[ExQt0r]

Hey guys,

I own an early 2015 318d 143hp and I'd like it to have some extra juice so I thought about, either remap it (to 179hp would cost ~400€) or, change its components for match the 320d's version.

I've been searching everywhere, but all I've found so far about components swap, doesn't really say what version of the 320d's they're talking about.

And that's where I need your help...

What do I need to do/have, to convert my 318d to a 320d equivalent (for the 163 and for the 184hp)? Can you help?

Thanks

[mmm-five]

You'd definitely need the badge - otherwise all your other efforts will be a waste!

I don't even know if the differences between the models in Portugal are the same as the rest of the world!

You could put your VIN into something like RealOEM (https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select) and use the part # cross-reference to see if the components are shared with the higher output models.

In my case, a pre-LCI N47 F31 320D Touring, it looks like the turbo is only used on the x20D models and the x16d/x18d models have a different turbo part number.

[ExQt0r]

Originally Posted by mmm-five

You'd definitely need the badge - otherwise all your other efforts will be a waste!

I don't even know if the differences between the models in Portugal are the same as the rest of the world!

You could put your VIN into something like RealOEM (https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select) and use the part # cross-reference to see if the components are shared with the higher output models.

In my case, a pre-LCI N47 F31 320D Touring, it looks like the turbo is only used on the x20D models and the x16d/x18d models have a different turbo part number.

That's a good starting point! Thanks!

However, how may I know which parts to look for? That's my biggest doubt.
I mentioned some components, but I'm not even sure if there're more to check for. For instance, I'll check also the gearbox just as a precaution, but... I might be overlooking some stuff...

[mmm-five]

I suppose that's part of the issue with any relatively inexpensive mapping solution vs spend more and buying the correct engine in the first place (or swapping to the correct model later on).

Once you start having to factor in - for example - turbos, cylinder heads, gearboxes, cams, injectors, exhaust, etc...and of course the extra cost of modified vehicle insurance...it becomes much simpler to swap vehicles.

I know it's sometimes hard to do so if you've invested anything in the car (i.e. if you've already done some cosmetic/chassis work) and don't want to spend all that money again...but sometimes it's the simpler option

I really wanted a 330D, but didn't want X-Drive, so spent 3 months looking before I decided a 320D would suffice, as it was only for a 210 mile each way, one a week commute (Mon and Fri). Would I like more power? Of course! Do I miss the effortless overtaking of my older 330D? Of course! Did I save £5k on a 30,000 mile car? Yes I did!

[Zheez]

Unfortunately I don't believe it's worth the effort. As above, the turbo is different and it seems the high pressure fuel pump is also different and so are the injectors. There's probably a bunch of other things.

Fuel pump and injectors alone won't be cheap so it's probably more expensive than just selling the car and buying a 320d.

[bavarianride]

Originally Posted by Zheez

Fuel pump and injectors alone won't be cheap so it's probably more expensive than just selling the car and buying a 320d.

I tend to agree with this suggestion, esp. there likely are many other components that have enhanced specs to hit 320d's power level.

Or OP can just do a tune without hardware upgrades, but obviously that means the existing components can be stressed beyond their specs and fail due to the tune.

So the easiest approach may be to just sell current car and purchase 320d.