Need help upgrading E46 xi

[RaviPras]

A few months back I was able to get my hands on a black/black 2001 330xi for a bargin price, so I jumped on the deal. The car is handles and perfoms much better than I thought it would have, and now I think I can say I'm hooked on BMW for the rest of my life. I want to do some perfomance upgrades (Big brake system, dual exhaust like M3, intake, chip, etc.). Needless to say I have been browsing the internet for info and came accross the big names like Dinan, Racing Dynamic, AC Schintzer. What is the best way to go? Does any of these companies have better products? Have any of them been known to out perform the others, or have any major issues?

As far as body mods go, I have decided on the Tornado kit by RD Sport (Racing Dynamics) with the fenders, and more than likely a 3piece M3 rear wing. I also want to up the 17'' stock rims to 18"s. Probally 8.5 wide in the front and 9.5 wide in the back, and suggestions?

The stock HK audio system is good, but needs some bass. Any suggestions. It is a possiblity later on to two-tone the interior.

I'm located in NYC, if anyone knows of someone located in NYC that can do good work, please advise. Thanks in advance.

[E46Performance]

Hi there,

There are lot's of things you can do for sure! Lot's companies to choose from too! AC Shintzer, DINAN, Hamann; these are the main bimmer companies. DINAN you are going to find as being quite expensive, but VERY high quality. Hamann makes some really awesome wheels and bodies, as does Schintzer. You're going to find you will have a hard time getting the dual/quad exhaust look of the M3 because the rear bumper is different, actually it's quite a bit wider and flows into the rear quarter panels. You would have to do significant custom body work to have that molded to fit.

For things like a chip, you would HAVE to go DINAN otherwise you will void your warranty! Exhaust you can look at Remus, Hamann, Schintzer, Supersprint....a bunch. Intake the same, you actually don't have to get too crazy with that; most are not better than the other. You want to diffinetly do your suspension.......springs/coilovers....front and rear strut bars. Especially with your model; it sits much higher that the regular E46, makes a huge difference in handling.

Anyhow, I won't run on anymore.....if you need any help with any of this don't hesitate to shoot me a call. I happen to own a performance parts company called ZS Performance; 860 342-0000. I do mostly BMW, Audi, Porsche, and VW.

Talk to you later, good luck.

Tom