2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe

Since its inception, the BMW 1 Series has always been a bit of an ugly duckling — there, steadfast, ready to perform, but simply too repulsive to seriously consider. Then, one day, (coincidentally the same time we received a batch of photos) the BMW 1 Series underwent the Mermaid Theory and we suddenly found ourselves overwrought with attraction. You may too. The Motorsport treatment is finally coming to the 1 Series with the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe and ‘ze German is lighter, tauter and rowdier. For the 1, BMW has tuned the much-lauded twin-turbocharged engine to generate 335 horsepower paired with an overboost feature that spins up-to 369 lb-ft of torque for short bursts — that’s good for 4.7 second 0-60 mph times. BMW has also made body improvements for aerodynamics and the wider stance, significantly revised the suspension, enlarged the brakes, tuned the exhaust, and added 19″ wheels from the M3 Competition Package. Further proof the 1 Series M Coupe is for enthusiasts: it’s only available with a short-shift six-speed manual.