The BMW 130i Is A Rear-Wheel Drive Mega Hatch You Need To Own

The next BMW 1-series will almost definitely ditch rear-wheel drive, and while that makes an incredible amount of sense, we’ll still be sad to see the hottest versions switch to four-wheel drive. They’ve stood out in the hot hatch market, which comprises of only front and four-wheel drive cars ever since the release of the E87 130i.

This car packs BMW’s naturally-aspirated N52 3.0-litre straight-six, which churns out 258bhp and revs to a spine-tingling 7000rpm. The powerplant can send the 130i from 0-62mph in just 6.1 seconds, on to a 155mph top speed.

This being a BMW, it has a superbly balanced rear-wheel drive chassis giving an experience behind the wheel that few other hot hatches can equal. And with the associated trim and wheels that come with the M Sport package (which also includes stiffer suspension), it makes the normal, dull 1-series look the business.

130s have held on to their value particularly well, but with the oldest examples now nearly 10 years old, they are becoming more affordable. This one has done just 41,000 miles, has a full service history, and is up for £8500.

Go on, buy it and have some rear-wheel drive hot hatch fun. You know you want to.