GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: bogwoppit on 18 September 2023, 19:13
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Just wondered if anyone has made the change from a Mk7.5 GTI 245 to BMW 128ti?
Are you happy with the change? Plus /negative points.
Interested in your thoughts please, especially on ride comfort.
From a Golf GTi with 18" wheels (on passive suspension) to a 128ti on 18" wheels?
Is it fairly similar, or is the BMW as uncomfortably as something like a mk7 Fiesta ST?
I sat in a normal 1 series at the weekend, 118i I think, and came out really impressed with the interior, especially compared to a mk8 Golf.
I understand certain equipment will be missing that came standard on a 2019 Golf GTI, e.g. reverse camera, radar cruise control, rear armrest and probably more I've missed.
Looking at buying second hand not brand new.
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I’ve not driven one enough to comment, but I will give you some advice. Check how much it is to service the bmw at the dealer if you’re planning on getting one with warranty, since the bmw service costs can be astronomical even compared to other main dealer service costs.
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Thank you, I will look at the servicing costs.
One has literally just popped up at my nearest dealer so hoping to go and have a look soon.
Edit: Ouch just looked using a 128ti registration number (21 plate)
basic service - engine oil service with micro filter £297.19
Bigger service - engine oil service with microfilter, air filter and spark plugs £556.77
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I think BMW also do service plans, so it’d be worth checking out how much a service plan costs, the duration of the plan and what work the plan includes.
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Good Morning
Moved from a GTI TCR to a 128Ti
Originally gave the 128Ti a 7.5 vs 9 for the TCR, but having subsequently discovered the Sport + gearbox option raised that to an overall 8.5
Below is thread and review done in March with my revision from 7.5 to 8.5.
Really enjoying the 128Ti its proved to be an inspired replacement to the TCR and for those watching the ££ the 128Ti is really competitive, as you will see from reviews, added very little in options, all the must haves are standard.
It was very lively/torque steer out of the box, but put that down to grabby new tyres as that's settled down completely, though it's still lively in hand for the more spirited getaway and driving, but no tramping.
The TCR was 290 BHP and 128Ti is 260 BHP and there is no discernible difference, the 128Ti is lively enough for anyone.
Can only comment on the 18" wheels, but the ride is perfectly compliant.
The cabin is the real winner though, its a really lovely place to be and the media options and interactions with touch, buttons and iDrive Dial is superb.
Really loved my TCR and wanted to keep, and would if pushed have one back over the 128Ti, but only for its slight special edition status and trim, I would have the 128Ti over the standard GTI every day of the week.
https://www.vwroc.com/forums/topic/41457-time-to-decide-bmw-128-ti/?do=findComment&comment=648367 (https://www.vwroc.com/forums/topic/41457-time-to-decide-bmw-128-ti/?do=findComment&comment=648367)
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Thanks SRGTD and Hertsman for the info.
I've just registered on babybmw.net to have a read up as well.
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Ouch just looked using a 128ti registration number (21 plate)
basic service - engine oil service with micro filter £297.19
Bigger service - engine oil service with microfilter, air filter and spark plugs £556.77
Check out the service intervals though. Usually every two years for servicing so if you assume VW servicing is annually and circa £200 for year one then a slightly bigger one at year two with brake fluid change added on as well it might mean the BMW is actually cheaper to service *from new* if not keeping it for years and years. The caveat here being if you buy a second hand one try to ensure it’s not the more expensive £556 BMW service that’s your next one due!
I had an F40 M135i X-Drive back in 2020 and have to say the interior is leagues ahead of the Golf in most ways yet for some strange reason I still preferred a mk8 Golf inside despite everything.
On the flip side I preferred the Aisin(?) 8 speed auto to DSG which seems to be the opposite of everyone else so I guess I’m just a bit odd.
Moral of the story - have a few test drives and spend a bit of time in the 1 series before parting with £££££ as everyone is different.
I’d agree with Hertsman though - I’d take a 128 over a regular Golf GTI be it mk7 or mk8 but still reckon I’d be back in a VW before too long.
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Have a read of my opinion....
https://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=287230.msg2631169#msg2631169
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Have a read of my opinion....
https://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=287230.msg2631169#msg2631169
Really get what you stated about the seats, took me about 6 weeks to get used to them coming out of the TCR and thinking is they actually make you sit in a more correct position with a much more prominent lumbar, as have been on 300 mile round trips in perfect comfort, so for me its quite a change in position that been used to for many years in the MK 7 and there was some uncomfortable retraining as adjusted to the 128Ti.
Actually running a 2019 Golf R again now, and as move from one to the other, the difference in how seats hold you are noticeable, and both are good in own way, just different in how.
Did note you state about the exhaust and my initial review was a score of 7.5 with part of that based on that muted noise, but subsequently found you have to select sport in menu, and once in that setting, placing the lever to M/S actuated Sport + which is much more like the Sport setting in the TCR, the responsiveness and tone definitely go up a whole notch, and feels pretty aggressive if selected for the more spirited drives. But has to be in that sequence, select Sport by the menu button > Move lever to M/S. This moved my overall score to 8.5
Done nearly 8000 miles in my 128Ti now and given yours was a test drive, pretty much agree with most of your summary.
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Ouch just looked using a 128ti registration number (21 plate)
basic service - engine oil service with micro filter £297.19
Bigger service - engine oil service with microfilter, air filter and spark plugs £556.77
Check out the service intervals though. Usually every two years for servicing so if you assume VW servicing is annually and circa £200 for year one then a slightly bigger one at year two with brake fluid change added on as well it might mean the BMW is actually cheaper to service *from new* if not keeping it for years and years. The caveat here being if you buy a second hand one try to ensure it’s not the more expensive £556 BMW service that’s your next one due!
I had an F40 M135i X-Drive back in 2020 and have to say the interior is leagues ahead of the Golf in most ways yet for some strange reason I still preferred a mk8 Golf inside despite everything.
On the flip side I preferred the Aisin(?) 8 speed auto to DSG which seems to be the opposite of everyone else so I guess I’m just a bit odd.
Moral of the story - have a few test drives and spend a bit of time in the 1 series before parting with £££££ as everyone is different.
I’d agree with Hertsman though - I’d take a 128 over a regular Golf GTI be it mk7 or mk8 but still reckon I’d be back in a VW before too long.
As you will see in the photos section, we just chopped in that lovely MK 6 GTI for a 2019 Golf R, it was just a scratch, itch that would not go away and so actually have best of both worlds now :)
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Thank you, I will look at the servicing costs.
One has literally just popped up at my nearest dealer so hoping to go and have a look soon.
Edit: Ouch just looked using a 128ti registration number (21 plate)
basic service - engine oil service with micro filter £297.19
Bigger service - engine oil service with microfilter, air filter and spark plugs £556.77
Other things to note, is that some of the early 128Ti did not have the digital display and large media screen, just analogue (digital looking) dials and small media screen, the upgrade was a £1000 option, for me the digital display and large media screen are a must.
Second thing to look out for, is that due to parts shortages due to chip issues, some of the late 21, through to early 23 plates had deletions, for example, the rear ambient light strips were replaced with Led light under handle and indicators did not stretch across length of boot, but on quarter only, there is a thread on BabyBMW for deletions, so worth a look through and when looking at cars wish to buy checking physically with the dealer as the generic lists are not to be trusted,.
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I should probably add that since then I've gone to a mk8 GTI and 25k miles on (apart from all of the bloody software issues) the difference between it and the 128ti are rather less....I've got HUD (and now waze works with it too and wirelessly like the BMW), the seats are even better than the Mk7.5 were, the handling is super flat but equally ride is not spine breaking (unlike the BMW), DSG is super smooth, Zero (and I mean ZERO) understear and even the noise is better - definitely throbbly on the Mk8, fuel economy is excellent for a 245ps turbo petrol and the Matrix IQ lights are simply stunning.
So 128ti.... if you can stand the seats, better than a mk7.5 GTI.... Mk8 GTI... better than both if VW ever manage to sort out the software problems. Its a shame they really dropped the ball with the Mk8 - functioning as intended it really really is a belter. Amp it even further with the Mk8 clubby...
I live with the bongs :-/
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I should probably add that since then I've gone to a mk8 GTI and 25k miles on (apart from all of the bloody software issues) the difference between it and the 128ti are rather less....I've got HUD (and now waze works with it too and wirelessly like the BMW), the seats are even better than the Mk7.5 were, the handling is super flat but equally ride is not spine breaking (unlike the BMW), DSG is super smooth, Zero (and I mean ZERO) understear and even the noise is better - definitely throbbly on the Mk8, fuel economy is excellent for a 245ps turbo petrol and the Matrix IQ lights are simply stunning.
