What Is Project 1?

project 1 bmw 135i upgrade

Vehicle: 2009 BMW 135i
Current Mileage: 79,000 km

Don Cheng bought his 2009 BMW 135i in 2014 with 54,000 km on the clock and for more than he would like to disclose. From there, Project 1 started with the goal to add-on to the original prinicple of the 1-series coupe, as a lightweight back roads dancer. We’ll work to improve the driveability of the car, performance, upgrade the suspension, exhaust, and perhaps a few cosmetic enhancements to make it our own. We'll document all the changes here on this page as well as on our social media channels. So be sure to stay tuned, and we will keep you updated. This is Project 1.



INTRODUCTION

 

bmw 135i upgrading project 1 canada

 

Introducing Project 1
April 19, 2016 / Don Cheng

We bought a used 2009 BMW 135i and are about to embark on an adventure packed with suspension upgrades, performance enhancements, and cosmetic changes. This is Project 1.

 



UPGRADES

 

project 1 rtd shifter review

 

Upgrade #5: RTD Shifter
July 5, 2017 / Don Cheng

Click, click. Project 1 gets an incredibly satisfying motorsport-inspired RTD shifter.

 



whiteline rear subframe bushings project 1

 

Upgrade #4: Rear Subframe Bushings
June 20, 2017 / Don Cheng

It's time to address one of the biggest limitations in the 135i’s handling repertoire - the rear subframe bushings.

 



alpha motorsports canada project 1

 

Track Day with Alpha Motorsports
September 19, 2016 / Don Cheng

CAYUGA, Ontario - Alpha Motorsports, an aftermarket company located in Markham, invited us out to a private track day to show us what they're really all about - the enthusiast.

 



neo motorsport purple dynamic coilover project 1

 

Upgrade #3: Neo Motorsport Dynamic Purple Coilovers
July 12, 2016 / Don Cheng

Project 1 gets a brand new set of lows from Neo Motorsport, a local aftermarket manufacturer that produces coilovers and big brake kits for various popular tuning platforms.

 



smart detail opti-coat pro project 1

 

Upgrade #2: Smart Detail Opti-Coat Pro
May 31, 2016 / Don Cheng

Project 1 gets a much needed detailing session from the pros at Smart Detail.

 



raceseng ashiko gear knob project 1

 

Upgrade #1: Raceseng Ashiko Gear Knob
April 20, 2016 / Don Cheng

A solid investment if you’re looking for a heavier knob that looks beautiful, feels great in the hand, and serves a functional purpose.