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      02-02-2013, 02:47 AM   #1
Bruno28
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How good is the 125i F20

Hello,

Im looking to get either a new 125i F20 or used 135i. Unfortuantly the m135i here is $85k (usd) which is ridiculous.

I really like the power and sound of the 135i, but it will be a 2009 model, so im trying to convince myself to get a newer still in warranty and new interior 125i 2012.

Is there any remap to get extra power on the 4 cylinder turbo?

Can people with the 125i please post your thoughts.

Last edited by Bruno28; 02-02-2013 at 06:33 AM..
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      02-02-2013, 06:09 AM   #2
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You can definitely get more power from the engine, it's the same unit as the one in the 328i. Standard 125i puts out 163kw and 310nm, the x28i is in 180kw and 350nm tune for sub 6 second 0-60 in the bigger and heavier 3 series. Have a google for N20 tuning and see what you find.
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      02-02-2013, 06:28 AM   #3
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Originally Posted by elstoof View Post
You can definitely get more power from the engine, it's the same unit as the one in the 328i. Standard 125i puts out 163kw and 310nm, the x28i is in 180kw and 350nm tune for sub 6 second 0-60 in the bigger and heavier 3 series. Have a google for N20 tuning and see what you find.
I had a look. Seems like 45hp+ and 60Nm+ on JB tune.
But they only talk about the 328i and in stock it can do 0-100 in 5.6s?? Tuned 4.9s.
Why does the lighter 128i only does it in 6.4s in stock?

Then i saw a video of the 135i, and the engine sound is just so much better!
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      02-02-2013, 07:00 AM   #4
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Bruno28, You would enjoy what the F20 125i M Sport has to offer over the previous model in its drivability, but to get the best from it, you need to add 'Sport auto' and 'M Brakes' and that will set you back around $65k on the road.
You will then be tempted to add other goodies like HK sound, Xennons etc etc

The 125i's engine and 8 speed auto with paddles work exceptionally well together.
The rumours are that the M chip will be released for the 125i and 135i soon and that could take the 125i from 163kw to over the 200kw and give a sub 5.
The 125i is quick as it is. I think the real 0-100 time is closer to a flat 6.00

If you have to have the sub 5 seconds, save your money or borrow more and get a F20 M135i or second hand M1
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      02-02-2013, 07:06 AM   #5
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Originally Posted by AusF20 View Post
Bruno28, You would enjoy what the F20 125i M Sport has to offer over the previous model in its drivability, but to get the best from it, you need to add 'Sport auto' and 'M Brakes' and that will set you back around $65k on the road.
You will then be tempted to add other goodies like HK sound, Xennons etc etc

The 125i's engine and 8 speed auto with paddles work exceptionally well together.
The rumours are that the M chip will be released for the 125i and 135i soon and that could take the 125i from 163kw to over the 200kw and give a sub 5.
The 125i is quick as it is. I think the real 0-100 time is closer to a flat 6.00

If you have to have the sub 5 seconds, save your money or borrow more and get a F20 M135i or second hand M1
200kw sounds good!
Closer to my old 130i

I would love the m135i but I'm only 22 year old and in UNI, I can't spend more than I can afford
I'll get something for now (125i or 135i) and later get a m135i

Last edited by Bruno28; 02-02-2013 at 07:13 AM..
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      02-02-2013, 08:12 AM   #6
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I've just gotten in to a 125i M Sport. Ex demo (4000km) for $62k with M brakes, nav, sunroof and the 8-speed ZF. (Sylvania BMW).

My father-in-law owns a 2012 135i TCT convertible - which I drive often. I've spent a bit of time comparing the two cars so this might be slightly over detailed :P

First thing I have to point out is that both of us think the interior quality in the F20 is FAR better than the coupe. Layout, features, refinement, storage... much much better. Driving position is excellent.

If I recall correctly, the 09' 135i has the Steptronic and not the TCT. Comparing the two transmissions (he also owned an 08' 135i) the new ZF is better... it really needs to be experienced to understand how great it is when you're giving it. I might also prefer it over the TCT as it's also easier to live with.

I won't comment on power as it's subjective, and I'm sure you're well aware of how great the 135i is Like AusF20 says, a 6.0 time of 0-100 seems about right. That for me is quick. With a JB tune you'd probably be looking at 5.5? There is no 128i F20 - that 6.4 you quoted is for the Coupe.

In regards to the sound... the 135i oozes character, whereas the 125i leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion - and that's my biggest gripe. I was expecting the 2.0 Turbo to produce a much more aggressive sound under load than the 1.6 in my previous R56 Cooper S; it doesn't. Putting it in to Sport mode livens things up but it's more induction noise than a growl from the rear end. The engine sounds great from inside the cabin, but if you're wanting to turn heads with a screaming exhaust then you'd have to look at aftermarket options.