So 128ti.... if you can stand the seats, better than a mk7.5 GTI.... Mk8 GTI... better than both if VW ever manage to sort out the software problems. Its a shame they really dropped the ball with the Mk8 - functioning as intended it really really is a belter. Amp it even further with the Mk8 clubby...
I live with the bongs :-/
The MK8 has really caused me a dilemma as would love to have looked towards a ClubSport or R when the 128ti lease is at an end in 2025 but the risk in picking a used up without the software issues is too high, there is also the seeming promise that the MK 8.5 will address the MK 8 snag list, offering improved and stable software, improved physical button to haptic blending, and better quality to some of the identified hard plastics, which combined with the already improved ride and drive, will make the MK 8.5 as the only MK8 to have if not already a MK8 owner.
Problem for me, is newer means super premium price of 1-2 year MK8.5 will be out of my range.
Recently purchased a 4 year old MK7.5 Golf R as second car and as a long term keeper which has all the tech that could ever need as though it’s accepted that the MK8 is a better drivers car, the run out MK7.5 are the completed evolution of the excellent MK7x model and everything you get in terms of drive and tech is still in that excellent range.
So, with the MK8 out due to the concerns and MK8.5 out due to cost can see myself looking at what will be 6 year MK 7.5 Golf R or TCR with lowest mileage and complete service history when replace the 128ti, imaginr MK7.5 20 plates will be in bargain money territory compared to a MK8.5 R or ClubSport
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All new cars have got stupid expensive... Not to mention vw can't seem to actually deliver any in a reasonable time frame and I doubt the 8.5 will be any different.
If its not dealer stock you seem largely buggered all round and it doesn't look like it's getting any better...
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Thanks for all the comments and reviews.
I prefer the look of the digital display and larger screen, most of the ones I'm looking at seem to have that.
The deletions thing is a bit crazy, looking at pictures comparing 21 plates against 23 plates, I've noticed a few more things missing: drivers side small glovebox, 12v supply in the boot, metal trim pieces in the boot entry, the trim on the rear doors, but I think Hertsman mentioned that one. I guess the rear indicators can only be noticed by testing them.
I guess supply chain issues have caused problems for other manufacturers as well.
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Thanks for all the comments and reviews.
I prefer the look of the digital display and larger screen, most of the ones I'm looking at seem to have that.
The deletions thing is a bit crazy, looking at pictures comparing 21 plates against 23 plates, I've noticed a few more things missing: drivers side small glovebox, 12v supply in the boot, metal trim pieces in the boot entry, the trim on the rear doors, but I think Hertsman mentioned that one. I guess the rear indicators can only be noticed by testing them.
I guess supply chain issues have caused problems for other manufacturers as well.
Some of those deletions - e.g. small glove box, trim pieces - sound like they might be model year (cost cutting) changes rather than the result of supply chain issues.
VW also made a number of deletions to the mk7 Golf during its lifecycle - e.g. the plastic covers over the door mirror fixings, battery cover, under seat drawers, Isofix covers to name but a few (there were probably others too). A few pounds saved per car on the production line will represent a significant overall saving to the manufacturer during the car’s lifecycle and most of the deletions will be things customers won’t be aware of.
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I had a test drive in a 128ti yesterday, and it's an impressive bit of kit.
I cannot believe it only has 20bhp more than the Golf, because it felt a lot quicker than our Golf.
I've put this down to the ridiculously long gearing in the manual Golf, I think this is a 2019 emissions thing, as the earlier Golfs GTI's aren't as long.
It was dry during the test drive, and large throttle openings in the first 2/3 gears was lively, the steering wheel certainly let's you know the car is front wheel drive.
The ride on 128 was really good, and wasn't harsh compared to the Golf. The damping seemed more controlled though on the 128ti, and it cornered a little flatter. Driving the same road back to back in both cars, there was no noticeable difference in comfort, both on 18" wheels.
The noise in the cabin, it was significantly quieter in the BMW. This surprised me as the Golf seems fairly quiet anyway compared to other medium hatchbacks I've been in.
The exhaust on the BMW had a valve in the left hand tail pipe, so I assumed this opens in sport plus mode, but not sure. I tried all the modes and the exhaust note never became obnoxious, I guess the GPF kills all the noise.
