BMW 1 Series vs Abarth 695
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW 1 Series starts from $57,600 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 695 opens at $48,369. That makes the Abarth 695 the more affordable entry point by $9,231.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $63,360 and $53,206 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW 1 Series and Abarth 695 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW 1 Series packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 2 in the Abarth 695.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW 1 Series and 7 in the Abarth 695.
Feature Showdown
The BMW 1 Series features a 10.7-inch touchscreen, while the Abarth 695 gets a 7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW 1 Series stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging that you will not find on the Abarth 695. The Abarth 695 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW 1 Series uses a Petrol producing 115kW and 230Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The Abarth 695 responds with a Turbo T-Jet making 132kW and 250Nm, paired to a 5-speed manual driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.
The Abarth 695 has the clear power advantage at 132kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the Abarth 695 is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW 1 Series measures 4,369mm long on a 2,670mm wheelbase, 712mm longer than the Abarth 695 at 3,657mm (2,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW 1 Series generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 380L in the BMW 1 Series and 185L in the Abarth 695, giving the BMW 1 Series a 195L advantage. The BMW 1 Series seats 5 vs 4.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.3m to 10.8m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 9.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,796/year for the BMW 1 Series and $1,710/year for the Abarth 695. That is a $86 annual difference in favour of the Abarth 695.
Estimated annual total: $1,796 (BMW 1 Series) vs $1,710 (Abarth 695). The Abarth 695 saves you roughly $86 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 1 Series) vs 3 years / 150,000km (Abarth 695). The BMW 1 Series has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW 1 Series if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Abarth 695 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Abarth's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Abarth 695 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Abarth 695 will save you roughly $86 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW 1 Series has a clear edge. The BMW 1 Series adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
