2011 BMW 1 Series Convertible (E88 LCI, facelift 2011) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift (E88 LCI) is 1748 mm (68.8 inches) without mirrors. When you include the side mirrors, the width expands to 1919 mm (75.5 inches). This width with mirrors must be considered when navigating tight urban streets, driving through narrow lanes, or parking in compact spaces. Although the vehicle's width is typical for compact convertibles, drivers should ensure side clearances, especially with mirrors open, to avoid scrapes or collisions. The relatively modest width supports good maneuverability, but awareness of mirror width is crucial for safe, confident driving and parking.

The BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift (E88 LCI) offers a height that ranges between 1392 mm and 1423 mm (54.8 to 56.0 inches) depending on specific trim and suspension setup. This height is fairly low, contributing to a sporty and aerodynamic profile typical of convertibles. The relatively low ride height enhances handling characteristics, lowering the center of gravity for improved cornering agility. Additionally, this height allows for a sleek profile that not only aids in aesthetics but also helps reduce wind resistance when driving with the roof up, while still allowing an engaging open-air experience with the roof down.

The 2011 facelifted BMW 1 Series Convertible (E88 LCI) weighs between 1420 kg and 1680 kg (approximately 3130 to 3700 pounds) when empty (curb weight) depending on specific model and equipment. Its maximum permissible weight varies between 1860 kg and 2040 kg (around 4100 to 4495 pounds), which includes passengers, cargo, and fuel. These weight parameters influence the car's performance, including acceleration, braking, and fuel efficiency. The relatively lightweight nature for a convertible helps maintain responsive handling typical of BMW sports models. However, additional options and equipment can increase weight, slightly affecting agility and fuel economy.

The luggage capacity of the BMW 1 Series Convertible (E88 LCI facelift) is 260 liters (approximately 9.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their upright position. When you fold down the rear seats, the space expands modestly to 305 liters (around 10.8 cubic feet). This volume is relatively standard for compact convertibles, providing enough room for daily errands or weekend trips, though it’s not as spacious as traditional hatchbacks or sedans. The convertible roof mechanism does occupy some space, limiting the rear storage capacity compared to non-convertible variants. Still, the luggage space is functional for light travel and short-to-medium trips.

The ride height or ground clearance of the 2011 BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift varies between 121 mm and 140 mm (approximately 4.8 to 5.5 inches), depending on suspension setup and specific trims. This relatively low ground clearance is designed to improve aerodynamics and handling by lowering the center of gravity, which enhances cornering stability and sporty driving dynamics. While great for smooth roads and spirited driving, this low clearance means the car might be vulnerable to scraping on steep driveways, speed bumps, or uneven terrain, so drivers should exercise caution in these situations.

The BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift (E88 LCI) supports various rim sizes and corresponding tire dimensions, ranging from 16 to 18 inches in rim diameter. Rim widths include options like 6.5J x 16, 7J x 17, 7.5J x 17, 8.5J x 18, and 8J x 18, accommodating tire sizes such as 195/55 R16 87H, 205/50 R17 89W, 225/45 R17 91W, 255/35 R18, 225/40 R18, and others. Choosing larger rims and performance tires often enhances grip and cornering performance but can slightly reduce ride comfort due to stiffer sidewalls and lower profile tires. Conversely, smaller rim and tire combinations typically offer a smoother ride over rough surfaces but with marginally less sharp handling characteristics.

With a maximum length of around 4373 mm (172.2 inches or about 14.3 feet), a width of 1748 mm (68.8 inches or approximately 5.7 feet) excluding mirrors, and a height up to 1423 mm (56 inches or 4.6 feet), the 2011 BMW 1 Series Convertible comfortably fits into a standard residential garage. Typical garages provide at least 2.4 meters (about 8 feet) width and 5 meters (about 16.4 feet) depth, so parking the 1 Series Convertible is generally hassle-free. However, a few practical considerations include accounting for side mirror clearance (mirror width increases total width to 1919 mm or 75.5 inches), ensuring sufficient space to fully open the convertible roof, and leaving room to move around the vehicle inside the garage.

The 2011 BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift (E88 LCI) introduced subtle yet meaningful changes over the pre-facelift E88, including refined front and rear styling with updated headlights and taillights, and minor enhancements to the interior. Dimensionally, the facelift variant retained very similar measurements with length remaining close to 4360-4373 mm (171.7–172.2 inches), width around 1748 mm (68.8 inches), and a similar height profile. These slight updates enhanced the vehicle’s aesthetics and modernized its appearance without significantly altering size or handling characteristics. The facelift focused on improving technology and driver comfort, while continuing to offer the 1 Series’ celebrated compact convertible driving experience.

Compared to similar compact convertibles from brands like Audi A3 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz SLK, and Volkswagen Eos, the BMW 1 Series Convertible facelift holds its own with competitive exterior dimensions—length approximately 4.36 meters (14.3 feet), width 1.75 meters (5.7 feet), and low height (about 1.4 meters or 4.6 feet). Its 260-liter (9.2 cubic feet) luggage capacity with seats up is decent but tends toward the lower end compared to some rivals that may offer slightly larger boot space. The E88’s compact size emphasizes sporty handling and urban maneuverability. Its mix of premium interior quality, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and convertible practicality positions it well for drivers who value spirited driving combined with stylish open-top motoring in a manageable footprint.