The cabin itself was a nice place to be and seemed well screwed together. There also seemed to be a little more legroom in the back compared to the Golf Mk7.5.
The boot, on paper they are both the same size - 380 litres. Above the false floor, they measured roughly the same size.
The Golf has a decent space below the false floor, then it also has the spare wheel well.
The BMW doesn't have a spare wheel well, so if you want to carry a space saver, it will eat all the room below the false floor. Most of the space savers won't fit over the front brakes, as they are huge, something to bear in mind.
That's all I can think of at the moment, hopefully this will help others thinking of changing to the 128ti.
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(https://i.postimg.cc/WzHxprwm/IMG-7450.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Fk0TDYq1)
That’s how close a Golf boot is in size to an F40 1 series, that’s my Ed40’s boot liner sat snugly in my M135i.
The 2.0 BMW engine has a much more pronounced torque delivery which makes it feel punchy and flexible.
Nice mini-review bogwoppit, have you decided what to do as regards to a purchase?
Unrelated to your quest but worth a mention, there are seemingly quite a few 2021/21 plate mk8 Golf R’s appearing on dealer forecourts lately with low mileage in many cases and priced between £35k - £38k, some of them are even in the sub-£40k VED bracket too.
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Purchase wise, I'm honestly not sure.
Heart says get the 128ti, head says 320i.
Once or twice a year, we struggle to get all our stuff in the boot of the Golf, false floor in the lowest position and loaded up so you cannot see out the back, 2 adults and 2 teenagers.
This is the dilemma at the moment. I've not driven a G20 3 series yet though.
It won't be anything above a 320i though as the 330i and M340i are both in the luxury tax bracket. As we have 2 cars, trying to keep below that threshold on both.
Ideal world, one of each would be nice :smiley:
Thanks for the tip on the Mk8 R's.
Going to get a few valuations for our Golf GTI (22k miles, FSH, Leather interior and genuine 18" Prets) - WBAC and whoever else is worth a look. We could get by with just one car for a few months, whilst looking.
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This is the dilemma at the moment. I've not driven a G20 3 series yet though.
It won't be anything above a 320i though as the 330i and M340i are both in the luxury tax bracket. As we have 2 cars, trying to keep below that threshold on both.
Ideal world, one of each would be nice :smiley:
Are the 320i's not over 40k as well? Going off what you've said I'd have thought a 330e (even better looking in a touring) would possibly be a great choice for you, but again they're over the luxury tax band.
G20's are really well put together, only car I'd consider is a proper upgrade from the mk7.5, in the natural upgrade progression. Just don't let someone crash into the back of you or you'll have plenty of electrical issues for a while...on the plus side you get a m340i as a courtesy car :wink:
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I am a big fan of BMW's
But I couldn't bring myself to buy a 4 cylinder one as apart from a couple of examples (E30 M3 and a certain F1 engine) BMW 4 cylinder engines have been historically very average.
Also the newer 1 series is auto only and the auto box isn't anything special.
I do quite like the looks and the interior is nice though.
One other thing to watch is that if you go for a 320i they are fitted with relatively weak pistons and they don't take too well to remapping. Those in higher powered variants such as the B48 125i, 330i and 128Ti have stronger items.
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Purchase wise, I'm honestly not sure.
Heart says get the 128ti, head says 320i.
Once or twice a year, we struggle to get all our stuff in the boot of the Golf, false floor in the lowest position and loaded up so you cannot see out the back, 2 adults and 2 teenagers.
This is the dilemma at the moment. I've not driven a G20 3 series yet though.
It won't be anything above a 320i though as the 330i and M340i are both in the luxury tax bracket. As we have 2 cars, trying to keep below that threshold on both.
Ideal world, one of each would be nice :smiley:
Thanks for the tip on the Mk8 R's.
Going to get a few valuations for our Golf GTI (22k miles, FSH, Leather interior and genuine 18" Prets) - WBAC and whoever else is worth a look. We could get by with just one car for a few months, whilst looking.
I’d sacrifice a bit of a struggle a couple of times a year to not have to drag the weight of a big under-engined car around the rest of the year. Been there and indeed done exactly that before they flew the nest.
I’d definitely pick the 128ti as a slightly quirky but charismatic hot hatch over a 3 series unless it had a 6 cylinder. No, in fact I’d take the 1er anyway.
