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BMW 1 Series vs BYD Dolphin comparison

Compare performance (300 HP vs 204 HP), boot space and price (29,400 £ vs 29,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW 1 Series or BYD Dolphin?

BMW 1 Series vs BYD Dolphin: Key differences

BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • barely cheaper
  • noticeably more power
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • moderately lighter
  • marginally more trunk space
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BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

1 Series

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

BMW 1 Series is barely cheaper – starting at 29,400 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 334 £.

Dolphin

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW 1 Series offers noticeably more power – delivering 300 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 96 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 1 Series is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.9 s, while the BYD Dolphin takes 7 s. That’s about 2.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW 1 Series delivers noticeably more torque with 400 Nm compared to 310 Nm. That’s about 90 Nm more.

1 Series

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, BMW 1 Series is moderately lighter – 1,465 kg compared to 1,658 kg. The difference is around 193 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BMW 1 Series offers marginally more boot space – 380 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 35 L.

When it comes to payload, the BMW 1 Series carries moderately more – 510 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 100 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW 1 Series holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £29,400
1 Series

BMW 1 Series

  • Engine Type Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 122 - 300 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
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Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
The BYD Dolphin and the sportier Dolphin Surf share the same efficient electric bones, but the Surf adds visual muscle, slightly firmer suspension and sharper steering for anyone craving a bit more attitude. Inside they’re twins — clever packaging, roomy rear seats and a useful boot — so the Surf’s …
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
VS
The BMW 1 Series is a compact, driver-focused hatchback that emphasises sharper handling and a sportier feel, while the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a practical compact MPV designed around interior space, accessibility and family-friendly versatility. Choose the 1 Series if you prioritise engaging …
BMW 1 Series
BYD Dolphin

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series is a compact premium hatchback that injects a proper sense of driving fun into everyday life, with sharp handling and a cabin that punches above its class. It’s a great pick for buyers who want sporty manners without losing practicality, and yes, you’ll still get that unmistakable BMW grin behind the wheel.

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Reviews BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin is a cheeky electric hatchback that blends playful styling with surprising practicality, making it a brilliant city companion for buyers who want modern tech without the showroom bravado. It’s comfy, efficient and easy to live with, and while it won’t blind you with supercar drama, it will quietly get the job done with plenty of character.

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Reviews BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
Mark Kennedy
12 Apr 2026, 17:25:08

Absolute gem of a car, wonderfully smooth and powerful, along with being loaded with tech. By far the best car I've had. Would highly recommend

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
John Maskell
3 Jan 2026, 07:26:24

Loving the dolphin

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Atto 2
VS
The BYD Dolphin and BYD Atto 2 represent two distinct EV choices from BYD: the Dolphin is a compact, city-oriented hatchback focused on efficiency and nimble urban driving, while the Atto 2 is a compact crossover offering more space, a higher driving position and richer tech. Choose the Dolphin for …
BMW 1 Series
BMW X1
VS
The BMW 1 Series and BMW X1 share BMW’s driving focus but target different needs: the 1 Series is a compact, sporty hatch that prioritises handling and driver engagement, while the X1 is a compact SUV offering higher seating, more interior space and everyday practicality. Pick the 1 Series if you …
BMW 1 Series
MINI MINI
VS
BMW 1 Series and MINI MINI go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the BMW 1 Series or the MINI …
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3
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Comparing the BYD Dolphin and the Volkswagen ID.3 gives a clear picture of two distinct approaches to compact electric hatchbacks: the Dolphin emphasizes value, efficiency and clever packaging, while the ID.3 leans on refinement, driving dynamics and European build quality. If you prioritise range, …
BYD Dolphin
Tesla Model 3
VS
BYD Dolphin and Tesla Model 3 go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the BYD Dolphin or the Tesla …
BYD Dolphin
MG MG4 Urban
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As electric hatchbacks aimed at city buyers, the BYD Dolphin and the MG4 Urban offer practical range and strong value but differ in driving character and tech focus. This comparison highlights the key differences in range, interior space, charging, and driving experience so you can pick the better …
BMW 1 Series
Ford Focus
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In the competitive arena of compact cars, the BMW 1 Series stands out with its premium feel, sporty handling, and advanced technology features that elevate the driving experience. In contrast, the Ford Focus delivers exceptional value with its practicality, user-friendly interface, and commendable …
BMW 1 Series
MINI Countryman
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In the battle between the BMW 1 Series and the MINI Countryman, drivers are treated to a fascinating contrast of style and functionality. The 1 Series offers a more traditional BMW experience with its sporty handling and premium interior, while the Countryman stands out with its distinctive design …
BMW 1 Series
BYD Dolphin

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,400 - 51,900 £
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
427 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
112 - 173 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,465 - 1,625 kg
Curb weight
1,658 kg
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
345 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,800 mm
Width
1,770 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
475 - 510 kg
Payload
410 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
122 - 300 HP
Power HP
204 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
Torque
310 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
Power kW
150 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2023
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BMW
Brand
BYD
What drive types are available for the BMW 1 Series?

The BMW 1 Series is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.