BMW 1-Series: universal appeal
The BMW 1-Series is the kind of car that many new drivers will aspire to own, as well as more experienced drivers. This is a rare thing, to find a car that seems to appeal to everyone.
This is the defining characteristic of BMW’s fantastic 1-Series, and has ensured its success since its launch in 2004. If you go ahead with a BMW 1-Series leasing package, you will land yourself a new car that’s hugely versatile and multi-talented.
Since the old and slightly unloved 3-Series compact departed to make way for the 1-Series, the 1-Series has, in turn, spawned other models within its range. In 2004 the 1-Series was only available as a hatchback, but now it comes with a choice of hatchback, coupe and even convertible models. Team this with a range of world-class engines and a BMW 1-Series hire purchase deal becomes all the more appealing.
One of the most exciting versions available on BMW 1-Series finance plans is the 130d, either in convertible or coupe models. Due to the rear-wheel drive layout, the hatchback is not actually that roomy in the rear, which means that you don’t lose much in terms of rear space when you make the transition to coupe.
The diesel technology available in these cars is also a considerable bonus, particularly with the 3 litre twin turbo diesel engine. If you choose this engine with your BMW 1-Series hire purchase deal, it will reward you with waves of low down torque – and will even give you a respectable return on your fuel bills.
Diesel engines aren’t to everyone’s taste of course, but that’s not a problem because BMW are world leaders in performance petrol engines. If you’re thinking about a BMW 1-Series finance plan, you might want to take a look at the ‘M1′, which boasts twin turbo petrol power and can reach 0-60mph in under 5 seconds.
BMW 1-series: all grown up
BMW is a grown up car manufacturer, there’s no question of that – you only have to consider their reputation for build quality, design and premium pricing. It needn’t cost an arm and a leg to get a BMW on your driveway, however. The 1-series is BMW’s best value car, and with a range of BMW 1-series leasing package options at your disposal, it can be quite straight-forward to get your hands on one.
First up, let’s have a look at what makes a BMW 1-series hire purchase deal worth considering over its nearest competitor, the Audi A3. Both are similarly priced, both are hatchbacks, but the similarities grind to a halt there.
If you’re leaning towards choosing a BMW 1-series finance plan, as opposed to the Audi, it’s probably because you’re either sold on the BMW marque, or because you know the BMW is rear wheel drive, as opposed to front or four wheel drive. This difference is key, because in the entire ‘hatchback’ sector, only the BMW 1-series is offered in rear wheel drive.
Rear wheel drive is the preferred set-up for racing drivers, true, but what difference does it make on the road? Well, the key difference is understeer – which is the term used to describe the car’s failure to turn in proportion to how much you turn the steering wheel. With rear wheel drive, understeer is almost eliminated, potentially making the car safer.
What does pose something of a dilemma is that there are Audi A3 finance plans available for a similar monthly rate, which would give you the option of four wheel drive – an even safer alternative. What’s more, because the BMW only has rear wheel drive, space is borrowed from the boot and rear passenger area to compensate, leaving you less room for luggage.
What you will get from your BMW 1-series hire purchase deal, however, is a fun drive, a broad list of optional extras, industry-leading engines, class-leading build quality and the extra prestige that comes with the BMW badge.
If you’re considering a BMW 1-series finance plan, shop around online for the most competitive deals and you could save money.