesn't handle brilliantly neither 
It's better, but still not great.
It's better, but still not great.
AudiBoy1976
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Realistically, a New RS3 is atleast 45k, so its in a completely different Price Bracket to the Cars we're currently talking about.
The other Option is to look at Cars that are just 12months old, that have Dropped to into the 35k Price Bracket. Opens up the doors to an even wider Range of nice Cars that still have atleast another 2years worth of Warranty on them!
The other Option is to look at Cars that are just 12months old, that have Dropped to into the 35k Price Bracket. Opens up the doors to an even wider Range of nice Cars that still have atleast another 2years worth of Warranty on them!
Kugaman1
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Surely its vs the S3. Not the Rs3?
Chris Harris tested the m135i against the old RS3, but things have moved on since then....
naughts4187
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Well it's not in the same price bracket alone... Plus it's not perfect handling...
I didn't say it was, it's far from perfect. It is improvement on the S3 though.
What has perfect handling?
I drove the M135i before getting the S3, it put a smile on my face with both the speed and noise. The S3 then did the same, more with the speed than noise TBH. The inside of the S3 is way better than the M135i, then you have the exterior looks! Some say the M135i has the looks only a mother can love
This put me off the M135i a bit!!!
This put me off the M135i a bit!!!
To sum up lol Badge Snobs will go either BMW or Audi true enthusiastic will go Focus RS NOT ST this car is about £10k cheaper so it shouldn't even be in this company as good as it is.
I personally wouldn't give the BMW house room ghastly inside and out
It's all down to debadge lol
I personally wouldn't give the BMW house room ghastly inside and out
It's all down to debadge lol
TG Hot Hatch Shootout:
20 to 10
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot...ut-cutting-20-contenders-down-10-drag-strip#1
10 to 6
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot-hatch/hot-hatch-shootout-10-contenders-become-six-track-battle#1
6 to 3
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot-hatch/hot-hatch-shootout-whitting-best-six-down-just-three#1
The final 3
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot...tout-civic-type-r-vs-fiesta-st-vs-vw-golf-r#1
20 to 10
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot...ut-cutting-20-contenders-down-10-drag-strip#1
10 to 6
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot-hatch/hot-hatch-shootout-10-contenders-become-six-track-battle#1
6 to 3
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot-hatch/hot-hatch-shootout-whitting-best-six-down-just-three#1
The final 3
http://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot...tout-civic-type-r-vs-fiesta-st-vs-vw-golf-r#1
Lol well summed up Jassy (Maybe be tongue in cheek but you are actually right)
Most people will buy the badge.
first and consider other things afterwards.
Most people will buy the badge.
first and consider other things afterwards.
The Focus ST is much better IMO than maybe it's given credit for. It's cheap and I am not convinced it's the best ownership proposition but it does have a good turn in and the steering is streets ahead of both the German efforts. It's lacking straight line speed compared to the S3 / M135i but that can be fixed by just getting the Focus RS.....
The M135i suffers from the same "8/10th's" syndrome as the S3. It's lacking in some key areas for me such as the overall poor quality, gearbox and the horrible lurching when changing direction quickly.
On balance the S3 would be my choice out of the three being talked about. It just swings it in a few key areas....oh and the badge factor of course
The M135i suffers from the same "8/10th's" syndrome as the S3. It's lacking in some key areas for me such as the overall poor quality, gearbox and the horrible lurching when changing direction quickly.
On balance the S3 would be my choice out of the three being talked about. It just swings it in a few key areas....oh and the badge factor of course
Test drives done yesterday! Great day it was too!
Firstly the S3. 3 door manual in black. Looked smart from the outside but wasn't blown away. The interior is very nice. Everything was where it should be and the finish lovely. Start up noise was nice sounding really meaty! On the road the gear box was a bit notchy for my liking but it was very quick and sounded nice. The handling was great but the seats were unsupportive in the bends which irritated me a bit.
I had a great time driving the car and other than the looks on the outside I was very impressed!
The BM had a lot to live up to.
After waiting half an hour to find the keys I got my hands in the M135 (5 door auto). I like the looks of the 1 series so I thought it looked the part in white with red leather. Inside maybe not as nice as the Audi but the build quality and feel was very good as you'd expect. The wide screen media screen was brill! I was expecting similar or less noise as the Audi on start up due to 2 less exhausts but it was louder and sounded better! The 8 speed auto box was a dream. The noise from the 6 pot was so addictive! The power delivery was so smooth. The car felt a fair bit quicker than the Audi but that may be due to the auto box. The car handled great which may have been down to the adaptive suspension option. The tyres (michelin pilot super sport) were very grippy and it didn't break traction very often which I thought it would coming from the superb Audi!
All in all they are both brilliant cars but felt the BM had the edge in almost every area especially the engine!
You have awesome cars guys and should be very happy but if you fancy a change I'd take a look at the M135! I just need to find a nice white with red leather!!
Firstly the S3. 3 door manual in black. Looked smart from the outside but wasn't blown away. The interior is very nice. Everything was where it should be and the finish lovely. Start up noise was nice sounding really meaty! On the road the gear box was a bit notchy for my liking but it was very quick and sounded nice. The handling was great but the seats were unsupportive in the bends which irritated me a bit.
I had a great time driving the car and other than the looks on the outside I was very impressed!
The BM had a lot to live up to.
After waiting half an hour to find the keys I got my hands in the M135 (5 door auto). I like the looks of the 1 series so I thought it looked the part in white with red leather. Inside maybe not as nice as the Audi but the build quality and feel was very good as you'd expect. The wide screen media screen was brill! I was expecting similar or less noise as the Audi on start up due to 2 less exhausts but it was louder and sounded better! The 8 speed auto box was a dream. The noise from the 6 pot was so addictive! The power delivery was so smooth. The car felt a fair bit quicker than the Audi but that may be due to the auto box. The car handled great which may have been down to the adaptive suspension option. The tyres (michelin pilot super sport) were very grippy and it didn't break traction very often which I thought it would coming from the superb Audi!
All in all they are both brilliant cars but felt the BM had the edge in almost every area especially the engine!
You have awesome cars guys and should be very happy but if you fancy a change I'd take a look at the M135! I just need to find a nice white with red leather!!
That's fair enough. One thing I'd say though is you're probably going to have problems come Winter time (depending on where you live) with the BM, unless you plonk on winter tyres. That's one of the main reasons I opted out of buying a 4 series. I just couldn't be bothered messing around with the tyres all the time (run flats/pneumatics/winter tyres) - too much hassle and wastes too much of your life.
You can't beat a good test drive, other peoples opinions are too subjective (If that's the right word) .
I've always liked the BMW's but would rather have front than rear wheel drive (Too heavier a right foot = trouble on corners and roundabouts
). I read somewhere though that the M cars are coming with X drive at some point, new models I guess. Maybe I'll start saving for that M5.
Anyways, Glad you've found 'your car'
I've always liked the BMW's but would rather have front than rear wheel drive (Too heavier a right foot = trouble on corners and roundabouts
). I read somewhere though that the M cars are coming with X drive at some point, new models I guess. Maybe I'll start saving for that M5.Anyways, Glad you've found 'your car'
Curiosity got the better of me,so off l went to configure M135I...for a start its cheaper once optioned,l specced my 135i to as near as i could my S3,its a good £1000 cheaper probably standard spec is slightly better,but there no options available to change them horrid anthracite wheels,the range of colours is about 5,it has all round led lights,with a option of Adaptive led headlamps £485.
To be honest l think you where unlucky with manual black 3 door demo you drove..as for you saying the.... BMW had the edge over the S3 in almost all aspects is beyond me...cant fathom that out STILL..but as they say "one man's meat...is another man's poison"
To be honest l think you where unlucky with manual black 3 door demo you drove..as for you saying the.... BMW had the edge over the S3 in almost all aspects is beyond me...cant fathom that out STILL..but as they say "one man's meat...is another man's poison"
There was also a comment about liking the way the 1 series looks...........
Personally don't think there is a worse looking car currently available. Some maybe equally as bad, but none worse.
You can't beat a good test drive, other peoples opinions are too subjective (If that's the right word) .
I've always liked the BMW's but would rather have front than rear wheel drive (Too heavier a right foot = trouble on corners and roundabouts
Anyways, Glad you've found 'your car'
The m135 is not an M car.
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Before making a final decision, give the S3 s-tronic a drive. You've not really compared like with like.
