In 2005 BMW introduced a new engine designed for the latest generation of the BMW 3 series. This was the new N54 I6 engine. This engine for the last 5 years has shared a spot in the 3 series along side the N53 and N52. Two things differentiate this power plant from others though. The first you may have already noticed; as BMW has changed the nomenclature used to name their engines from using the letter “M” to using the letter “N”. This seems odd and out of tradition, until you find out the second difference in this engine from its mainstream cousins. Not only did BMW introduce turbocharging technology for the first time in almost three decades, but the N54 sports two turbochargers! This is old news though, so why blog about it? Sure, it is old news. So are the cars the engine debuted in, the M3 a
nd the 335i.
Last week BMW introduced the new 2011 BMW 335iS sport coupe and convertible. These cars introduce the middle-ground between the 335i and the M3. The differences between these cars are only slightly cosmetic, as the N54 engine has been upgraded, as well being given a new “overboost” feature giving the car an additional 37 pound feet of torque. How much torque and horsepower does the car put out? The previous version of the N54 placed just over 300 horsepower, with the torque being just below that number at 295. The new 335iS with upgraded N54 engine puts out 322 horses with 332 torque. That puts overboost at 369 torque! This “Ultimate Driving Machine” has the ability to use its 6-speed transmission to get from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds, and if its wrapped around a new 7-speed automatic it is able to do this in 5 seconds flat. With the upgraded engine the suspension has been beefed as well, resulting in less body roll and more control in the corners. With this car in mind, we can all be assured that BMW still spells performance. The 335iS is aimed at American audiences, so you can be sure to see them on showroom floors in the summer of 2010.
The N54 has always had a lot of potential, and was probably underrated at 300hp/300tq. Seeing as they did make changes to the motor for the 335is, I wouldn't be surprised if the 320hp rating is a little conservative as well.
ReplyDeleteWhat was really interesting is the new N55 that now resides in the 335i. I'm pretty sure "Vlavetronic" is German for "Magic". =P
Oh, whats valvetronic? I think I'm going to like what it is ;)
ReplyDeleteIt is an advanced Variable Valve Timing system. Timing and lift is continuously variable, allowing engine speed to be controlled entirely by valve actuation (meaning no butterfly valve or throttle plate). Obviously this brings with it much more precision in the combustion process, increasing power and efficiency.
ReplyDeletehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valvetronic