The sporty convertible had a controversial exterior design with inspiration drew from the iconic BMW 2002, with sculpted sporty lines and dominating panels.
Sharing most of its mechanical components with the 3-Series, that Series 1 offered a precise handling and great ride comfort.

The Series 1 convertible was available in two trim levels, the 128i and the 135i.

Standard equipment offered with the 128i included 17-inch alloys, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 10-speaker audio system and a power-operated soft top.

The 128i equipped with Series 1 with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine that produced 230 hp and 200 pound-feet of torque.

Stepping up to the 135i trim level, the standard equipment included a tweaked suspension, 18-inch alloys, a sunroof, xenon headlights and automatic climate control, besides the features of the 128i.

Stand-alone options included a Moonlight Black soft top, leather upholstery with sun-reflective treatment (designed to reduce the seat’s surface temperature by up to 20 degrees).

Numerous optionals bundled into packages were available for both trim levels, adding from sport seats, a sport suspension, upgraded interior trim, mood lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, leather upholstery, a navigation system, a premium audio system to a rear parking assist system and heated front seats.

The 135i trim level offered a more powerful unit, a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder that cranked out 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft of torque.

Safety wise, standard equipment included antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, from-seat side airbags and pop-up rollover hoops.