BMW 1M Review: A Driver’s Delight

The BMW 1M Coupe is a car that proves you don’t need a massive production run to leave a lasting legacy. Produced for just one year in 2011, this compact performance sedan is BMW’s tribute to raw driving pleasure, taking everything enthusiasts love about BMW’s ‘M’ brand and condensing it into a compact car.

In this detailed review, we look at what makes this 2011 BMW 1M listed by Approved Automotive on DubiCars a limited-production modern classic.

DubiHighlights

Here are five interesting and unique details that set the BMW 1M Coupe apart:

1. Limited Production: Only 6,331 units were produced and only for the 2011 model year. BMW didn’t expect it to become as successful as it has, but its short production has only fueled its status as a collector’s gem.
2. Unique Name: BMW’s M sedans all follow a naming pattern — M2, M3, M4, M5, etc. But this was called the 1M to avoid it being confused with the classic BMW M1 sports car from 1978.
3. The ‘Baby M’ Packs A Punch: It may be small, but the 1M comes with a twin-turbo inline-six engine that puts down 335hp and 450Nm. Not bad for a ‘baby’ M!
4. Manual-Only: It was available with only a 6-speed manual gearbox. No fancy automatics, no paddle shifters — just pure, direct engagement for that perfect driving experience.
5. No Driver’s Aids: In an era where tech and driver assistance systems are overwhelming, the 1M stays true to BMW's purist roots with no electronic trickery—just basic stability control that you can switch off completely if you dare!

Design & Styling

The BMW 1M Coupe strikes a perfect balance between aggression and elegance. It measures 4,380mm in length, making it even shorter than the likes of the Toyota Corolla & Nissan Sunny and that leads to better handling. The flared wheel arches, low-slung profile, and wide-body stance give it a powerful, planted look on the road.?

The 1M comes from an era where BMW’s signature Kidney Grille didn’t take up the entire front end of a car, and we like that. The M badging on the rear and sides, all add to its character. It features an Akrapovic exhaust system that isn't just for show. In fact, it makes this car sound brilliant.?

Interior & Features

Engine & Performance

BMW 1M Price

BMW 1M Review Verdict

Read the complete BMW 1M Review article here.

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