BMW z3 2.8i turbo conversion.....?

[Corsair7]

Anyone ever seen or heard of one being done?

[Corsair7]

TEKNOPUG said:

I'm not rooted in the NA camp, I just can't see how it can be cost effective to convert to turbo, when you include all the other mods (drivetrain, suspension, brakes etc) that will be required, compared to just buying a Z3M in the first place.

I already own a very nice 2.8i Z3. It has the M3 brake system, and modified suspension. (previous own fitted these)

Its not as 'revvy' as I'd like, and has about 210bhp.

A Z3M would be nice, but would cost me probably £6000/£8000 more. I also understand the engine on the Z3M is less than reliable....

[Corsair7]

TEKNOPUG said:

Less reliable than what - a 2.8 engine with an aftermarket turbo conversion? How much are decent Z3Ms - £7-8k? Less the £3k+ of a turbo conversion, means you need to find £4-5k. How much do you think your 2.8 is worth?

I doubt I could get more than the £2800 I paid for my car, probably less. As I said, its a nice motor, and I dont want to spend £6000 replacing it. Seems like the turbo conversion would cost me more than I had anticipated so probably a non starter.

Maybe Pistonheads is the wrong place to ask about car tuning and upgrades.....

[Corsair7]

TEKNOPUG said:

For a far, far cheaper upgrade, swap the intake manifold for one from a 325 engine, get a remap and you'll have an extra 30bhp.

Thanks, good option. Maybe suit my budget better>?

[Corsair7]

TEKNOPUG said:

I wouldn’t bother spending any more than that. There is more power to be had from the 2.8 – change the cams, exhaust etc. But ultimately just diminishing returns as you spend more to get less.

The 2.8s were detuned from the factory to comply with some German emission laws at the time. They fitted a constrictive inlet manifold and a few other bits to the intake system. The intake from the 2.5 is far less restrictive and will gain about 15% power on the 2.8 and allow it to run as it was designed. It’s pretty much plug and play.

If you look on the E36 websites there is LOADS on tuning the 2.8 engine, although I wouldn’t suggest spending money on anything other than breathing mods. Better to spend the cash on making sure all the stock components are tip-top. If you still want more power after that, look for a different car.

Well here's the good news....
Its already fitted with the manifold from the 2.5, it just hasn't had a remap as yet....

So it running a bit lumpy, with some flatspots. I've spoken to DMS and they rekon £495 +vat and it should be much nicer...