I want my 2006 325XI to go faster! Any idea's?

JoeNathan · 11-12-2010, 12:42 PM

Hi, I am looking to add some performance modifications to my 2006 325XI. I was looking for some advice towards what the best mods would be to start off with on a stock 325XI? I do not have a bottomless budget, so I would be looking to spend about $1000-$1500. Any recommendations? A guy at a local BMW shop recommended the Power Box.
http://burgertuning.com/BMS_Power_Box.html

It seems easy to install, and is pretty low in cost, but only adds 10hp? I want the real power!
What would you install?
Thanks for your recommendations!!

timmahh · 11-12-2010, 01:12 PM

The only way you're going to see huge power increases is an engine swap or going a forced induction route.

You can add exhaust, intake, change a few things, ECU tinkering, and grab some increased performance from those mods, but the problem is you're working with an engine that isn't meant for forced induction nor is it a really high output engine that's just been detuned. There's nothing to "unlock" in the engine that's going to free up 100 hp that have been programmed or modified out of it.

Have you checked out the NA engine forum?
http://www.e90post.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=35

booth · 11-12-2010, 01:12 PM

Hey, I'm not sure what is available for 325. I know that 335 has quite a few options. Have looked into it and found chips for well under your budget, just a few hundred dollars. There isn't much to modify software wise on the 325. The 335 has the twin turbo, with limited psi, the software basically allows you to pick a program that you want to run, which will use max psi, and other variables as well. I don't know a whole lot about it. But do believe the 335 chip can add quite a bit of HP.

Delta0311 · 11-12-2010, 01:23 PM

325i hmm what can you do

Exhaust: Performance Exhaust

Intake: AFE and Injen are not true CAIs, you'll gain at high speeds but your 0-60 pefromance will drop. Stick with your regular intake, which is actually a cold air inake. Just do the carbon filter delete, and put in a K&N drop in filter
Chip: PBX map 3

Wheels: GET RID OF THE 16in RUN FLATS ASAP. Get a nice set of light staggered 18s

There is also weight reduction (that is if you don't mind driving around without a backseat and other components.

I think there is a guy here that did a 325 to 330 conversion by replacing the intake manifold and doing a software tune but that will probably be pricey.

JayKay335i · 11-12-2010, 01:45 PM

Sell it.

Delta0311 · 11-12-2010, 01:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayKay335i

Sell it.

Agreed.. lol

Get yourself a 335is and don't worry about modding.

booth · 11-12-2010, 01:50 PM

i owned both 325 and 335. 335 is worth the extra 10k, trust me.

fdriller9 · 11-12-2010, 01:53 PM

Weight reduction. You're not going to get any solid gains on a NA engine.

CF panels.
Race seats.
Lighter wheels.

More extreme:
Take out AC.
Plexi-glass all around. lol
Gut interior.

fdriller9 · 11-12-2010, 01:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Delta0311

325i hmm what can you do

Exhaust: Performance Exhaust

Intake: AFE and Injen are not true CAIs, you'll gain at high speeds but your 0-60 pefromance will drop. Stick with your regular intake, which is actually a cold air inake. Just do the carbon filter delete, and put in a K&N drop in filter
Chip: PBX map 3

Wheels: GET RID OF THE 16in RUN FLATS ASAP. Get a nice set of light staggered 18s

There is also weight reduction (that is if you don't mind driving around without a backseat and other components.

I think there is a guy here that did a 325 to 330 conversion by replacing the intake manifold and doing a software tune but that will probably be pricey.

Yea but I think it's in the OPs price range...IIRC it was around $1200 to get parts. But then you have to code the car.

carve · 11-12-2010, 02:11 PM

I'd recommend a large spoiler, yellow wiper blades and door handles, and a "Type-R VTEC" sticker.

Just kidding...I agree- try turning it into a 330i. What are the differences, anyway? I think it's the same block and head with just some tuning differences. That'd be your best bet.

I don't think aftermarket mods will be a very good value in this car. Don't bother with an intake- the stock one is very good, and cleans the air MUCH better than a K&N or similar filter does, with about the same performance. You could open the exhaust up a bit, but again, that will be a lot of money for what you get, and it'll be much noisier, too.

