[Gangplank]

I currently own a 2011 135i w/ about 95k miles, Ohlins R&T, M3 control arms, diff brace, and RSFB inserts ( probably need to replace w/ M3 or 2 piece version)….

I've done a good number of track days on motorcycles, but sold my bikes a few years ago, and i'd like to start doing them in cars.

So do I keep the 135i and use it or I can pick up a used 128 or 228 for track days and occasional weekend driving?

Looking at prices for used cars I can get a 2008 -2013 128 for $8k to 15k depending on year, mileage, condition, etc. or a 2014-2016 228 for about $12 to $16k.

128 w/ n52 (or n51) w/ 230 hp
228 is n20 is turbo w/ 240 hp

I'm aware both can be tuned to add a bit more power. 128 needs manifold and ECI flash, and 228 can be tuned w/ flash or piggy back box.

Suspension & chassis seems somewhat similar in terms building/needs for track. Both will benefit from LSD, subframe bushings, shocks/struts.

128 is hydraulic steering vs 228 electric but I hear it's quite good.

Obviously the 128 would be a manual. 228 would most likely be manual but the 8 speed auto is supposed to be a nice shifting unit w/ paddle shifters.

Open to input here?

So do I keep my 135i w/ DCT and add an LSD or get a lighter more balanced 228 or 128- and if so which one?

I'm thinking the answer is obvious - just keep the 135 and upgrade the Driver.

[rhop101]

What’s your goal? Just going to the occasional track day or weekend drive or do something more competition based?

Like you said yourself, running what you got is the best way to start. Then you can decide if it’s something you want to continue developing. The 135i has a lot of potential for fun track builds.

I’ve seen some sick 135 track builds across YouTube and a 135i in my BMW club chapter Autocross regularly takes FTD. it sounds like you’ve done a lot of suspension upgrades to this car already though it would carry over somewhat to a 128i. If I recall the 135s have upgraded calipers compared to the 128s so you should just need pads and fluids and you’re probably good to go.

I will say my lightly modified M235i (camber plates, tune) is a lot of fun on the Autocross course and I’m sure it’d be happier on track.

The 128i sport package or base,stock, is more GT focused. Out of the box a Msport upgraded 228i would be a bit more composed on track, but once you start modding all the cars need similar things. Though the cooling would be a little better baseline with the 228i. Your 135i probably is going to be more maintenance intensive but I figure would have more potential especially in the power department.

[Gangplank]

Originally Posted by rhop101

What's your goal? Just going to the occasional track day or weekend drive or do something more competition based?

Like you said yourself, running what you got is the best way to start. Then you can decide if it's something you want to continue developing. The 135i has a lot of potential for fun track builds.

I've seen some sick 135 track builds across YouTube and a 135i in my BMW club chapter Autocross regularly takes FTD. it sounds like you've done a lot of suspension upgrades to this car already though it would carry over somewhat to a 128i. If I recall the 135s have upgraded calipers compared to the 128s so you should just need pads and fluids and you're probably good to go.

I will say my lightly modified M235i (camber plates, tune) is a lot of fun on the Autocross course and I'm sure it'd be happier on track.

The 128i sport package or base,stock, is more GT focused. Out of the box a Msport upgraded 228i would be a bit more composed on track, but once you start modding all the cars need similar things. Though the cooling would be a little better baseline with the 228i. Your 135i probably is going to be more maintenance intensive but I figure would have more potential especially in the power department.

Great question.

Having done probably well over a hundred motorcycle track days I suspect I'll enjoy car HPDE & road course track time. Not planning on competition but it's possible once I get into it. I did some club racing on my GSXR750.

The 135 is a great car but I'm thinking I might like a manual transmission vs the DCT?

[rgriffin]

DCT will allow you to focus more on your line and inputs. Might be a good place to start and see if you feel like you're missing out not having the manual. I know for me perfecting the heel toe downshift into a hard braking zone took a long time to perfect in a SPECE46, and until I got it right I was slower than my competitors.

[MarcoZandrini]

I'd go with the 128 or 228 as they are more balanced then their 6 cylinder counterparts.

[jb-slow]

I would keep the 135, it has vastly superior steering feel, the electric steering in the 2 series is pretty numb. I really wish I hadn't sold mine.

[LanceM26]

128 on track is very nice

[rhop101]

Hey Gangplank,

Where did you end up? Did you take the 135 to the track? Did you end up switching cars?