Driving And Living With A Used 2014 Model BMW 118i
This 10-year-old BMW 1-Series delivers a little added attitude over its immediate rivals, the Mercedes A-Class and the VW Golf TSI from the same era.
Push the starter button (comes with keyless go and there is no need to turn the key here) and a muted engine comes to life. The 1.6 twin turbo engine under the hood is shared with the Mini and it is a willing performer with good manners. Remember, this car weighs in at just 1,390kg which means its rather nimble.
This engine is docile and friendly in city driving returning good fuel economy in Eco Pro mode. The ride maybe a little stiff due to the slim wide run flat tires which we have never been a fan for its stiffness, but it does the job well when you ‘stretch its legs’.
With the all new engine, lighter chassis and added drive technology, this 2nd generation BMW 1-Series provides a drive experience that will have your smiling on every curvaceous back road drive.
It is not only fast of the line, well 7.2 seconds from 0-100km/h in this segment and for its time is impressive; it handles neutrally and precisely tracks along leaving the driver with the impression that he could execute the corner again at a higher speed.
Additionally, the grip level is very good. This lets the driver apply much greater force to the accelerator pedal at the apex of a bend, which in turn results in significantly higher speed exit speeds out of bends.
Advanced chassis technology teams up with rear-wheel drive and an almost perfect (50:50) distribution of weight between the front and rear axles to give this BMW 1 Series unmistakable handling traits headlined by agility and dynamic excellence.
Interestingly, this 10-year-old has six airbags, xenon headlamps, fog lamps, rear park distance control, Driving Experience Control (Comfort, Sport, Eco Pro modes), auto start/stop, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and BMW Live.
Purchase Decision
If you currently drive an older BMW 3-Series, like the E36 or E46 you might be surprised to find this 118i delivering better handling and a better cabin fit and finish. Plus, it handles better. Yes, most of the engineering that sits underneath is shared with the Mini and this makes maintenance easier as there are enough workshops to handle maintenance.
Like any used car, the seller must show at least a year of maintenance records. If no records, then NO sale. Simple, seller must be hiding issues if maintenance records for at least 12 months is not shared.
Flood damage and insurance claimed cars (windscreen and accident) can be checked with the insurance cover note. If there is no loading and full ‘no claim bonus’ (NCB) then the previous owner has been careful with their 118i.
Test drive it to hear for noises and check that all cabin electronics work, even the horn. There are dozens for sale in the used car classifieds, but all with used car dealers who promise plenty. Best to buy from the owner, like this unit and get the full story.
Remember this. This 118i has depreciated by almost 80 percent in 10 years. So, you are paying only about 20 percent of its original value.
(If you are interested in buying this below pictured 2014 Model BMW 118i please contact us and we will share the sellers contact details…….asking price is RM38,000)
BMW 118i Specifications:
Engine: 1.6L Twin Power Turbo
Displacement: 1598cc
Transmission: 8-speed Steptronic
Max power: 170bhp @ 4800-6450rpm
Max torque: 250Nm @ 1500-4500rpm
Top Speed: 222km/h
0-100km/h: 7.2secs
NEW Selling Price: RM190,800.00 – Todays Selling Price About RM38,000
