VS

BMW 1 Series vs Nissan Townstar comparison

Compare performance (300 HP vs 122 HP), boot space and price (29,400 £ vs 35,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW 1 Series or Nissan Townstar?

BMW 1 Series vs Nissan Townstar: Key differences

BMW 1 Series

4.7 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • significantly more power
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • markedly lighter
details

Nissan Townstar

5 (1 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 often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

BMW 1 Series is clearly cheaper – starting at 29,400 £ , while the Nissan Townstar costs 35,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 6,488 £.

Townstar

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW 1 Series offers significantly more power – delivering 300 HP compared to 122 HP. That’s roughly 178 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 1 Series is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 4.9 s, while the Nissan Townstar takes 13.3 s. That’s about 8.4 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW 1 Series delivers clearly more torque with 400 Nm compared to 245 Nm. That’s about 155 Nm more.

1 Series

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Nissan Townstar offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, BMW 1 Series is markedly lighter – 1,465 kg compared to 2,041 kg. The difference is around 576 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Nissan Townstar carries slightly more – 594 kg compared to 510 kg. That’s a difference of about 84 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
details

Frequently compared as well

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
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
Nissan Townstar

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.

details
P90460899_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460903_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460910_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460951_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460954_highRes_additional-pictures-

Reviews BMW 1 Series

4.7 (2 Reviews)
rate

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

Nissan Townstar

The Nissan Townstar is a pragmatic city companion that blends clever packaging with a calm, easygoing drive, making it ideal for urban errands and small-business hauls. It won't win any style contests, but its tidy interior, sensible features and no-nonsense character make it a genuinely useful buy for people who value practicality over pizzazz.

details
Dynamic (12)
Loading (4)
Interior (1)

Reviews Nissan Townstar

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
J
9 Oct 2025, 15:40:28

A fantastic model with true SUV character. Noticeably more space, generous luggage capacity and a high driving position — just like an SUV — and, best of all, finally a petrol engine (instead of the diesels the competition offers), which is a great alternative. LPG installation is possible, too.

Frequently compared as well

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 …
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
VS
BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe 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 …
Audi Q2
BMW 1 Series
VS
In the competitive compact crossover segment, the Audi Q2 and BMW 1er Reihe each offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Q2 impresses with its striking design, advanced technology, and a more spacious interior, making it a strong contender for those seeking a stylish …
Nissan Townstar
VW Caddy
VS
When comparing the Nissan Townstar and the VW Caddy, both models stand out in the compact van segment with their distinct attributes. The Nissan Townstar offers an impressive blend of efficiency and modern tech, making it ideal for urban logistics. Meanwhile, the VW Caddy ups the ante with its …
BMW 1 Series
Lexus LBX
VS
BMW 1 Series and Lexus LBX 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 Lexus …
BMW 1 Series
Ford Focus
VS
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
Mazda 3 Hatchback
VS
BMW 1 Series and Mazda 3 Hatchback 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 …
BMW 1 Series
MINI Countryman
VS
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
Nissan Townstar

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,400 - 51,900 £
Price
35,800 - 37,700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
20.7 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
265 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
High Roof Estate
Seats
5
Seats
7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,465 - 1,625 kg
Curb weight
2,041 kg
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,800 mm
Width
1,859 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
475 - 510 kg
Payload
594 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
122 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
13.3 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
Torque
245 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
Power kW
90 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BMW
Brand
Nissan
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.