Powerhouse
VF-Engineering chose to supercharge the BMW E46 3 Series to improve throttle response and mid-to-top end power with the centrifugal Vortech supercharger. With the 3.0 liter version being a bored and stroked upgrade of the 2.8 motor, both variations are otherwise virtually identical. Maintaining the the original BMW quality, smoothness and reliability were the key factors in the VF design. This is where the VF software comes into full play. All kits are setup at 6 psi and create as much, if not more, power than similar products running greater levels of boost. VF have harnessed reliability of Vortech superchargers and quality of VF custom software with their 10 years of supercharging experience and worldwide OEM supply contacts to create the ultimate supercharger system for the ultimate driver’s car. VF engineers spent over 12 months software testing the BMW Bosch and Siemens ECUs and resolved stalling and MAF issues faced by other supercharger systems. Software flash technology and latest BMW file versions have all been employed to provide the cleanest and the most reliable method of software installation.
functional performance
VF engineers extensively re-wrote the ECU software using their own binary, assembly and disassembly algorithms written from scratch. Testing the software included extensive road and dyno test cycles, with acceleration and deceleration tests for drivability smoothness and ECU fuel management. All test cars were put through long term full throttle testing in conditions varying from wet cold climates to hot dry Arizona desert temperature for safe-optimal air fuel ratios and knock activity monitoring. Competently-written ECU software has allowed VF to fully explore the potential of the BMW engine, making over 40% more power in most applications.
parts list
Supercharger System - 2001-2003 BMW 3-Series (325)