BMW 1 Series History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
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Model history available. Detailed year guides are not published for this model.
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The 1 Series launched in 2004 as BMW's entry-level model, initially as a rear-drive hatchback (and later coupe and convertible) — a rarity in the small-car class.
The North American market received the rear-drive 1 Series coupe and convertible (the E82/E88), including the celebrated 1 Series M Coupe; later 1 Series hatchbacks moved to a front-drive platform and are not sold in the US.
Body styles
- Hatchback
- Coupe
- Convertible
Notable special editions & performance variants
1 Series M Coupe (1M)
A limited rear-drive M coupe with a twin-turbo straight-six — a cult enthusiast favorite. The US 1M was a single 2011 model year (LHD US-spec built Mar–Dec 2011, 983 units). Source note: autoevolution / Supercar Nostalgia BMW 1M
Related models
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