The inscription etched into the satin nickel trim surrounding the engine start button reads “Year one of the 1.”  Those four words and one special number remind U.S. drivers that their wait is finally over.  Now, we, too, can enjoy what Europeans have had for years: the thrill of driving and owning a BMW convertible that costs under $35,000.

A blast to drive, the quick, nimble $33,100 128i is powered by the same silky-smooth, high-revving 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine found in the heavier, much larger and more expensive $43,200 328i convertible.  A relatively long wheelbase measuring more than 8.5 feet and an ideal 50/50 weight distribution lend the 128i its agile on-road driving manners. 

Whether driving through mountain switchbacks or through the Hartsfield-Jackson long-term parking lot, the best way to enjoy the 128i’s 230 horsepower is to equip it with BMW’s six-speed manual transmission.  Configured as such, the 128i sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, certainly not lightning fast, but powerful enough to pass most cars off the line.  With such a small car, one would expect superb fuel economy. Sadly, this is not the case.  The EPA rates the 128i at just 18/28 mpg city/highway driving.

Slide into the driver’s seat, and the 128i’s purpose becomes clear: It’s a BMW distilled to its purest form.  No frills or fancy electronics gadgets, the 128i’s interior is sporty, practical and ergonomic.  The rear seat fits just two passengers, yet offers sufficient legroom.  With the soft top up, the 128i can fit two golf bags in its 10.7 cubic foot trunk, and, when lowered, it holds 9.1 cubic feet. This is almost 2 cubic feet more than the Mercedes-Benz SL can hold with its top folded.

The 128i arrives in Atlanta this month, when you can expect many eager buyers thrilled at the opportunity to plunk down less than $40k for the privilege of owning a BMW.  Plus, don’t forget, included in the price is BMW’s top-notch, no-cost maintenance program. This added perk significantly defrays the total cost of ownership, making the 128i an even more attractive proposition.

Bottom line: Fun to drive, comfortable and reasonably priced, the BMW 128i is a no-brainer.

Fast Facts

Starting MSRP

$33,100

Engine

3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder

Horsepower

230 @ 6,500 rpm

Torque

200 lb.-ft. @ 2,750 rpm

0-60 mph

6.4 Seconds

Fuel Economy

City: 18 mpg

Highway: 28 mpg

From top to topless

22 seconds