As for the Golf, I’d actually keep that in your shoes but here’s a useful guide to selling a car via the online trade buyers on the assumption that it’s legit.
https://youtu.be/fv9eOnUIRYA?si=ZhaWbSecAnwvswDI
Worth a watch.
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Thanks for all the advice.
The 128ti is winning over the 320i at the moment.
Interesting that the 320i has weaker internals than the others, that kills my I'll remap it later argument.
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How much extra would a 330i be compared to the 320i? I understand that they are relatively rare though.
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How much extra would a 330i be compared to the 320i? I understand that they are relatively rare though.
Looking at 2nd hand ones up to 2 years old, both same year, similar mileage and spec, I'd say the 330i is roughly £3-£4k more.
That's for an M-sport car with hardly any options.
On a car of that age the 330i's will incur the luxury tax whereas a 320i will only have luxury tax if it's been heavily optioned.
On a brand new 3 series, they are all luxury tax at the moment apart from a Sport spec in white (£39,605).
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The 330i is still a 4 cylinder fyi, they changed it back in 2018 i think.
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330i is the same engine as the 320i but has stronger, lower compression pistons that can handle more tuning.
Both suffer LSPI in certain circumstances.
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"thought he'd buy a hot hatch, ended up with a family saloon" :grin: :grin: :grin:
You have my sympathies.
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https://youtu.be/fv9eOnUIRYA?si=ZhaWbSecAnwvswDI
Worth a watch.
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Thanks for this link Exonian, it was quite interesting.
I used Motorway and I found the service really good and so was the price.
If anyone is a well looked after GTI Performance, manual, 19 reg, 22k, indium grey, vienna leather and genuine 18" pretoria's, my old one is for sale at a garage in Kings Lynn.
Oh, and I still have no idea what to replace it with
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https://youtu.be/fv9eOnUIRYA?si=ZhaWbSecAnwvswDI
Worth a watch.
Thanks for this link Exonian, it was quite interesting.
I used Motorway and I found the service really good and so was the price.
If anyone is a well looked after GTI Performance, manual, 19 reg, 22k, indium grey, vienna leather and genuine 18" pretoria's, my old one is for sale at a garage in Kings Lynn.
Oh, and I still have no idea what to replace it with
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Purchased a 19 plate Golf R for the wife recently and now having the ability to move between the 128Ti and the Golf R would say that the Golf R definitely wins on the drive, and the interior aspect is not as wide as imagined, the MK 7.5 cabin is equally a nice place to be, its just different really, and about the only thing would genuinely miss is the wireless Car Play.
Think the 128Ti is lift on the standard MK 7.5 GTI but falls behind the TCR and well behind the R.
Still find the 128Ti lively and fun, but its still little vague at speeds, not giving full rock solid confidence to push on certain roads, and still has random torque steer moments.
If I was buying at this very moment for myself, the cars be looking at are MK 7.5 R an S3 or a M135i in that order.
Would maybe look at a late MK 8 R in 2 years time when 128Ti goes back to lease company if as it seems these later models are the ironed out stable versions.
Hugely depending on finance, but would also look at a 20/21 plate RS 3 in 2 years time,
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Hi Hertsman
In relation to your comments. I changed from a Mk 8 GTI to a S3 in August. I previously had Mark 6 and 7, 2.0 diesel Golfs and a Mk 7.5 GTI. I don’t regret it, overall I prefer it. I did consider a Mk 8 Golf R and a Clubsport but was more drawn to the S3, to scratch an itch.
However, on the minus side, the Mk8 had features I miss. Blind spot monitoring, rear USBs and an air vent in the rear console. No wireless phone charging. No net map pocket on the centre console on the passenger side. Matrix headlights I didn’t have to pay a subscription for, nor a subscription for the software to read traffic signs. No colour changing ambient lighting. Most of these things for me aren’t important and could be specified on ordering. I bought a stock car with some extras. I have 19s, painted calipers, comfort and sound pack, which as well as an updated radio, gives me a reversing camera too. I also got a spare wheel and toolki.
As standard I have aluminium illuminated sill covers, the storage cubby on the dash under the light switch, a bonnet strut and an engine cover (that has some fancy red bits). It has leather upholstery with heated seats too. It is noticeably quicker than the standard GTI, which feels similar in performance to a clubsport, which I drove and considered buying before the S3. It has the advantage of 4 wheel drive which gives it a very planted feel on the road. It has a soundaktor which pipes the sound like the 5 pot RS into the cabin. I very much like it although I know there’s an EA888 under the bonnet. Oh, another benefit is software that works, although in fairness I didn’t have many problems with software on my GTi.
I think most people who have owned a Mk 7, 7.5 or Mk 8 could take to a S3. I can’t comment on the 135i, I’ve never driven one nor have I ever felt the urge to buy a BMW. Just not for me. It’s whatever floats your boat.
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Hi Hertsman
In relation to your comments. I changed from a Mk 8 GTI to a S3 in August. I previously had Mark 6 and 7, 2.0 diesel Golfs and a Mk 7.5 GTI. I don’t regret it, overall I prefer it. I did consider a Mk 8 Golf R and a Clubsport but was more drawn to the S3, to scratch an itch.
However, on the minus side, the Mk8 had features I miss. Blind spot monitoring, rear USBs and an air vent in the rear console. No wireless phone charging. No net map pocket on the centre console on the passenger side. Matrix headlights I didn’t have to pay a subscription for, nor a subscription for the software to read traffic signs. No colour changing ambient lighting. Most of these things for me aren’t important and could be specified on ordering. I bought a stock car with some extras. I have 19s, painted calipers, comfort and sound pack, which as well as an updated radio, gives me a reversing camera too. I also got a spare wheel and toolki.
As standard I have aluminium illuminated sill covers, the storage cubby on the dash under the light switch, a bonnet strut and an engine cover (that has some fancy red bits). It has leather upholstery with heated seats too. It is noticeably quicker than the standard GTI, which feels similar in performance to a clubsport, which I drove and considered buying before the S3. It has the advantage of 4 wheel drive which gives it a very planted feel on the road. It has a soundaktor which pipes the sound like the 5 pot RS into the cabin. I very much like it although I know there’s an EA888 under the bonnet. Oh, another benefit is software that works, although in fairness I didn’t have many problems with software on my GTi.
I think most people who have owned a Mk 7, 7.5 or Mk 8 could take to a S3. I can’t comment on the 135i, I’ve never driven one nor have I ever felt the urge to buy a BMW. Just not for me. It’s whatever floats your boat.
The 128Ti was my first ever go at a BMW due to mainly being the best and affordable option on my company lease system, the BMW/Mini were still offering good prices, cars like the R, S3 had completely disappeared from the system, despite being super affordable on last cycle.
So was sort of forced into the 128Ti, but glad was, its proven to be a really good car, great interior and connectivity, O/S is superb and its super lively, my only real down on it, is that it does not feel super assured at speed on tighter roads, and random torque steer is an issue. It's biggest plus was, that all you would really want is standard and it cost £35150 with the £1000 of options put on it, bit of a bargain when think most of the VAG alternatives will go in excess of £40k with same specs.
Despite it doing its family workhorse duties impeccably, averaging a 1000 miles a month at the moment, I have already decided keeping the 128Ti at three years is not an option,
Having had 3 Audis, the problem with them used is finding the car with options you want, and you really have to check as the generic spec lists cannot be trusted.
So, next car is for myself, and could easily just get a well specced 2nd R, know what getting, but for difference sake, will take a hard look at S3, an R and S3 would hardly be worst stable mates.
there sort of might, might not be bit more money in 2 years, to look at a 20/21 RS3 which would be scratching an itch never thought would be able to, my price point has always been in the echelon below, just too many other commitments to indulge though that's not quite what it used to be as that next echelon down is not really that anymore, as just received a flyer from VW for the R20 with finance and that is £59000!)
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We collected a 2nd hand 128ti yesterday, one appeared at our local BMW dealer with quite a nice spec and we ended up buying it :smiley:
Its 8 months old, 5k miles in Melbourne red which seems a rare colour for the 128ti.
The first owner specified the following options, the first two being the only options we really wanted:
- Parking assistant, so the reversing camera plus some self parking options
- Sun protection glass (tinted rear windows)
- Comfort pack, which is comfort access (keyless entry), electric boot lid, Electric front seats with driver memory, and a heated steering wheel
- Front lumbar support
- Panoramic glass roof
- Luggage net
This must have just squeezed it in under the luxury tax threshold at the time.
