The BMW 1-series is the entry-level model for BMW, but these cars still offer impressive power and plenty of tuning potential. From the turbocharged E82 135i and 1M, to the more recent F20/F21 M135i & M140i, each generation has a satisfying rear-wheel-drive experience.
If you’re here, you probably want to know how to get more performance, power, and personality out of your car. Whether you own a normally aspirated 120i or a turbo’d M135i, when it comes to tuning your BMW 1-Series, there’s a range of upgrades and modifications you can make to take it to the next level.
Performance Mods for the BMW 1-Series
The BMW 1-Series is a joy to modify straight from the showroom or the car yard, and you can make a big impact on its turbo engine with the right adjustments, unleashing more power than you might expect in these slightly older models.
Here are some of our favorite modifications for the E82/E88 (2008-2013) and F20/F21 (2012-2019) platforms.
Downpipes - The Foundation of Every Build
If you’re looking for more power, step one is generally to improve your exhaust flow. When you upgrade to an aftermarket downpipe, it’s less restrictive and allows the turbo to spool faster, giving you more power. It also creates a deeper sound from your exhaust, adding an aggressive sound to your BMW.
All GCA choices include OEM style flanges and the proper factory mounting points (no cutting or welding required). These are a must-have for those working toward Stage 1 or Stage 2 tune, helping unlock performance gains while preparing your car for future modifications.
Valved Exhaust Systems
If you’re really trying to make an impact on the road, and for any passers by, it’s hard to go past a valved sport exhaust. With valved exhausts, the sound of your car can be changed at the press of a button. Meaning while the valves are closed, the car remains quiet and smooth and when you turn them on, they produce an aggressive, powerful, sporty noise.
If you have a valved exhaust combined with upgraded downpipes, the results are even better. What you receive is this rare blend of daily comfort and exciting performance, all with no compromise.
High-Performance Intercoolers
If you’re adding boost pressure to your naturally aspirated set up, then a high-performance intercooler is a must.
These larger, more efficient intercoolers cool the air into your engine and prevent your car from overheating when you're driving slightly more aggressively. You will recognize more midrange power and more constant performance on hot days, even if you blast down hard on the throttle, multiple times in a row.
Charge Pipes - Strength and Reliability
The factory plastic charge pipe on the turbo in BMW 1-Series models is one of the biggest weak points, and reliability concerns come with whether this part is still on your car. These can eventually crack or blow off, especially under higher power.
Installing a charge pipe kit for your M135i (F20/F21) will allow for greater longevity and better airflow. The metal design is capable of higher boost pressure and silicone couplers allow for secure, leak-free connections.
It's a subtle upgrade, but one that offers reassurance, particularly when chasing high power numbers.
Cold Air Intakes - Better Breathing, Better Sound
Cold air intake, on the other hand, provides your engine with much more than that, resulting in increased combustion efficiency and improved throttle response.
Our intakes are engineered to fit in the existing factory settings, adding a slight, sporty growl when you hit the gas on back roads.
When combined with a tune or downpipe, a cold air intake makes your car feel more exciting, edgier and responsive.
Exterior Mods for the BMW 1-Series
With so much opportunity to upgrade the 1-Series’ performance, it’s only right to make it look unreal on the road. Visual enhancements can turn your BMW 1-Series into a totally different beast - so here are some of our favorite upgrades you can make.
Carbon Fiber Add-Ons
Real carbon fiber on the front lips, rear diffusers and mirror caps not only look premium, but they add a little less weight also. They add that M-inspired kick to your car’s look that simply stands out on the road.
You may struggle to find parts for older models, but if you do, carbon fiber trims really make a difference.
Black Kidney Grilles
Swapping out the factory grilles with gloss black or carbon ones is one of the most common upgrades for BMW users. BMWs already come with an iconic grille, but it also is the spot most will update to match their style.
Rear Spoilers
A small rear lip spoiler can improve aerodynamics and provide a more aggressive look without going over the top. Most spoilers out there will attach with OEM mounts or 3M adhesive, meaning no drilling is necessary - making them a simple and affordable upgrade for your 1-series.
Combining Mods for Maximum Results
Adding one modification to your BMW might seem incremental, but once you start to stack up multiple upgrades together, they can really make your car feel completely new.
Some of our favorite combinations include:
- Downpipe + Valved Exhaust: The ultimate upgrade in sound and throttle response (GCA unfortunately don’t have any GMW 1-series exhausts in stock at the time of writing)
- Cold Air Intake + Intercooler: To minimize temps and prevent loss of power.
- Charge Pipe + Intercooler + Downpipe: A “race ready” combination for your tuned or track car.
If you are looking to get a Stage 1 or Stage 2 tune, all of these mods together will help optimize the performance gains and keep your engine healthy.
