If I really have to choose, Dinan has my vote.
But that being said, I would keep the 335i as stock. This is coming from someone who has modified and still racing BMWs (legally sanctioned). I am not entirely keen on modifying the new BMWs. Reason is they aren’t built like they used to. I bet you already knew that the N54 uses a block from the M54 (2001 through 2005 E46). The BMW engineers have optimized the parameters for 335i to drive on the streets/highway for an optimal reliability time frame. Anytime you modify the ECU, you are reducing the reliability time frame. And no, BMW NA does not even warrant Dinan’s work. The only "tuner" or re-manufacturer as they would like to be addressed that BMW recognized is Alpina.
I can see the joy and the rush of modifying the ECU and getting that extra something instant. I have been there and I have learned a few things. Now, do keep in mind, you’re running not one but two turbochargers. The turbochargers work in sync with the engine. If they are overstressed (running on modified boost), something else is going to give up somewhere. If that something doesn’t give up during your ownership, well consider yourself lucky. If it does, then it’s an expensive lesson learned.
I have driven/tracked the 335i. IMO, it runs on plenty of hp/torque for the car. If you find the car still rather lacking, sign up with your local BMW chapter and enroll in an auto cross or high performance driving event. Trust me, you will never see the car the same way again.
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If I really have to choose, Dinan has my vote.
But that being said, I would keep the 335i as stock. This is coming from someone who has modified and still racing BMWs (legally sanctioned). I am not entirely keen on modifying the new BMWs. Reason is they aren’t built like they used to. I bet you already knew that the N54 uses a block from the M54 (2001 through 2005 E46). The BMW engineers have optimized the parameters for 335i to drive on the streets/highway for an optimal reliability time frame. Anytime you modify the ECU, you are reducing the reliability time frame. And no, BMW NA does not even warrant Dinan’s work. The only "tuner" or re-manufacturer as they would like to be addressed that BMW recognized is Alpina.
I can see the joy and the rush of modifying the ECU and getting that extra something instant. I have been there and I have learned a few things. Now, do keep in mind, you’re running not one but two turbochargers. The turbochargers work in sync with the engine. If they are overstressed (running on modified boost), something else is going to give up somewhere. If that something doesn’t give up during your ownership, well consider yourself lucky. If it does, then it’s an expensive lesson learned.
I have driven/tracked the 335i. IMO, it runs on plenty of hp/torque for the car. If you find the car still rather lacking, sign up with your local BMW chapter and enroll in an auto cross or high performance driving event. Trust me, you will never see the car the same way again.
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Owns, maintains 3 BMWs. Races one of them (legally sanctioned).
Out of those I would say Dinan. Neither is cheap and I don’t know if it is worth the price. But if it was money I would get something else. I like E.A.T. chips this is their site http://www.dsylva-tech.ca/ I am not sure if Mark has a chip for the new turbo yet. But you can call and ask, he is really supportive of the enthusists and is always looking for feedback.
Otherwise I would check with the guys at Active Autowerkes. They are big on forced induction BMWs. http://www.activeautowerke.com
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Based on what I read combined with reputation and history, I’d have to vote for Dinan here.
Vishnu posts some great numbers, but for as new as the 335 model is coupled with historical data and experience I feel one has to consider all the parameters involved.
ANYONE can be an "early adopter" of any technology. It very well can turn out to be the ultimate choice, but often it is not.
As the saying goes… "When in doubt, error on the side of conservitism".
So IMO even if Dinan has screwed up on anything… their history and dedication to "making things right" has TONS of mileage to me as a consumer trying to decide between one platform and the other.
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