Hi, I own a 120i facelift. The ride is good and the steering feel is great. The interior materials are great, the facelift did a lot of good stuff for the interior.
I think 1er is the only new bimmer that has a driver oriented dashboard. Today I drove 180km/h on the freeway and the car is very stable at high speeds.

My only complaint with the 1er is the runflats, they make noises. I will replace my runflats with normal tires.

And about 116i, the 116i is getting a new engine (more power, better fuel consumption) so wait for the new engine.
Also I would like to recommend 118i (143hp, just like your Benz) instead of 116i, doesnt cost much more and is just as fuel efficient as the 116i.

Here is my car:



Here is my first impressions with my car

http://www.germancarzone.com/member-...0i-m-07-a.html