E92 M3 Project Part 4, Engine Tuning
Advances in electrical engineering have allowed the venerable internal combustion engine to stay relevant in an increasingly hostile environment. A myriad of computer controls actuate precision crafted mechanical components in order to increase the efficiency and cleanliness of modern engines and the S65 is no exception. Since we’ve replaced some major engine components on our customer's E92 M3 in search of power, we needed to let the brain that controls it all "in" on our secret...
As described in Part 1 of this series, the engine is basically a large air pump. We've increased the flow of the air through the engine by swapping out the intake and exhaust. To best utilize these mechanical changes we need to update the "computer program" that runs the engine.
There are many companies out there that promise large increases in power from their programs, but few have the broad experience and engineering prowess of Powerchip. We've found their claims to be more conservative but more accurate. Also, peak power is one thing; a strong power curve that is useful everyday is another. And that's where expertise through years of experience plays a major roll.
According to Powerchip:
"In standard form, the BMW M3 4.0 V8 E92 produces 414 hp, however the addition of a PowerchipGold 93 will increase the power to 442 hp. In addition to the extra power, the torque is also increased. The M3 4.0 V8 E92 produces 295 lb.-ft standard, and this is increased to 315 lb.-ft. This means more pulling power especially up hills."
We worked with Powerchip's technicians to create a performance program specifically for this project vehicle, taking into account the modifications we made.
Next up, the suspension…