So, if you don't want to make it into a 330i or 328i, I think your best bet to improve performance would be to blow the entire wad on the lightest 16 or 17" wheels you can find. Don't go more than one size bigger than whatever is required to clear your brakes. Bigger wheels only performance benefits are in increased steering feel (due to lower profile tires) and the abilitiy to clear a bigger brake. Other than that, and looks, they hinder performance as well as ride.

username604 · 11-12-2010, 02:18 PM

go test drive a civic or better yet a hybrid
instant upgrade when you get back into your car

bob.g · 11-12-2010, 11:23 PM

the power box is the bang for buck, since it will get rid of that sluggish feel when you accelerate. I wouldnt bother with the rest..you will pay thousands for an extra 10hp. Theres some other tune, i forget the name, gintani or something, where you gotta ship then your ecu and they flash it, looked pretty good and not too $

cotmfk · 11-13-2010, 02:17 PM

Best bet would be to trade for a 335. Instant power upgrade... then when you need another power upgrade, it will be much cheaper!

jfisher160 · 11-14-2010, 12:28 PM

If you want to mod the car go with the following and that is about all. Unless you have some big money to put a supercharger. But you can do the following and you will see performance increase.

Basic mods:
PBX Powerbox / Gintani Tune
MMW Exhaust
AFE Intake or BMW Performance

More Expensive mods:
330i manifold swap w/Gintani Tune for it (around $1500)
New Wheels and Tires
Headers

That is about all you can do with the car.

335imax · 11-15-2010, 09:17 AM

Really lets be reasonable. I hate it when people are like, "sell your car" He just wants some performance upgrades on a budget, and the ones that work best are.

1. Skip the intake, waste of time. Just makes noise.
2. Remove that resonator. Wow, that was a cheap upgrade for me.
3. By a performance exhaust
4. Tune the ECU, or get the Powerbox.

All this will cost you $1000 and I can confirm it will feel like you bought a new car.

These will improve the ride considerably...
5. Buy a stiff suspension. It will feel like the car is faster (Koni was my choice)
6. Get bigger tires and rims. Lots of OEM options on Ebay

brocklanders · 11-15-2010, 10:00 AM

nitrous, why spend thousands on mufflers and such when you can get real hp out of a safe 75 shot.

Greenkirby21 · 11-15-2010, 10:19 AM

it could be possible but costly

lightweight rims(OZ 17 inch?)
330i conversion(manifold swap) + tune
cold air intake
lightweight full catback or res delete exhaust

kamek · 11-15-2010, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 325imax

Really lets be reasonable. I hate it when people are like, "sell your car" He just wants some performance upgrades on a budget, and the ones that work best are.

1. Skip the intake, waste of time. Just makes noise.
2. Remove that resonator. Wow, that was a cheap upgrade for me.
3. By a performance exhaust
4. Tune the ECU, or get the Powerbox.

All this will cost you $1000 and I can confirm it will feel like you bought a new car.

These will improve the ride considerably...
5. Buy a stiff suspension. It will feel like the car is faster (Koni was my choice)
6. Get bigger tires and rims. Lots of OEM options on Ebay

A resonator delete and muffler box will NOT make your car any faster. A PBX will only make your car FEEL faster.

BIGGER WHEELS WILL NOT MAKE YOUR CAR FASTER

and neither will suspension...

The most effective way for a 325 to gain REAL power, as proven on these forums, is to do a 330 intake manifold swap and pair it up with a proper tune. Search a little for some info in the N/A section.

335imax · 11-15-2010, 01:32 PM

[QUOTE=kamek;8336877]

BIGGER WHEELS WILL NOT MAKE YOUR CAR FASTER

and neither will suspension...

These will improve the ride considerably...
5. Buy a stiff suspension. It will feel like the car is faster (Koni was my choice)
6. Get bigger tires and rims. Lots of OEM options on Ebay

benzo23 · 11-15-2010, 01:35 PM

Keep is a a daily driver and get an M or a Z06 or some shit...lol

11-12-2010, 12:42 PM	#1
JoeNathan New Member 4 Rep 11 Posts Drives: 06 325XI Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Montreal iTrader: (0)	I want my 2006 325XI to go faster! Any idea's? Hi, I am looking to add some performance modifications to my 2006 325XI. I was looking for some advice towards what the best mods would be to start off with on a stock 325XI? I do not have a bottomless budget, so I would be looking to spend about $1000-$1500. Any recommendations? A guy at a local BMW shop recommended the Power Box. http://burgertuning.com/BMS_Power_Box.html It seems easy to install, and is pretty low in cost, but only adds 10hp? I want the real power! What would you install? Thanks for your recommendations!!
	Appreciate 0 Tweet Quote

