In the December 2008 issue, we shake down the three compact German musclecars of the day - BMW M3, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Audi RS4. For current or aspiring owners, this buyers guide showcases the latest performance upgrades for all three platforms. Compiled by Anthony Gelinas
BMW M3
Active Autowerke has created engine management upgrades based on various tuning options available for the new M3. While the software recalibrations vary based on other modifications, the basic tuning principals are still the same. AA software has been programmed to remap the DME tables, recalibrate throttle response, and optimize ignition timing and fuel delivery. Contact for pricing.
Active Autowerke
877.233.9303
www.activeautowerke.com
Every shifted gear interrupts drivetrain momentum, so anything you can do to make those transitions as smooth and quick as possible can reduce zero-to-60 and quarter-mile times. This Active Autowerke short shifter kit is engineered as a direct replacement for the factory assembly and requires no modifications to install. It is said to reduce the distance between shifts by a claimed 30 percent. To further enhance feel, an optional weighted (8.25 ounces vs. the stock 3.25) signature Active Autowerke knob, with included leather boot, is available. $475
Active Autowerke
877.233.9303
www.activeautowerke.com
At first glance, the Eisenmann rear muffler section for the E92 looks like a factory-installed piece. Manufactured in Germany from 304 stainless steel, this assembly utilizes two muffler sections joined together by a twin bypass system designed to equalize pressure and optimize flow. Depending on your needs or tolerance for sound, it is available in sport and race versions. $2,839
Eisenmann
866.963.4520
www.ind-distribution.com
Swapping the stock pulleys for lightweight versions reduces rotational mass and decreases parasitic drag on your engine. Evosport has developed a Power Pulley system for the S65 V8 equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. The kit replaces the crankshaft pulley with a black anodized, T-6061 billet aluminum unit and includes a replacement belt and new crankshaft bolts - helpful, since these bolts can be difficult to remove. $395
Evosport
714.901.3100
www.evosport.com
There's no denying the E92 M3 is more at home on a road course than the quarter mile. That's not so say it doesn't have good power, but there's more to be had, so it was only a matter of time before a forced induction system found its way under the hood. Supercharging has traditionally been the most successful way to tap the hidden power in BMW engines, and G-power offers its EVO-SK compressor systems in three different trim levels with output ranging from 525-635 hp. Contact for pricing.
Far beyond a simple filter and bracket combo, GruppeM's S65 intake is a completely reengineered intake system. One unique feature is that it takes advantage of three inlets for air to be drawn into the airbox assembly via a carbon-fiber front bumper scoop, an extension into the hood scoop, and the two kidney grille inlets. The main benefit comes at high on-road speeds when air is naturally pressurized around these three areas. $2,456.23
Milltek's cat-back exhaust is manufactured from anti-magnetic, type-304, aircraft-grade stainless steel for great durability. This material also allows it to be less susceptible to discoloration. The system features full-flow, mandrel-bent piping and high-flow real silencers, each with twin 3.5-inch tailpipes. With the completion of the cat-back portion, development has begun on the next big restriction, the factory downpipes. Contact for pricing.
Milltek
866.533.1777
www.stratmosphere.com