BMW M235i is the latest model to join the M Performance Automobile family. Its smaller brother, the BMW M135i, is also part of the same family and today we are comparing the two cars from all angles.
Since the M135i is built on the 1 Series Hatchback platform, its overall proportions are smaller than the M235i, a model built atop the larger 2 Series. The M135i measures 170.8 in (4340 mm) in length compared to 174.5 in (4432mm) for the M235i. In width, the M135i measures 69.4 in (1765 mm) and the M235 is 69.8 (1774 mm) wide. The M235i is slightly higher than the smaller hatch, 55.8 in (1418 mm) vs 55.5 in (1411 mm). Since both cars are built on the same architecture, the wheelbase is identical: 105.9 in (2690 mm).
When it comes to weight, the two vehicles are comparable: 3240 lbs for M235i with automatic transmission versus 3242 lbs for the M135i.
Both cars use the same engine, the N55 3.0 liter turbocharged TwinScroll producing 320 horsepower for the M135i and 326 horsepower for the M235i. Both cars have 450 Nm of torque (332 lb-ft) at 1,300 rpm. BMW M235i Coupe accelerates from to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.0 seconds. With Launch Control activated, the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is all over in 4.8 seconds. The M135i with manual does the dash in 5.0 seconds and 4.8 seconds with the eight-speed automatic.
TEST DRIVE: BMW M135i xDrive
Design wise the two models are quite different, both having their own design language for the kidney, headlights and taillights. Of course not considering the overall design lines of a coupe versus an hatch.
Both vehicles in our image comparison carry the M Sports Package.
While the M135i is not available in the U.S., the M235i will be available in Spring 2014 for the American and Canadian customers.
See more photos in the gallery below:
[Source: Bimmertoday]
