Bought completely stock, I built this Black on Red 6 speed manual 2008 135i to be a highly engaging daily driver. The 1 series is in my opinion a very slept-on option for driving enthusiasts. The N54, although finicky is an incredible engine delivering outstanding power in a platform that is still very analogue. The driving dynamics are very tight with the upgraded suspension, and the size and weight of this platform make it very exciting to drive. Power-wise, with these turbos I believe I am making around 400whp.More power is definitely possible, these turbo's are rated to up to over 500WHP. The problem being more power would require an upgraded clutch and low-pressure fuel pump, which is a lot of work, and frankly 400hp is more than enough for me. Now I hear some people already saying that stock turbos are capable of producing 400WHP with all the bolt-ons and good gas, BUT they make it quite low in the rev range and fall on their face around 5500 RPM. With these upgraded turbos there is no added lag, and the power stays very strong all the way to red-line. I'd love to dyno the car someday. The name of the game with the N54 is maintenance, maintenance, and then more maintenance, if you are willing to work on your own cars and replace things the second they start acting up, then this is a very rewarding car to own. If you don't the differed maintenance will kill your love for these cars very quickly. Next up for mods is a M3 steering rack to improve steering feel and quicken up the steering, and likely some shifter bits to really get the shifter feel to the next level. Its not uncommon for people to convert these into 1Ms, I'd love to do that, but the cost will be excruciatingly high. Maybe when I'm a lot richer...
