BMW Performance Mods

[ryvinson]

Was caught in a dilemna for past few days over fitting Euro/Asian or US version of air intake system. Yup. Lost sleep! Combed Bimmer forums/websites extensively and concluded that EuroAsian version is the one to fit for our cars. No brainer I know but the US version was more appealing as it's more different than stock compared to Asian version. Even US Bimmer nut cases fit the Euro/Asian version. They consider the Euro/Asian cone shaped filter more superior than the flat US version as the former is less restrictive allowing more air in, and more robust with its steel mesh construction. Ahhhh...sweet relief! And cost was only 3.5k!Will input my thoughts on fitting the BMW Perf exhaust, brake system, suspension and the works. In interim, any comments from those who have fitted either US or Euro air intake systems? Would be pleased to hear from you.Cheers.

 

[Juan Powerblow]

E46F and I have done the Euro version of the air intake. We love it! For me, the improvement in throttle response was very noticeable but more keenly appreciated is the sound it makes when accelerating from the toll booth and at higher rpms. Worth every penny.

I have ordered the US spec BMW Performance exhaust system. As you might already be aware, the Euro version of the exhaust is only a rear silencer while the US version is a bit more elaborate, and hopefully, comes with better performance i.e. I am hoping to get even better throttle response, not just for the sound.

RM3.5k is ridiculously cheap, a bit less than what I paid and I thought I got a good price. Care to share how you got this price?

 

[E46Fanatic]

Its a great mod. I love the sound of it, its just so sweet. Also performance wise, its proven to give your car a pretty good edge over the stock E90 325i. Ya RM3.5k is very cheap. Share your "lubang" with us .

 

[Juan Powerblow]

ryvinson, we're waiting...

Oh, when are you installing the exhaust? Would love to compare notes once I do mine in 2 weeks time.

 

[ryvinson]

Congrats JPB, e46! You did the right thing! Agree unreservedly the air intake is the best bang-for-bucks in the BMW Perf range. That magic transformation in the engine bay with the BMW Perf inscribed in carbon fiber is to die for. Man, if only they sell that CF cover....alone....!

For those who intend to fit the air intake, the Euro/Asian version has the P/N ending "750", and US version ending "751". I'd say "yay!" to the Euro/Asian version but you may have your good reasons for the US one....again like to hear from those who have got the Yankee type.

Regret can't reveal "lubang" as there're non AD vendors out there with air intake stocks now. Want to keep my peace and goodwill with them. They're good guys making an honest living like most of us....sorry "all" of us.....

Yes, next burning item on my agenda is the exhaust system. Big problem looms. More self deprived sleep ahead. BMW Perf only configures exhaust system for the 328i and 330i, that is, for 3.0 lit US engines....that's also reason for different air intake systems. Oh bruddderrrr.....don't they have an Euro/Asian version? Knowing Teutonic inscrutability, is Bimmer saying anything less than 3.0 litre humming under bonnet won't need a more aggressive breathing discharge in a performance exhaust? Hmmmmm.....yes, am aware that the exhaust system can be gently "forced fitted" but from my purist standpoint, it needs to be fit like a glove. And hence my little obsession over the US v Asian air intake systems. Additionally, the exhaust system will be well over 5k for 2 twin (no change) pipes.....major benefit for 320s but not for straight sixes. No brainer that more 320s fit the exhaust system than straight sixes. If system came with quad exhaust, would be tempted to overlook that "forced" fit. So looks like no-go for me. Your thoughts JPB and those hankering for that exhaust? Or anyone who has fitted them? My other issue is warrantly void if any add-ons don't satisfy tech specs....and the exhaust doesn't....

