You'd be forgiven for assuming that pain and suffering of the human kind must accompany such asphalt athletics. The 135i Cabriolet presents with a ride far more forgiving than its pavement searing handling would suggest. In fact, I was quite surprised at the comfort level imparted to flesh and bone. Unlike some high achievers, this car's ride quality doesn't wear you down with a constant refrain of bump and thump.

The 135i Cabriolet presents with a ride far more forgiving than its pavement searing handling would suggest.

135i Cabriolet - shear sunny day pleasure
BMW's formidable little soft-top proves that automotive Nirvana does exist, as elusive and expensive as it may be. When loaded with options, the 135i MSRP nips at the heels of the bigger 335i. I'd have a hard time picking between the two if I were in that financial ballpark.

If my bank manager were flying with Prozac-induced generosity, I'd opt for the 335i. I think it's a better looking, better-proportioned car. Plus, it would give rear seat passengers less reason to whine, (and isn't that why they're there to begin with?). Although with city congestion becoming infinitely worse, the smaller footprint of the 135i and its extra dose of agility would add to its city-life practicality.


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell