What is the chassis code for the BMW 1 Series?
2 Answers
There are three chassis codes for the BMW 1 Series: the F20 is the five-door hatchback version, the F21 is the three-door hatchback version, and the F52 is the domestic sedan version. The imported two-door hatchback version of the BMW 1 Series is equipped with four engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, a low-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a high-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine. The headlight assembly of the new BMW 1 Series is smaller compared to the older model and incorporates the iconic LED angel eye design. The rear lights of the new car feature an L-shaped design with integrated LED light strips. The car's dimensions are 4456mm in length, 1803mm in width, and 1446mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2670mm.
The chassis code of the BMW 1 Series is the key identifier to distinguish between different generations, which I remember clearly as a car enthusiast. The first generation was the E87, produced from 2004 to 2011, mainly offering a hatchback version. At that time, it featured rear-wheel drive, delivering a firm and classic driving feel, like a little hot hatch. The second generation had two codes: F20 and F21. The F20 was a five-door hatchback, while the F21 was a three-door version, produced from 2011 to 2019. It drove more balanced and comfortably, with many additional electronic features. The third generation, starting in 2019, uses the F40 code and adopts a front-wheel-drive platform, with a more modern design and significant improvements in fuel efficiency and tech features. Chassis codes are like a car's ID, helping us quickly identify the year and production details—super useful for used car trading or modifications. I often discuss these changes with friends; the F40's handling is more user-friendly, making it especially suitable for daily city commuting.