So far into my BMW Perf oddyssey, have fitted the 19" rims (awesome, awesome!). And the aluminium pedals including a footrest only for the US market..see they're getting all the goodies again.... for putting the world into a financial and economic tailspin....nay! I really love the Perf range of stuff as they were strictly customized for 1 and 3 series....even the workshop guys who fit the stuff marvel how well the Perf mods fit glove-like with the existing setup. With careful research and shopping aided by present slowdown and slow moving stocks, the Perf stuff are not as pricey as before...even ADs are being flexible with prices. As they fit so well, they can be dismantled very easily when de-modding when selling car. So yup, I'm keeping the stock items. Sorry for my rant of the day....

Cheers!

 

[E46Fanatic]

Good stuff. I have the Performance brakes fitted too and its a must have for your 19' setup. Anyway, we should do a group buy through you in the future since your lubang is much better than my lubang

btw, your nick is very familiar. Is your name Robert by any chance?

 

[Juan Powerblow]

Congrats JPB, e46! You did the right thing! Agree unreservedly the air intake is the best bang-for-bucks in the BMW Perf range. That magic transformation in the engine bay with the BMW Perf inscribed in carbon fiber is to die for. Man, if only they sell that CF cover....alone....!

For those who intend to fit the air intake, the Euro/Asian version has the P/N ending "750", and US version ending "751". I'd say "yay!" to the Euro/Asian version but you may have your good reasons for the US one....again like to hear from those who have got the Yankee type.

Regret can't reveal "lubang" as there're non AD vendors out there with air intake stocks now. Want to keep my peace and goodwill with them. They're good guys making an honest living like most of us....sorry "all" of us.....

Yes, next burning item on my agenda is the exhaust system. Big problem looms. More self deprived sleep ahead. BMW Perf only configures exhaust system for the 328i and 330i, that is, for 3.0 lit US engines....that's also reason for different air intake systems. Oh bruddderrrr.....don't they have an Euro/Asian version? Knowing Teutonic inscrutability, is Bimmer saying anything less than 3.0 litre humming under bonnet won't need a more aggressive breathing discharge in a performance exhaust? Hmmmmm.....yes, am aware that the exhaust system can be gently "forced fitted" but from my purist standpoint, it needs to be fit like a glove. And hence my little obsession over the US v Asian air intake systems. Additionally, the exhaust system will be well over 5k for 2 twin (no change) pipes.....major benefit for 320s but not for straight sixes. No brainer that more 320s fit the exhaust system than straight sixes. If system came with quad exhaust, would be tempted to overlook that "forced" fit. So looks like no-go for me. Your thoughts JPB and those hankering for that exhaust? Or anyone who has fitted them? My other issue is warrantly void if any add-ons don't satisfy tech specs....and the exhaust doesn't....

So far into my BMW Perf oddyssey, have fitted the 19" rims (awesome, awesome!). And the aluminium pedals including a footrest only for the US market..see they're getting all the goodies again.... for putting the world into a financial and economic tailspin....nay! I really love the Perf range of stuff as they were strictly customized for 1 and 3 series....even the workshop guys who fit the stuff marvel how well the Perf mods fit glove-like with the existing setup. With careful research and shopping aided by present slowdown and slow moving stocks, the Perf stuff are not as pricey as before...even ADs are being flexible with prices. As they fit so well, they can be dismantled very easily when de-modding when selling car. So yup, I'm keeping the stock items. Sorry for my rant of the day....

Cheers!

Thanks so much bro for your input. With regards to the exhaust, 2 forumers have already fitted 'em here in KL with no complaints so far. Yes, they required some welding and cutting but apparently, it's a simple job and I for one am not aversed to welding having done exhaust mods on my earlier cars with no problems. Please refer to the Type of Mods on E90 thread for more feedback which you might find helpful.

 

[BMWs]

Bros',

Just to double check on the BMW performance air intake system Euro/Asian version. I've read, seen pictures and even felt the actual unit of it and still don't understand how can it increase in BHP apart from the K&N filter that comes with it.

The system is connected to the original intake at the kidney grill and the box is slightly more hexagon than the original. So the air flow is roughly still the same.

