35i - power/torque upgrade to iS level

eng622

Member
Only had the Zed a few weeks but won't be long before I feel the need for more grunt. Done some research on this and other forums. Read that the twin turbos are a bit weak regard to safe power at the upper rev limits but that does not bother me as I'm more concerned about getting a low/mid range torque boost to around 380 ftlbs as in the iS.
Also read there are two ways to go, piggyback device or ECU remap. I note there are advantages/disadvantages to both approaches. One thing for me is I'm no good with computers so downloading/loading new files etc is out. Also I'm not keen on the piggyback approach as I've read there can be quite a lot to dismantle before the device can be connected. There are many tuning companies that do ECU remaps but how do you know if they are any good and they don't disarm any important safeguards, same goes for the piggyback.
Anyone have experience of Angel tuning from Banbury for example.
 
The turbos on the N54 platform in reality are no worse performing at high RPM than any other turbos on comparable motors. Yes there are some reports of wastegate rattle from the wastegate rod but these are the sorts of things that crop up with turbos.

If piggybacks are out and you dont want to flash then i'd approach a reputable BMW tuning company like evolve automotive. Just my opinion but if I were having my car tuned I'd want to take it to guys that have specific experience in BMW tuning and ECU configuration. I havnt heard of Angel Tuning sorry.

On the plus side even with a moderate tune you should find the 35i will surpass the IS levels of torque. The N54 has alot to give 'safely' and if tuned right can even nuke the likes of a C63 AMG.

Best of luck.
 
I think this is crazy, anyone who doesn't think the power is enough on a 35i, well....everyone to their own. But for what use and where?
 
Since you only live in Banbury, i would take you z to p-torque which is based in Wombourne South Staffordshire. They rolling road you car before hand tell you your results have a look if the car is performing as it should. Tune it. Rolling road it again, let you test drive it to see if your happy. The bloke owns Z4M himself, i had my 118d mapped there, no problems what so ever. Heard nothing but great things. Top bloke
 
I can understand both sides of the argument regarding ecu upgrade.
Personally, unless you take your car to track days it's not really worth it.
I have a hard time using half the power of my 35i during normal day to day driving! Aberdeen traffic and roads are just too crap for that much power unfortunately....
 
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