BMW 1 Series 120i Cabriolet Review: Roof above the head

So you think forking out close to $160k for a German cabriolet is a bit too much. Well, fret not as the other German, Volkswagen, has in its stable the Eos 2.0 FSI.

To be honest, the Eos has all the characteristics to outplay the 120i. Firstly, it has under its bonnet a 1,984cc in-line 4-cylinder turbocharged powerplant mated to a 6-speed DSG ‘box that produces a hearty 200bhp and 280Nm worth of torque – which is 44bhp and 80Nm more than what the 120i can whip out. Secondly, it’s 43mm longer than the 120i – making it more comfortable at ferrying three other occupants around. Thirdly, it comes with a more mechanically advanced metal roof which comes with a sunroof. Then comes the biggest crunch – at $149,800, it is some $9k cheaper than the 120i.

So, to sum it all up, the Eos is a much better bargain.

BUT is it really? Not so actually. Consider these - ultimately, the BMW has a bigger badge appeal than the Volkswagen. Not only that, but the 120i also has an overall build quality that feels much more solid when compared to the Eos. And driving wise, the 120i still handles better than the Eos – both with the roof up and down.

What’s our verdict then? It’s pretty hard to say, as both cars do have their merits and downsides. In the end, it boils down to how much money you want to fork out for a liveable cabriolet.

I’ll end it by saying this though - you won’t go wrong with either one.

Credits: Story & pictures by Azfar Hashim