I have fitted mine with just K&N drop in (cone) and performance is of course better than stock and theres a slight increase in sound when touch 2.5k - 3k rpm.

Cheers

 

[ryvinson]

E46 - brakes not priority for now. Big bucks 15k plus will not justify benefits and other priorities....even though my see-thru 269 double-spoke 19" rims would maximize the yellow BM Perf words to full effect! Instead of dry, nondescript "group" buy, more reflectively kinky to dub it "orgy" buy...

JPB - good on ya man! Have to put exhaust on backburner though. For now, wanna keep to "plug n play" not "cut & paste" to keep car in stock condition given "purist" character flaw. And to minimize warranty void hassle. IF exhaust had Asian version mated with Asian air intake, would have fitted in a flash. Say, shouldn't you have fitted the US air intake in that context? Also very, very drawn to a quad exhaust system....4 pipes portruding from rear is a sight to behold for fast cars . Yes, have combed thru the star spangled e90 mods thread but exasperating to do search given patience sapping 200 plus pages even on 7.2 Mbps speed! So pretty much in the know on what's going on. This thread's not spawned from frustration with that thread but to focus on the Perf range...and also to discuss lifesytle issues related to our Bimmers. In as much a Bimmer's a bread and butter car for some/most of us, I see mine fitting into a desired lifestyle...

BMWs - I'm sure I can't provide a satisfying answer BUT I was looking over the shoulders of the foreman when he fitted the air intake....and taking Handycam shots....quality of any component is only as good as the workmanship in fitting them. What's different with the air intake is the about 35% larger air vent leading to the CF casing compared to stock. Additionally, your K&N is definitely not same as THAT K&N with supremely confident feel about it as confirmed by foreman. Haven't had chance to trial it on roads given tight business schedule but am sure I'll find MORE joy as I have with that initial glow in the CF cover. Even as I speak, I'm checking the CF strut brace with a couple of vendors - a Megan Fox perfect, sassy fit with the air intake CF cover... move over Megatron...

Now that I've kept temporary (yes, it will return to haunt me) peace with the exhaust system, the steering wheel replacement - bling bling Alcantara clad LED or Armani cool Nappa M3 DCT - is wreaking havoc on my sanity. Not helping as presently in deep mourning mode after gut wrenching decision to ditch Blackberry after 9 years for iiPhone 3Gs. C'mon Steve...bring on the 4G man...stop the tease with the "S". Say anyone collecting the first batch of 3Gs this Friday...am holding my breath.......woooooo.....

Cheers!

 

[E46Fanatic]

Bros',

Just to double check on the BMW performance air intake system Euro/Asian version. I've read, seen pictures and even felt the actual unit of it and still don't understand how can it increase in BHP apart from the K&N filter that comes with it.

The system is connected to the original intake at the kidney grill and the box is slightly more hexagon than the original. So the air flow is roughly still the same.

I have fitted mine with just K&N drop in (cone) and performance is of course better than stock and theres a slight increase in sound when touch 2.5k - 3k rpm.

Cheers

The performance intake pulls air from the front kidney grills as well as from the bottom of the front windscreen. Stock intake pulls air only form the kidney grills. Also the profile for airflow has changed. There is no longer the the flexi PVC piping connecting the kidney grill to the airbox. Its now through the CF intake. If you look properly as well, the profile of the CF intake enclosure differs for US vs. Euro BMW Performance intakes. The Euro one has a more flowing profile compared to the more symmetrical US version CF enclosure. I previously ran the K&N drop in intake. Powerwise, its either no difference or results in a decrease in performance. We've done extensive back to back real word tests among our E9x members. The BMW performance intake give very real gains

 

[meinauto]

Was caught in a dilemna for past few days over fitting Euro/Asian or US version of air intake system. Yup. Lost sleep! Combed Bimmer forums/websites extensively and concluded that EuroAsian version is the one to fit for our cars. No brainer I know but the US version was more appealing as it's more different than stock compared to Asian version. Even US Bimmer nut cases fit the Euro/Asian version. They consider the Euro/Asian cone shaped filter more superior than the flat US version as the former is less restrictive allowing more air in, and more robust with its steel mesh construction. Ahhhh...sweet relief! And cost was only 3.5k!

