Your opinion: Put $1k toward engine, or suspension?

[Finneganistan]

I have a new to me 2013 135Is. It has ~70k miles currently, and is my daily driver. I have no plans to track the car.

I know this is entirely subjective! But. In your opinions, would you put the $1k into engine mods or suspension bits? Did you go one way, then wish you had gone the other first?

[tracer bullet]

I'd go:

M3 rear subframe bushings
Great tires
MHD tune

Also CDV delete, if it came with one (clutch delay valve)

[Finneganistan]

Thank you. I'm leaning toward suspension first.. but the allure of more power is hard to resist!

[iminhell1]

More power is simply a MHD tune. That's cheap.
Put the rest into brakes, suspension, tires.

[Finneganistan]

Originally Posted by iminhell1

More power is simply a MHD tune. That's cheap.
Put the rest into brakes, suspension, tires.

Brakes already seem very good. Tires are easy. How should I approach the suspension? It seems there is a ton of information out there, but it's all anecdotal and subjective.

I saw a Tire Rack vid posted here showing a controlled test of tires, and how different widths affected handling. It was fantastic! I'd love to see something similar with suspension components. But there are so many variables that seems impossible.

[fast1eddy]

Power is nothing without control. I’d start with any maintenance the car needs first. If you’re mostly interested in a good driving street car I’d do dampers and rear subframe bushings first.

[RealBenM]

I agree with fast1eddy to be honest. Check the car over and see what it needs. Deal with that first then go from there.

I am in exactly the same situation. Mine needs rear suspension sorting and I'll do that first before doing a tune (and downpipe... and exhaust... )

[iminhell1]

Originally Posted by Finneganistan

Brakes already seem very good. Tires are easy. How should I approach the suspension? It seems there is a ton of information out there, but it's all anecdotal and subjective.

I saw a Tire Rack vid posted here showing a controlled test of tires, and how different widths affected handling. It was fantastic! I'd love to see something similar with suspension components. But there are so many variables that seems impossible.

Koni yellows and just about any spring.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-koni-par...rt/e9xkonispt/


Brakes may be fine. But when pushed they might not. Just go easy until you know. For myself, I found the fluid to be inadequate for very high speed braking (150+). Switched to DOT 5.1 and have had no problems since.

Once you get some power to the car you'll find that the rear end won't feel predictable. Bushings are too soft and the E-Diff can't react fast enough. Mechanical LSD and good bushings make for a far more fun car. Things for future upgrades.

[NorthernDancer]

Yes suspension and DRIVING SCHOOLS.

[ShocknAwe]

Suspension. LSD. TIRES. I'm assuming maintenance has already been performed and car is in good shape.

Power on turbo cars is easy and a huge can or worms if the chassis isnt sorted.

If considering subframe get solid aluminum and press in, buy once cry once.