2012 BMW 1 Series

BMW 1 Series

BMW’s 1 Series has always stirred up debate among South African hatchback fans, mostly because of the rear-wheel-drive F20 versus front-wheel-drive F40 argument. That’s not just pub talk — it genuinely shifts the driving feel, especially if you care about how your car handles on the N1 when it’s wet or snaking through Melville. Petrol and diesel options are both around, plus you get to pick your gearbox (manual, auto, or a halfway-house). Scan the market right now and you’ll spot about 30 used examples, nothing new, and prices are wild — from a wallet-friendly R69,500 to a "did they mean that?" R1,888,888. Most buyers should zero in around the R297,200 median, because that’s where the condition and value intersect for normal folk. On paper at least, the 118i M Sport grabs all the showroom attention. Four examples, priced R369,900 to R599,900, and the F40 models always cost more than the F20s. Makes sense — you’re getting a sharper cabin, a better infotainment screen, and the kind of physical controls you won’t need to squint at midsummer. If you pack smart, the older F20 118i auto at R179,900 gets you in the door without fuss, while the F40 118d M Sport sits temptingly at R449,900–R486,500 for commuters racking up kilos. Expect to see average mileage of 120,310 km, with models stretching from 2008 to 2024, so don’t skip that thorough inspection. Ultimately, those who skip the A-Class and pick the 1 Series do it because they want to actually enjoy the drive — and that's the point.