Will input my thoughts on fitting the BMW Perf exhaust, brake system, suspension and the works. In interim, any comments from those who have fitted either US or Euro air intake systems? Would be pleased to hear from you.


Cheers.

Just curious, why is the panel filter more restrictive than the cone? If the panel filter is indeed more restrictive, does BMW quote lower gains for the US version of the intake compared to the EU version (right now it claims upto 3hp for the US version)?

 

[E46Fanatic]

I have a feeling the reason US version uses the panel filter design instead of the cone is due to the additional carbon filter element which fits into the intake box. The carbon filter prevents oil fumes from leaking out to the environment when the engine is turned off. But yeah, based on this alone, Euro and US spec cars should theoretically have different power outputs.

 

[ryvinson]

Ahhh E46, I bow before the presence of your technical greatness.......the devil is indeed in the details....

At NO risk of revealing the imbecile that I'm, US 3 series run on 3.0 lit power plants but straightjacketed by tough emissions law. Hence car configurations and trivia like air filter designs are different from rest of world. Whether touted 3 hp gain is real....well, don't we assume some things in life like Gospel?

Could be better day in office. Gazing from my window at the traffic down below streaming home. Moody. Gonna grab an illy...no a Bud..or two... before heading home. Then bare thoughts on Alcantara/LED v M3 DCT steering wheel. Anyone out there wanna kick that off.....?

Cheers!

 

[Juan Powerblow]

Then bare thoughts on Alcantara/LED v M3 DCT steering wheel. Anyone out there wanna kick that off.....?

Cheers!

Hahahaha... I think you just gave E46F a sleepless night cos he's contemplating this option too. Now, how do we get you to share your "lubang" to us discreetly. Ummm... that didn't come out right...

 

[ryvinson]

Okeee....3 Buds down the hatch worked like a charm...moody blues lifted or is that brain fog? Duh....

So here's the low down on my steering wheel choice between the Alcantara and the Nappa skins.

Major drawback with the Alcantara is the faux suede that's entirely the kiss of death in our hot, humid climate. Sweaty palms don't help. Most user sources confirmed that Alcantara dematerializes with age in that it'll transform into a looser, more slippery, gooey like feel and eventually hardening like cholesterol choked arteries and eventual rigor mortis. The skin is perfect (BMW Perf dubs it a "second skin") for colder environments like Europe, North America. Bimmer geeks lusting after the bling LED display routinely re-wrap the steering with Nappa or other skins to have the best of both worlds. Another drawback is the Alcantara paddle shifts derived from the 335i that lacks the cock-sure feel of the M3 shifters. Final nail in coffin...steering with the intricate electronics appears to be (pardon the French) a bitch to fix. BUT the LED is indeed awe inspiring, a guaranteed conversation piece providing bragging rights ad infinitum. Fans tout it as the Holy Grail of steering wheels....and does look the part. I mean I hardly blinked when I was driving a client's car as I was so taken by the the dancing lights and flashing numbers. To me the steering, as much as it does the job on the tracks and the undeniably bling factor, is first and foremost a novelty that I know will wear off faster for me than the skin's forewarned premature decomposing. Additionally, as much a geek as I'd consider myself to be, the car's already fully laden with electronic gizmos without more from the LED. It's a sad decision. I do love the wheel but my good senses albeit impaired by lust for fast cars can't ignore the so obvious downsides. So perhaps before I draw the curtains on the Alcantara LED, could someone out there provide another viewpoint on the upsides or even challenge my findings and conclusions?