It looks fairly subtle in red, as the ti decals and highlights are all in black.
Not been very far in it at the moment as most of the roads near us are flooded at the moment, gives me time to read the manual.
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Congrats bogwoppit :cool: and don’t forget to take some photos!
Keep us informed on how you’re getting on with the car from time to time, and most important of all - have fun, it’s a fine choice of car.
Oh, and it has the best possible optional extra which is pretty rare on them…
…the heated steering wheel of course
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Thanks Exonian, I think its the first time in over 20 years that there isn't a VW group car on the drive :shocked:
Some pics:
(https://i.postimg.cc/9f6Fnpgm/20231023-124511.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/DWcTWqKH)
(https://i.postimg.cc/rs8TBY1k/20231023-124520.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dkSgd6NH)
(https://i.postimg.cc/nVkp4pxc/20231023-124528.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jCLpKVCG)
(https://i.postimg.cc/rsc4vcZw/20231024-155618.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LYChPdMc)
(https://i.postimg.cc/1tF0kv9J/20231023-124533.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/VrYbMB0C)
(https://i.postimg.cc/wvhycvcj/20231023-124611.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/k6gg77p0)
(https://i.postimg.cc/RZbcqkhg/20231024-155633.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mPCc56Q9)
(https://i.postimg.cc/C5N80t9H/20231024-155629.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/kR2GFjJB)
(https://i.postimg.cc/9fRy9LqC/20231023-124558.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/B8389cgV)
Oh, and the heated wheel is amazing!
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That looks great - very stealthy and cool.
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As dfm says, that looks great, the colour scheme works perfectly. Very nice indeed.
Enjoy having warm hands throughout the coming months 😁 and thanks for posting the photos
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Looks really good and the wheels are a good match. Not seen one in red before. Shape of car suits the colour. Forecourt pictures looks like Lincoln!
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Looks really good and the wheels are a good match. Not seen one in red before. Shape of car suits the colour. Forecourt pictures looks like Lincoln!
Yes, it is Lincoln good spot ! We weren't sure on the colour until we saw the car in the flesh, but very pleased with the red.
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Looks very nice, the best colour too.
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Thanks Exonian, I think its the first time in over 20 years that there isn't a VW group car on the drive :shocked:
Oh, and the heated wheel is amazing!
Seems we quite similar, first time in near 20 years not had a VAG group car and first time in a BMW and first time on the heated steering wheel, which have to thank Exonian for my cosy hands, as had not originally optioned it.
averaging 1000 miles a month in mine, since last Dec, and its characteristics did change noticeably in first few thousand miles, was quite tight OOTB is best description, but is super fluid now, and really love the whole package, super lively and great interior and comms/media, everyone who gets into it, always comment how swish it is and passengers have done many miles in seemingly good comfort (no moans whatsoever)
Its a well done direct competition to the Golf GTi's
There is a couple of minor demerits, but will see if you make the same comments after driven for a while and any questions, just ask, as pretty much have awareness of all the 128 behaviourals and features now.
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Thanks Hertsman :smiley:
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Thought I'd update this as we've had the car for a good 18 months or so now.
Still happy with the car, that's the important thing.
It took a while to get used to, as it's our first BMW and first automatic.
It's a bit better on fuel than our Mk7.5 PP, in the first year it averaged 39mpg. Best to date was from the M180 service station to Newcastle upon Tyne, 51.6mpg! Which is bonkers for a hot hatch.
I'm not a big fan of diamond cut wheels, so they got removed recently. At the end of last year I managed to pick up a set of delivery mileage BMW 18" 554m alloy wheels with the Pirelli PZero tyres. The wheels make the brakes look even bigger, which is nice.
What surprised me, is how much this improved the ride.
The new wheel/tyre's were approximately 4.2kg a corner lighter, compared to the original 18" wheels and Bridgestone Turanza tyres.
(https://i.postimg.cc/tCBSBScw/20241113-162743.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/D8bPZgnP)
(https://i.postimg.cc/bwM6hGpR/20241117-154014.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Hrw00kJJ)
(https://i.postimg.cc/7hs3ncLN/20241117-124633.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/H8M8p6XJ)
(https://i.postimg.cc/RVY13jyS/20241118-143410-Copy.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4mzHqFXq)
(https://i.postimg.cc/hjMTKwVq/20241210-084647.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/sQQvcTnn)
(https://i.postimg.cc/0jF6QqQh/20241210-084630-Copy.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/8fdkK9Lb)
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Interesting thread and car. I've only seen a handful over the years but really like the look of them. They're definitely on my list for the replacement of my 7.