11-12-2010, 01:12 PM	#2
timmahh ghey 483 Rep 2,041 Posts Drives: Viertürigen Fahrzeugs Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Southern California iTrader: (1)	The only way you're going to see huge power increases is an engine swap or going a forced induction route. You can add exhaust, intake, change a few things, ECU tinkering, and grab some increased performance from those mods, but the problem is you're working with an engine that isn't meant for forced induction nor is it a really high output engine that's just been detuned. There's nothing to "unlock" in the engine that's going to free up 100 hp that have been programmed or modified out of it. Have you checked out the NA engine forum? http://www.e90post.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=35 __________________ 21 G05 > 20 G05 > 17 G30 > 14 F30 > 08 E90
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 01:12 PM	#3
booth New Member 1 Rep 12 Posts Drives: 2009 e90 black 335i 0-60 4.9s Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Washington DC iTrader: (0)	Hey, I'm not sure what is available for 325. I know that 335 has quite a few options. Have looked into it and found chips for well under your budget, just a few hundred dollars. There isn't much to modify software wise on the 325. The 335 has the twin turbo, with limited psi, the software basically allows you to pick a program that you want to run, which will use max psi, and other variables as well. I don't know a whole lot about it. But do believe the 335 chip can add quite a bit of HP.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 01:23 PM	#4
Delta0311 Banned 7478 Rep 10,120 Posts Drives: 2011 BMW 335xi E92 2016 228xi Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: NJ iTrader: (1)	325i hmm what can you do Exhaust: Performance Exhaust Intake: AFE and Injen are not true CAIs, you'll gain at high speeds but your 0-60 pefromance will drop. Stick with your regular intake, which is actually a cold air inake. Just do the carbon filter delete, and put in a K&N drop in filter Chip: PBX map 3 Wheels: GET RID OF THE 16in RUN FLATS ASAP. Get a nice set of light staggered 18s There is also weight reduction (that is if you don't mind driving around without a backseat and other components. I think there is a guy here that did a 325 to 330 conversion by replacing the intake manifold and doing a software tune but that will probably be pricey.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 01:45 PM	#5
JayKay335i Banned 189 Rep 5,046 Posts Drives: ///M323 DCT Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: North Dakota; its best DUHHHHHH iTrader: (1)	Sell it.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 01:50 PM	#7
booth New Member 1 Rep 12 Posts Drives: 2009 e90 black 335i 0-60 4.9s Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Washington DC iTrader: (0)	i owned both 325 and 335. 335 is worth the extra 10k, trust me.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 01:53 PM	#8
fdriller9 Banned 253 Rep 7,089 Posts Drives: '06 AW 330xi Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: North Jersey/Philly/NYC iTrader: (4) Garage List 2006 330xi [6.44]	Weight reduction. You're not going to get any solid gains on a NA engine. CF panels. Race seats. Lighter wheels. More extreme: Take out AC. Plexi-glass all around. lol Gut interior.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 02:11 PM	#10
carve Major 177 Rep 1,105 Posts Drives: 335i Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: usa iTrader: (0)	I'd recommend a large spoiler, yellow wiper blades and door handles, and a "Type-R VTEC" sticker. Just kidding...I agree- try turning it into a 330i. What are the differences, anyway? I think it's the same block and head with just some tuning differences. That'd be your best bet. I don't think aftermarket mods will be a very good value in this car. Don't bother with an intake- the stock one is very good, and cleans the air MUCH better than a K&N or similar filter does, with about the same performance. You could open the exhaust up a bit, but again, that will be a lot of money for what you get, and it'll be much noisier, too. So, if you don't want to make it into a 330i or 328i, I think your best bet to improve performance would be to blow the entire wad on the lightest 16 or 17" wheels you can find. Don't go more than one size bigger than whatever is required to clear your brakes. Bigger wheels only performance benefits are in increased steering feel (due to lower profile tires) and the abilitiy to clear a bigger brake. Other than that, and looks, they hinder performance as well as ride. Last edited by carve; 11-12-2010 at 02:23 PM..
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 02:18 PM	#11