That leaves the M3 DCT as a default option. Never like defaults, always prefer options by design. But life is such. The M3 is the antithesis of the Alcantara LED. Not as contoured or as sexy for sure BUT provides a very, very confident, authoritative CEO like feel that screams DFWM (Don't F... With Me...in French). But deceptively cozy with the smooth Nappa skin with the mandatory tri colour stitches. But I like the shifters best - sure, firm and uncompromizing. No vagueness about them. The shifters' are infact so good Bimmer nut cases swap the Alcantara LED shifters for the M3's. Some users do complain about the thickness or fatness of the rims that interferes with hard, quick turns when cornering or avoiding collissions etc.

Well, looks like there's an Utopian ideal option.... rewrap the Alcantara with Nappa and use the M3 shifters...and indeed that's the solution for some diehards. But for me, I can relate far better to the M3 DCT as it is, and that's my definitive choice. Price for both steering varies considerably at this juncture, and I'm still pursuing the best prices and delivery dates. Both can reuse existing airbags and multi function controls save for 320s. Prices of the Alcantara with shifters have dropped almost to the level of the M3 DCT depending on resellers. That probably confirms that demand for the Alcantara have largely petered out as the LED novelty wears out thin and fast in all likelihood.

Over now to the rest of the world to take the floor.....your comments please. I'm heading home. Wrote this in between mouthfuls of a rare, thick, juicy New York cut washed down with Shiraz....a happy soul again I am. Can't wait for tomorrow!

Cheers!

 

[3er]

E46F,
I'm surprised you are modding your E90 when your previous E46 was left stock. What? The 325i now isnt enough? )

I'm lurking with great interest here too cos i'm still procrastinating on my next change. Ok, maybe cos i still love my ACS exhaust on my E46.... (is that more fuel for the exhaust fire? )

JPB,
C'mon! Lets hear it around the neighbourhood, bro!

 

[Schwepps]

BTW, which model of the E90 do you drive ryvinson? Can't seem to find you in the registry.

 

[E46Fanatic]

E46F,
I'm surprised you are modding your E90 when your previous E46 was left stock. What? The 325i now isnt enough? )

I'm lurking with great interest here too cos i'm still procrastinating on my next change. Ok, maybe cos i still love my ACS exhaust on my E46.... (is that more fuel for the exhaust fire? )

JPB,
C'mon! Lets hear it around the neighbourhood, bro!

Hey man we should catchup sometime. My E46 had mild mods ma.. M tech sports susp, 18' BMW wheels and interior trims haha. But the E90 is much more of a drivers car. Makes you wanna unleash the beast more, where the E46 was more of a comfy sporty cruiser. Since you are shopping, go straight to a 330i or 335i. Nowadays used E92 335i can be had for below Rm350k. Then you'll keep the car longer and enjoy, plus its a coupe and a chick magnet (ask JPB bout that). Else you'll be looking around again heh. So when are we going car shopping??

 

[ryvinson]

Schwepps - Hi and how's the fizz man? Throught you're a Nazi on the prowl in this forum asking the questions you asked. Just think of yours truly as the Turin Shroud clothed in mystery (okay not as divine) or The Stig post Schuey....

E46 - yup, two doors of anything like a coupe is definitively more sexy. Personally would go for a e92 320i over e90 325i as prices about same (280k?) pre-registered even though former runs short of serious horses. But one doesn't opt for a coupe for heart stomping performance. More for the design, sophistication, asthetics and the differentiation (the lifestyle works) from plebeian saloons. Well look no further at the debacle that is the M3 saloon...a sacrilegeous travesty of justice to the iconic coupe. Wouldn't be caught dead in the former. And if one is so inclined to paint town red with a Megan Fox (drool) wannabe, a Jessica Alba (drool, drool) lookie-like or a Gossip Girl snobby type, only the e92 does the job. Keep the M5 for dad...

Cheers!

 

[ryvinson]

and the Merc for uncle...........