2010 BMW 128i
The 2010 BMW 128i is a coupe. It has a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine producing 230 hp (172 kW), with a 6-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. 0–60 mph takes 6.5 seconds and top speed is 130 mph (209 km/h).
ABOUT THE 2010 BMW 128I
The 2010 BMW 128i is the entry-level model in the first-generation 1 Series range for North America, sold as a two-door coupe (E82) and a convertible (E88). It uses the naturally aspirated 3.0-litre N52 inline-six producing 230 hp and 200 lb-ft, driving the rear wheels. This entry covers the six-speed automatic version; a six-speed manual was standard.
Where it sits
The 1 Series reached North America for the 2008 model year, with the 128i below the twin-turbocharged 135i. Unlike the five-door hatchback sold in Europe, the North American range consisted only of the coupe and convertible. The 2010 model year sat in the middle of the car’s run, which ended after the 2013 model year when the new 2 Series took over.
What it is like
The 128i offers a rare combination: a compact rear-drive coupe with a smooth, non-turbo straight-six. It is lighter and simpler than the 135i. Hydraulic power steering gives the car a more natural steering feel than many newer BMWs.
Practicality
The coupe has four seats, with a two-person rear bench that suits children or short trips better than adults on long journeys. The boot is modest but adequate for a car of this size, and the coupe’s long doors help when loading the rear seats.
Buying one today
Commonly reported N52 issues include failure of the electric water pump and thermostat, oil leaks from the valve cover and oil filter housing gaskets, and noisy hydraulic valve lifters on cold starts. Run-flat tyres, fitted as standard, can make the ride feel firm, and many owners switch to conventional tyres.
Rivals
Alternatives included the Audi A3, Volkswagen GTI and Infiniti G37 Coupe.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | 128i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2010 | Version / Trim | BMW 2010 128i |
| Body Style | Coupe | Doors | 2 |
| Seats | 4 | Ext. Colour | Alpine White, Jet Black, Black Sapphire Metallic, Titanium Silver Metallic, Space Gray Metallic, Sparkling Graphite Metallic, Montego Blue Metallic, Monaco Blue Metallic, Crimson Red, Chestnut Bronze Metallic, Le Mans Blue Metallic |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | Germany |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cyl | Engine Size | 3,000 cc |
| Power | 230 hp / 172 kW | Torque | 270 Nm / 200 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | 6.5 sec | Top Speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy | 18 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,660 mm | Kerb Weight | 1,375 kg (3,031 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2010 COUPES
Compared with other 2010 coupes in our database, its 230 hp is 35% less than the average 2010 coupe (352 hp), and it reaches 60 mph 1.1 seconds slower than average, and it is 15% lighter than the typical coupe.
| 2010 BMW 128i | Average 2010 coupes | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 230 hp | 352 hp (21 cars) | -35% |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 426 Nm (21 cars) | -37% |
| 0–60 mph | 6.5 s | 5.4 s (23 cars) | +20% |
| Top speed | 130 mph | 156 mph (23 cars) | -17% |
| Kerb weight | 1,375 kg | 1,626 kg (23 cars) | -15% |
| Engine size | 3,000 cc | 3,961 cc (23 cars) | -24% |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2010 coupes with similar power to the 2010 BMW 128i.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 BMW 128i | 230 hp | 6.5 s | 1,375 kg |
| 2010 Audi A5 quattro | 211 hp | 6.8 s | 1,520 kg |
| 2010 Honda Accord Coupe | 177 hp | 7.4 s | 1,450 kg |
| 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe | 175 hp | 8.3 s | 1,390 kg |