{"id":18745,"date":"2022-03-29T14:59:24","date_gmt":"2022-03-29T18:59:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/autosector.com\/?p=18745"},"modified":"2022-03-29T14:59:24","modified_gmt":"2022-03-29T18:59:24","slug":"bmw-325i-e46-turbocharged-350-horsepower","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/autosector.com\/?p=18745","title":{"rendered":"BMW 325i E46 Turbocharged To CSL Levels Of Power"},"content":{"rendered":"

Slapping a turbocharger on a naturally aspirated engine is the fastest way to unlock considerably more power. Just ask Viktor, a Bulgarian fellow who bought a BMW E46 that had been modified by its previous owner. The 3 Series Coupe started out in life as a 325i<\/a>, but the days when it made around 180 horsepower are long gone.<\/p>\n

Instead, the M54 now packs nearly twice more punch than the standard inline-six. Indeed, it\u2019s been taken to approximately 350 hp to surpass the M3 and almost match the mythical CSL<\/a>. The torque figure is shrouded in mystery, but you can rest assured it has seen a healthy bump over the series 245 Nm (181 lb-ft).<\/p>\n

Although nothing beats the soundtrack of a naturally aspirated mill, the turbocharger whistle is not half bad either. According to the owner, forced induction turned out to be a win-win situation as fuel economy also improved after adding the turbo. There\u2019s obviously more low-end torque now, making the 325i feel peppier without having to rev the 2.5-liter engine too hard.<\/p>\n

The E46 Turbo Serves As Daily Driver<\/h3>\n

Aside from embracing turbocharging, the E46 adopts a coilover suspension, EBC brakes, and a remapped ECU. It retains the stock five-speed manual gearbox and remains comfortable despite the massive power gains. The owner uses it as a daily driver, complete with a child seat in the back. It might not be the most sophisticated build you\u2019ve ever seen, but it\u2019s cheap power without ruining the driving experience.<\/p>\n

Save for the lowered ride height and the aftermarket wheels, the E46 is a bit of a sleeper. These cars remain affordable and adding a turbo won\u2019t break the bank, making them ideal for a budget-conscious enthusiast. Getting one with a stick shift just adds to the whole experience, enhanced by the fact cars were much lighter back then.<\/p>\n

Source: LivingLifeFast \/ YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n