username604 Colonel 124 Rep 2,554 Posts Drives: bmw Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: repair shop iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 BMW 335i [10.00]	go test drive a civic or better yet a hybrid instant upgrade when you get back into your car
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-12-2010, 11:23 PM	#12
bob.g Captain 21 Rep 677 Posts Drives: 2006 325xi Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: montreal iTrader: (1)	the power box is the bang for buck, since it will get rid of that sluggish feel when you accelerate. I wouldnt bother with the rest..you will pay thousands for an extra 10hp. Theres some other tune, i forget the name, gintani or something, where you gotta ship then your ecu and they flash it, looked pretty good and not too $
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-13-2010, 02:17 PM	#13
cotmfk Major General 2050 Rep 6,110 Posts Drives: M3 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Somewhere between DC and FL iTrader: (12)	Best bet would be to trade for a 335. Instant power upgrade... then when you need another power upgrade, it will be much cheaper! __________________ When you say impact instead of affect/effect, you are communicating that you don't understand the difference between the two words, and are too lazy to learn.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-14-2010, 12:28 PM	#14
jfisher160 First Lieutenant 19 Rep 331 Posts Drives: 2012 335is Coupe Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Thousand Oaks, CA iTrader: (3)	If you want to mod the car go with the following and that is about all. Unless you have some big money to put a supercharger. But you can do the following and you will see performance increase. Basic mods: PBX Powerbox / Gintani Tune MMW Exhaust AFE Intake or BMW Performance More Expensive mods: 330i manifold swap w/Gintani Tune for it (around $1500) New Wheels and Tires Headers That is about all you can do with the car. __________________ New - 2013 - 320i - 15% Tint - Future Mods ( BMS Tune, Suspension, Wheels, Exhaust) Sold - 2007 328i (3-Stage Manifold - BMW Perf Intake w/Scoops - Powerbox - Magnaflow Exhaust - MMW Headers - KW Street Comfort - VMR 701s 19' w/M3 offset - BMW Strut Brace - 330I Brake Conversation - 5% Tint All Around - 8K HID Fog Lights -Angel Eyes)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-15-2010, 09:17 AM	#15
335imax Second Lieutenant 44 Rep 210 Posts Drives: 2012 335i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Virginia iTrader: (1)	Guys, he can't upgrade the car for $1500 Really lets be reasonable. I hate it when people are like, "sell your car" He just wants some performance upgrades on a budget, and the ones that work best are. 1. Skip the intake, waste of time. Just makes noise. 2. Remove that resonator. Wow, that was a cheap upgrade for me. 3. By a performance exhaust 4. Tune the ECU, or get the Powerbox. All this will cost you $1000 and I can confirm it will feel like you bought a new car. These will improve the ride considerably... 5. Buy a stiff suspension. It will feel like the car is faster (Koni was my choice) 6. Get bigger tires and rims. Lots of OEM options on Ebay __________________ M Performance Suspension
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-15-2010, 10:00 AM	#16
brocklanders Major 106 Rep 1,428 Posts Drives: the uno, mineral white Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: houston iTrader: (3) Garage List 06 325 [0.00]	nitrous, why spend thousands on mufflers and such when you can get real hp out of a safe 75 shot.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-15-2010, 10:19 AM	#17
Greenkirby21 Vrooom :) 314 Rep 2,602 Posts Drives: C7 Stringray Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Dream Land iTrader: (1)	it could be possible but costly lightweight rims(OZ 17 inch?) 330i conversion(manifold swap) + tune cold air intake lightweight full catback or res delete exhaust __________________ 2014 C7 Corvette Stringray - Laguna Blue - NPP Exhaust - Competition Seats
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-15-2010, 01:32 PM	#19
335imax Second Lieutenant 44 Rep 210 Posts Drives: 2012 335i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Virginia iTrader: (1)	Learn to read [QUOTE=kamek;8336877] BIGGER WHEELS WILL NOT MAKE YOUR CAR FASTER and neither will suspension... These will improve the ride considerably... 5. Buy a stiff suspension. It will feel like the car is faster (Koni was my choice) 6. Get bigger tires and rims. Lots of OEM options on Ebay __________________ M Performance Suspension
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-15-2010, 01:35 PM	#20
benzo23 Colonel 74 Rep 2,848 Posts Drives: 14 F30 AW MSport Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: FL iTrader: (1)	Keep is a a daily driver and get an M or a Z06 or some shit...lol
	Appreciate 0 Quote