It would seem that true progress in the compact premium segment doesn’t necessarily mean a faster car, especially when you switch over from a rear-wheel drive platform to a front-wheel drive one.
So while both of these cars feature xDrive all-wheel drive systems, they are different to drive and were definitely different when it comes to their straight line abilities.
For one, the all-new 2020 M135i doesn’t have as much power as the old M140i, and you’ll definitely notice it. The first test performed by Carwow was a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration from a standstill. On paper, the old M140i is quicker by about 0.2 seconds, but you’ll have to watch the clip in order to see who won and by how much.
Also Watch: New BMW M135i Tries To Be Hip In Official Launch Film
The two hatchbacks also raced from a roll, underwent braking tests and of course a typical test drive, where the newer model was predictably more comfortable to drive. Still, any BMW with an M ahead of its model designation is about performance, and the M135i is only working with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit, producing 302 HP (306 PS) and 333 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.
The M140i, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.0-liter straight-six rated at 335 HP (340 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque.
Unlike the newer model, the M140i also features perfect 50/50 weight distribution and, if you happen to own a RWD model, you’ll already get to experience that sensation of being pushed out of a corner that you can’t ever get from a FWD car.
In the end, both small Bimmers are capable of impressing you in a great number of ways – some of which we’d never, ever guess…