E89 pop-up screen

[Msport]

The pistons are exactly the same on all UK models (18i, 20i, 28i), even BMW themselves confirm identical compression ratios in their literature for the UK models; only difference is the brakes and remapped ECU. The brakes on the 20i are already more than adequate though for additional power. The pistons are different in some US models I believe, such as the 5 series (and thus different compression ratios). Mine hasn't been remapped yet, but its getting done next week by celtic tuning, goes up to 280bhp for £295.

For me 20i was £3-4k cheaper. Picked up an absolutely mint condition 62 plate 20i M sport for £9250 with 65k miles. Not sure what the difference is if you are looking at newer models than me, especially from dealers (I always buy private). My insurance will go up by £50 when remapped.

I wanted a 28i, but like you I found not many examples on the market had the spec/colour/combo I wanted- there are literally ten times as many 20i's on the market. After some research I discovered the 18i and 20i both have identical engines to the 28i (28i just has an expensive BMW remap and larger front brakes) and like many on here I decided to get a 20i and simply remap to 28i power or more. Far better value and gives you a wider choice of cars. 28i not worth the £3-4k more than an equivalently specced 20i/18i when you can get a remap for £295 from celtic tuning.

Yes, some have said this, but also others have said that in addition to larger brakes, the 28i has different pistons and a different ECU, I'm not totally convinced. Also I did take a look at 20is for sale, and whilst they are cheaper, didn't find them 3-4k cheaper.

Did you bother to tell your insurance company about the remap, and if so what was their reaction?

 

[DR-Z]

Mine hasn't been remapped yet, but its getting done next week by celtic tuning, goes up to 280bhp for £295.

I'm warming to the idea. Do Celtic tuning offer a range of remaps, or is it 280bhp as 'standard', which seems a massive increase? I'd be interested to hear how you get on.

 

[Msport]

Yes they do three tunes, one takes it to 245bhp the same as the 28i. I was going to get that but some on here made the point that I might as well go for the 280bhp as it's not like you are going to be using it constantly. Plus Celtic offer a one year warranty on any engine failure from their tune if your car is of a certain age/milage. The 28i has the exact same engine and runs 245bhp and 280bhp is only 35bhp more, which is within tolerances. Mine is being done on 8th may, plenty on here have had theirs done for ages though.. I think smart bear has been running 280bho for years on his 20i..

Mine hasn't been remapped yet, but its getting done next week by celtic tuning, goes up to 280bhp for £295.

I'm warming to the idea. Do Celtic tuning offer a range of remaps, or is it 280bhp as 'standard', which seems a massive increase? I'd be interested to hear how you get on.