how can i get a bit more power cheaply? - BMW Forum

simon lavelle · 03-05-2012, 11:32 AM

hi just bought an e36 323i 5 speed in estoril blue with m body kit i know the 2.5 litre engine wants to do more any suggestions as to how i cam get the stifled power out without having to spend huge bucks thank you ps i am in australia

Lord Vader · 03-05-2012, 02:54 PM

What's your budget? What are your goals?

Most people start off with a Cold Air Intake (CAI) and an exhaust. After that under drive pulleys and the M50 manifold swap are the most common. All these will net you noticeable gains. Usually pushing you over 200-210 HP.

simon lavelle · 03-06-2012, 02:06 AM

thanks lord vader the budget is around $4000 your suggestions sound very helpful, the availability of parts is something i must look into in this part of the world cheers for the tips

Lord Vader · 03-06-2012, 09:06 AM

Wow $4,000 is a pretty good budget. Theirs a limited number of performance mods that you can do while still NA. After that FI is really the only option. However all of the NA will give you noticeable gains.

Jack Dabsy · 03-06-2012, 02:27 PM

Forced Induction, Stainless Exhaust, M50 Inlet, Big Bore Throttle Body and a Re-Map !!

Lord Vader · 03-06-2012, 04:55 PM

I have found BBTB's to be very expensive and not really worth the gains unless it's a track car. I would get one however the cost of them isnt feasible for most people.

Jack Dabsy · 03-07-2012, 12:51 PM

I agree with you on that one Vader... Maybe uprated Injectors might swing it eh?

simon lavelle · 03-08-2012, 02:42 AM

thanks for all the great advice i had the car serviced at 97,000klm last week also replaced the ac and drive belts we took it for an 800klm run last night ,the first time it has ever left the city i think it loved it the only thing is that it is making a sound like a belt slipping under 1000rpm and moving i have no idea??????,it was doing this when i got it hence the reason i replaced the belts.

Lord Vader · 03-08-2012, 09:33 AM

Dabsy I don't really think upgrading to larger injectors is worth it unless your doing a high compression turbo setup with a DME remap to compensate. With the added fuel going in you would definitely need an upgraded intake system. Possibly 3.5" HFM. At the point a BBTB would be beneficial. If you have a 325 you can upgrade the green injectors to the pink ones found in the 328 motor but it probably won't be noticeable.

Jack Dabsy · 03-08-2012, 12:36 PM

Not at low-revs it won't ! Hard to get a decent compromise when you start adding trick stuff !