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The new wheels look really good, very menacing!
Good to see you’re still enjoying the car. It’s a fine looking example :cool:
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Just moved into my last 6 months with the 128Ti as three company year lease comes to an end in December. Presently 27000 miles.
128Ti was a short production run, and you not see many, though unless kept the red stripe they are impossible to spot aside from the standard wheels, which were unique to the 128Ti. Sad to say I can spot a 128Ti on wheels alone :smiley:
Started to gently look at replacement, and really do not like the 1 series facelift aside from the sweeping single pane screen. Like everyone else BMW have ditched the buttons and the iDrive! which use for every interaction, its such a brilliant dial and now its gone! There is some questionable materials on the vents and the paddles also, so new 1 series gets a thumbs down from me and if looking for 1 series a used 128Ti would be a great buy, not least cars similar to my 72 plate at 27000 miles are being offered for less than 2018/19 Golf GTI and R.
After 2.5 years and 27000 miles think know the 128Ti pretty well, and its a really good car that has a couple of aspects that stop me from saying its great.
The interior is excellent, high quality, nice 128Ti red stitching mixed with the BMW Tri colour, the media unit, software and the range of button, dial, and touch options has you interacting with it with it seamlessly, without thought or distraction, BMW completely nailed it and have it seems in new 1 series, ruined it.
So cabin is a lovely, classy place to be.
Added the Maxton rear lip spoiler as my only add on, and just completes that sporty look, and car gets lots of looks, probably from BMW fans who can see its a little different imagine and wondering what it is.
The ride is good, can crunch lots of miles in comfort, passengers have made a few comments at end of longish journeys to that was nice drive, and its got plenty of pull, plant the right foot and it goes, feels as quick as my previous TCR (265 BHP vs 290BHP)
Now to the demerits,
I am super confident in the dry on pushing the car through same local roads that spiritedly pushed the GTI TCR through and the 128 Ti is comparable, but where had similar confidence in the damp/wet with the TCR, I simply do not trust the 128Ti is same way, the torque steer is noticeable and sometimes twitchy from nowhere. There is a caveat, as worst experience was on ageing tyres but was redressed near completely by a new set, but as soon as start to age the nervousness returns.
In summary on the ride and drive, as good as anything that is in similar performance bracket in dry, a fun, responsive, agile drive, but in wet, you have to moderate, unless on early age tyres.
Second knock is the noise, its relatively mute, no overruns whatsoever, and when put it into Sport + (Press Sport Button and push lever left) its more harsh than sporty. Our 2019 Golf R is way better, some nice overruns and nice low, deeper tone to exhaust in Race.
The last two comments are minor, the auto hold needs a sharp jab on brake to activate and rarely the gearbox gets itself in a muddle and there is notable delay between press and go.
Probably give the 128Ti an 8/10 really enjoyed my time with it, but not enough for me to want to buy it or get another BMW.
Great used car buy for someone though compared to other cars out there, would seriously consider one if looking at MK 7.5 or early MK 8 Golfs, as could get much newer, less mileage 72/73 plate 128 Ti for same or less.
What next for me? Really not sure, have eliminated a BMW, glad scratched that itch as never had one before, but one and done I think. You not get as much for allowance as used to, so have to see what's on there but toying with new Mini John Cooper Works form wife to mainly drive, quite like the facelift, always found Mini had too much going on in the interior for me, but like what they done, especially the new OLED center screen. However if a MK 8.5 GTI/R squeak into my allowance level could be tempted? Cupra? really not sure? expecting the email asking me to look and order soon as 6 months before return of the 128Ti.
ALso toying with just keeping money and buying 17-19 plate Mk 7.5 GTI, Clubsport, R
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econd knock is the noise, its relatively mute, no overruns whatsoever, and when put it into Sport + (Press Sport Button and push lever left) its more harsh than sporty. Our 2019 Golf R is way better, some nice overruns and nice low, deeper tone to exhaust in Race.
Thats the EU directive on noise for you.
Only old cars make noise, not new ones and its going to get worse as a further cut in dB is coming this year.