Since its launch in 2004, the BMW 1 Series has delivered the German brand's signature driving thrills in a compact, affordable package, but it's the special models – like the 1M and M135i – that keep enthusiasts coming back.

No other small hot hatch could compete with the 1 Series' rear-wheel drive layout, with the likes of the VW Golf GTI and Audi S3 feeling numb in comparison.

The Mighty 1M Coupe

The legendary BMW 1 Series M Coupe, affectionately known as the "1M", is a limited production pocket rocket, built from 2011-2012 with the N54 twin-turbo inline-6 from the Z4 sDrive35is, pumping out 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

Other upgrades over the standard 1 Series Coupe include a widened track, an uprated slick 6-speed manual, and a near-perfect weight balance for epic handling.

0-60 mph took just 4.7 seconds, and playful dynamics made it an instant classic, highly prized by collectors today.

Racy 135i Variants

The 1M may be the ultimate 1 Series from that generation, but its closely related siblings, the 135i Coupe and Convertible, offer collectability as well.

The 135i brought 300 hp to the table with the N54, later upgraded to the N55 single turbo with more torque - sport suspension, bigger brakes, and an available 7-speed DCT made the 135i a formidable performer in its own right.

For the 2013 model year only, BMW offered the 135is with an uprated 320 hp engine and handling upgrades – a fitting farewell to the E82 generation.

Hot Hatch 130i

Not to be overlooked is the original hot 1 Series hatch—the E81/E87 130i. The 130i was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.0L inline-6, making 258 hp.

That silky smooth engine, combined with the taut chassis and 6-speed manual, made the 130i one of its era's most engaging and best-sounding hot hatches. Well-kept examples are now highly prized.

The Forgotten 123d

A real sleeper in the 1 Series lineup was the 2007-2011 123d, which had a potent twin-turbo 2.0L diesel four-cylinder and BMW's excellent chassis tuning.

201 hp and a hefty 295 lb-ft of torque meant the 123d could scoot to 60 mph in under 7 seconds while sipping fuel. It may not have the outright punch of the 135i, but the 123d is a unique and underrated hot 1 Series.

M140i: The Modern Classic

BMW unleashed the M140i in 2016 as part of the F20 1 Series generation. Essentially a detuned M2 engine, the M140i's B58 turbo inline-6 cranked out 335 hp, good for 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds with the 8-speed automatic.

Newer versions have sportier BMW 1 Series bumpers and headlights and more desirable technologies like digital cockpits.

The M140i maintained a rear-wheel drive layout, making it an engaging and playful handler. As the last RWD hot 1 Series, the M140i will surely be a future classic.

You can't go wrong with an older-gen M135i either – these have an older engine variant than M140i models, but they are just as characterful and fun to drive. Keep your eyes peeled on used listings and try to snag a low mileage example.