2010 BMW 128i Convertible Performance Review

The German automotive brand BMW has always been synonymous with a seemingly unmatched blend of performance and luxury. However, their relatively new 1-series has also attempted to add budget to the equation. Though many critics were quick to doubt BMW's ability to create a (relatively) inexpensive car that lived up to its brand's standards, after owning a 2010 128i convertible for the better part of a year now, I can confidently say they have succeeded.

With a base MSRP of $33,875, its just over $10,000 cheaper than the entry 3-series convertible. However, it should be noted that the 3-series does feature a hardtop, while the 128 is a conventional soft-top. While the rag top seems to do a great job of inhibiting wind noise, visibility in parking lots is no better than what is to be expected from a convertible, which can be frustrating to say the least.

One instance where the 1-series sets itself apart from other convertibles is, by no surprise, performance. Even something as simple as casual driving makes you realize that it's lived up to the BMW name. Competitors such as the Lexus is350 and Audi A4 convertibles feel as though their frames are made of plastic when compared to the 1. Even with the top down, the 128i feels firm and sporty. Adding the sport-package ($1,200), stiffens the chassis even more, while also adding performance tires and 17" wheels. Though it does boost the car's performance, the bimmer seems to do just fine without it.

Behind the wheel there is very little cowl-shake. The car feels, stiff, confident and planted, even on the bumpiest of roads. Equipped with the sports package, however, the car's suspension still manages to soak up imperfections in the road at a level normally expected from a coupe. The steering is tight, responsive and on center, making the 1 feel as though it can handle the windiest of roads with ease.

Though the 128i foregoes the turbo (and the extra $6,000) seen on the 135i, there is no lack of acceleration. The legendary 3.0-liter inline six propels the vert from zero to sixty in a very respectable CarAndDriver reported 6.2 seconds. Shifts are smooth with the automatic and lightning-fast when the car is switched into sport mode.

On the inside, the 128i looks and feels good. It carries the BMW tradition of being both spartan, yet very luxurious at the same time. The clear, modern gauges look great and are easy to read at quick glance, something not always achieved in luxury-sports cars today. However, with the sun glaring directly into your eyes, they do manage a slightly annoying amount of reflection. The seats are quite comfortable and feel bolstered enough without being in any way intrusive.

Though the 128i is smaller than its 3-series counterpart, it doesn't seem to let it get in the way. Taller passengers will be hard-pressed to find the front seats less than accommodating. The back seats, though anything but roomy, are more than you would expect from other convertibles of its size, and are able to carry considerably larger passengers with an unexpected level of ease.

Whenever a coupe-based convertible hits the market, the loss of the top seems to indicate a loss of performance. While the BMW is no exception to this, the degree to which any of vehicle's dynamics are lost is minimal at most and far less than any of its direct competitors. Its MSRP of just below $34,000 makes it an excellent buy for the money, a price range at which its performance is unmatched.

"BMW 128i Convertible," Car And Driver Magazine.