E88 · 128i Convertible

What the BMW E88 Is

The BMW E88 is the convertible body style within BMW's compact 1 Series family, sold in the United States from 2008 to 2013. Unlike many rivals that opted for folding hardtops, BMW gave the E88 a traditional fabric soft top—keeping weight down and preserving the trunk space that helped this small BMW feel usable every day. Built on the same rear-wheel-drive architecture as its coupe sibling, the E88 delivered classic BMW proportions in a class rarely served with a longitudinal inline-six and rear drive.

For enthusiasts, the E88 represents an increasingly rare formula: an affordable, small, rear-drive BMW with straightforward mechanicals and genuine driver engagement. You can confirm a specific car's build details with our VIN decoder, and see where it fits in BMW's lineage in our BMW DNA overview.

The Models & Body Styles

The U.S. E88 range was focused entirely on the convertible, offered in four variants across its production run:

• 128i Convertible — the naturally aspirated inline-six model
• 128i Convertible SULEV — a low-emissions certified variant for applicable states
• 135i Convertible — the turbocharged performance flagship
• 135is Convertible — a hotter, more powerful send-off variant near the end of production

Engines & Drivetrains

The 128i models used BMW's smooth naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six, prized for its linear delivery and durability. The 135i and 135is stepped up to turbocharged 3.0-liter power, delivering strong midrange torque and serious pace in such a compact package. Both were offered with a manual gearbox—a key attraction for buyers today—alongside automatic options. Power went exclusively to the rear wheels, the hallmark that separates the E88 from most compact convertibles of its era.

Enthusiasts cross-shopping the era will find the E88's engines closely related to those in larger BMWs of the period, including the E90 3 Series and the E60 5 Series family.

Owning & Buying an E88

The E88 is a rewarding used buy, but treat it like any older performance BMW. Turbocharged 135i variants demand careful maintenance history—fuel system, cooling, and turbo-related components deserve scrutiny. Convertible-specific items, such as the soft-top mechanism and drainage channels, should be checked for smooth operation and water intrusion. Well-kept manual 135i and 135is cars are the most sought-after, while 128i examples offer lower running costs and easy ownership.

Buyer tip: Prioritize documented service, verify the top cycles fully, and favor cars with recent maintenance on high-wear items. A clean, well-cared-for E88 remains one of the most engaging small drop-tops BMW has built.