Hope that helps...
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      02-02-2013, 05:22 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AusF20 View Post
The rumours are that the M chip will be released for the 125i and 135i soon and that could take the 125i from 163kw to over the 200kw and give a sub 5.
The 125i is quick as it is. I think the real 0-100 time is closer to a flat 6.00
Is the rumour based on the M performance part or after market?? 200kw will be great!

You will not be disappointed with the 125i... I picked up a manual M sport and it is a fun to drive. I would at times make up an excuses to my wife (need to buy milk and bread in the middle of the night) so I can take the car out for a drive
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      02-02-2013, 05:40 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by frashed View Post
I've just gotten in to a 125i M Sport. Ex demo (4000km) for $62k with M brakes, nav, sunroof and the 8-speed ZF. (Sylvania BMW).

My father-in-law owns a 2012 135i TCT convertible - which I drive often. I've spent a bit of time comparing the two cars so this might be slightly over detailed :P

First thing I have to point out is that both of us think the interior quality in the F20 is FAR better than the coupe. Layout, features, refinement, storage... much much better. Driving position is excellent.

If I recall correctly, the 09' 135i has the Steptronic and not the TCT. Comparing the two transmissions (he also owned an 08' 135i) the new ZF is better... it really needs to be experienced to understand how great it is when you're giving it. I might also prefer it over the TCT as it's also easier to live with.

I won't comment on power as it's subjective, and I'm sure you're well aware of how great the 135i is Like AusF20 says, a 6.0 time of 0-100 seems about right. That for me is quick. With a JB tune you'd probably be looking at 5.5? There is no 128i F20 - that 6.4 you quoted is for the Coupe.

In regards to the sound... the 135i oozes character, whereas the 125i leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion - and that's my biggest gripe. I was expecting the 2.0 Turbo to produce a much more aggressive sound under load than the 1.6 in my previous R56 Cooper S; it doesn't. Putting it in to Sport mode livens things up but it's more induction noise than a growl from the rear end. The engine sounds great from inside the cabin, but if you're wanting to turn heads with a screaming exhaust then you'd have to look at aftermarket options.

Hope that helps...
That was great description and comparison! Thanks for your time to write that up!!!

I know a guy that is selling his 125i 2012 for is $55k with 9000km, is that something I should jump onto?
It has M Sport package, xenon, estoril blue paint, sunroom (which i had on the 130i and never used), Nav Business, PDC (front and rear), digital radio.
I like to buy well priced vehicles, so that when i sell them later, I don't loose too much. ( i think everyone does)

Last edited by Bruno28; 02-02-2013 at 05:45 PM..
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      02-02-2013, 06:06 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bruno28 View Post
That was great description and comparison! Thanks for your time to write that up!!!

I know a guy that is selling his 125i 2012 for is $55k with 9000km, is that something I should jump onto?
It has M Sport package, xenon, estoril blue paint, sunroom (which i had on the 130i and never used), Nav Business, PDC (front and rear), digital radio.
I like to buy well priced vehicles, so that when i sell them later, I don't loose too much. ( i think everyone does)
No problem! I should mention I also have f+r PDC.

$55k is a nice price... Your probably looking at circa $68k for that new. Be aware that the M brake package is separate from the M kit... Though I've only heard good things about the standard brake package.
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      02-02-2013, 06:08 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by frashed View Post
No problem! I should mention I also have f+r PDC.

$55k is a nice price... Your probably looking at circa $68k for that new. Be aware that the M brake package is separate from the M kit... Though I've only heard good things about the standard brake package.
Yes i know, but can always get it later if i really need. But i wont be pushing on brakes hard, there isnt much place you can push the car in sydney, there is cops and cameras everywhere!

it doesnt have the "Instrument cluster with specific gauge-dial printing and chronoscale" so its just the small rectangle screen. Is there a way to upgrade it later?

So its definitely a good buy? I should go for it?

Last edited by Bruno28; 02-02-2013 at 06:52 PM..
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      02-02-2013, 07:21 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bruno28 View Post
Yes i know, but can always get it later if i really need. But i wont be pushing on brakes hard, there isnt much place you can push the car in sydney, there is cops and cameras everywhere!

it doesnt have the "Instrument cluster with specific gauge-dial printing and chronoscale" so its just the small rectangle screen. Is there a way to upgrade it later?

So its definitely a good buy? I should go for it?
Very true about Sydney roads

Not sure about the instrument cluster... you might be able to retrofit it but I think it comes standard with the Nav Pro which could mean it requires a lot more than a simple swap?

I can't say whether it's a good buy or not - that's your choice
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      02-05-2013, 04:48 PM   #12
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Does the M-Sport seats come with inflatable side bolsters?
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      02-06-2013, 02:56 PM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bruno28 View Post
Does the M-Sport seats come with inflatable side bolsters?
Yes - the M Kit includes the Dakota Leather Sport Seats. Regardless of whether you have manual or auto adjusting seats; you will have electronically adjusting side support.
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      02-06-2013, 04:20 PM   #14
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Yes - the M Kit includes the Dakota Leather Sport Seats. Regardless of whether you have manual or auto adjusting seats; you will have electronically adjusting side support.
Great! thats good, makes a big difference for me, as it fixes me on the seat better.
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      02-07-2013, 06:23 AM   #15
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Does the mirror on the opposite side to driver dip down when in reverse, like other bmw?
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      02-07-2013, 07:11 AM   #16
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Originally Posted by Bruno28 View Post
Does the mirror on the opposite side to driver dip down when in reverse, like other bmw?
In order to have this function (in all BMWs), you need to have either one of the following extras:

1. Electric Seats with memery function

2. Mirror Pack (i.e. electric folding & auto dimming mirrors)
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      02-07-2013, 08:37 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by frashed View Post

In regards to the sound... the 135i oozes character, whereas the 125i leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion - and that's my biggest gripe. I was expecting the 2.0 Turbo to produce a much more aggressive sound under load than the 1.6 in my previous R56 Cooper S; it doesn't. Putting it in to Sport mode livens things up but it's more induction noise than a growl from the rear end. The engine sounds great from inside the cabin, but if you're wanting to turn heads with a screaming exhaust then you'd have to look at aftermarket options.

Hope that helps...
As above, this is my only gripe with the 125i.

I'm more than happy with the speed and acceleration of the car. When you get a chance to boot it on some nice open and twisty roads the handling is fantastic and the drive is very rewarding (although not getting the chance to drive like this at the moment as its so bloody cold and icy).

Ps the MP brakes are exceptional as well. Glad I opted for these.
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      02-07-2013, 06:22 PM   #18
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I have a 118i F20 for sale, no xenons or nav but attractively priced. It's no N20 but from factory it's only a second slower than the 125i. Let me know if you are interested!
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      02-07-2013, 09:00 PM   #19
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Originally Posted by clfive02 View Post
I have a 118i F20 for sale, no xenons or nav but attractively priced. It's no N20 but from factory it's only a second slower than the 125i. Let me know if you are interested!
Thanks, but i really want the xenon and nav. But what price you looking for?
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      02-08-2013, 06:25 AM   #20
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Thanks, but i really want the xenon and nav. But what price you looking for?
I was going to put it on Carsales for $45k ish in the next couple of weeks. At that price it will be the lowest priced 2012 Sport Line with leather/sunroof on there.
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      02-10-2013, 04:14 AM   #21
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God! The student grant system in Australia must be good. Students here can't even afford gears on their push bikes never mind brand new BMWs.

Anyway. I know I've got the d but I test drove a 125i. It was very good but as others have said, it doesn't make much noise. I had a 3.0 z4 just before the f20 so similar engine to that in the older 135i in that it has the correct number of cylinders. The noise of a BMW straight 6 is simply sublime. You would enjoy the 135i but you would feel slightly down about the dated equipment and interior every time you saw an f20. Where as if you bought the f20 you'd nearly always lust after a straight 6 howl. I suppose you could improve it somewhat with an exhaust and filter.
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      02-10-2013, 04:18 AM   #22
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Originally Posted by mowflow View Post
God! The student grant system in Australia must be good. Students here can't even afford gears on their push bikes never mind brand new BMWs.

Anyway. I know I've got the d but I test drove a 125i. It was very good but as others have said, it doesn't make much noise. I had a 3.0 z4 just before the f20 so similar engine to that in the older 135i in that it has the correct number of cylinders. The noise of a BMW straight 6 is simply sublime. You would enjoy the 135i but you would feel slightly down about the dated equipment and interior every time you saw an f20. Where as if you bought the f20 you'd nearly always lust after a straight 6 howl. I suppose you could improve it somewhat with an exhaust and filter.
BTW, I have never used any student grants or government help ever (not in school nor in UNI) and im on 4th year engineering! I worked for my money and saved all up instead of wasting on alcohol/drugs like most people my age.

Yes the 4 cylinder isnt that amazing sound as the 6 cylinder, but i guess ill keep saving so that my next one is a M135i.

Last edited by Bruno28; 02-10-2013 at 04:24 AM..
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