[richb811]

Originally Posted by burnsniper

While the 1M is very fast, it was really designed to be a brutal, raw, fun, and an analogue machine in a time where electronics, adaptable suspensions, etc. are becoming the norm. The 1M's performance has always been underrated by BMW (as stated in previous posts) to protect the M3 from a marketing perspective. I would expect that in side by side comparisons with the same driver and on the same day that the 1M would indeed be faster on many tracks due to its power-to-weight ratio and larger rubber. However, there are some features of the M235i that would make it faster on some tracks:

• Better Rubber - The stock PSSs are a significant upgrade to the stock PS2s on the 1M
• "Better Transmission" - the auto 8 speed is likely faster than the manual - even Chris Harris preferred it in his review of the M135i
• Better Aero - the 1M is about as aerodynamic as a flying brick due to its fender flairs and brunt nose (also gives it a unique character)
• Adaptive/More Compliant Suspension - the 1M has a very stiff spring rate that has been noted by some drivers/reviewers to make it perform slower on some tracks
• Longer Wheelbase - better handling on high speed tracks the ability to put down power easier (even driven at 5-6/10ths the 1M will have the traction control light flashing constantly)
• Better DTC/STC - longer development time (including the M135i) allowed BMW to better tune the stability control programs

Given all of this, slap some PSSs on the 1M and its likely going to be the faster car in the real world. Also, the 1M will always be better at this: