Question on Supercharging a Z3

[280ztoZ3]

I have an opportunity to by a Supercharged 1997 Z3 with 40,000 miles that is just beautiful for $14,900. Other goodies include 18" wheels, and many other "M" parts. A buddy from my gym (who has a z3) said that he would never buy a supercharged BMW because there are no BMW manufactured Superchargers and it shortens the life of the engine. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated appreciated. ALternatively, if anyone has a low mileage z3 for sale in the Philadelphia area in this price range I would be interested in hearing from you as well. No black, red, or white though. Just a personal preference..

[TIATO]

Which Z3: 1.9 or 2.8?

Ture there are no BMW manufactured superchargers, if they did they would surely use an eaton unit as most manufacturers do.

I dont think that a supercharged engine will lead a shorter life if care is taken driving it. Any engine will falter sooner than later if abused.

[bimmerpwr]

If you can, get the compression & leak down test on the motor. Also, make sure AFR is right under WOT by taking the car to a dynoshop or looking at the wide band AFR gauge if that car has one.

With all things checked out (check who tuned the car and make sure tuning is good, that's the main key), I don't think having FI matters much unless you are planning on driving that car to 200k or something.

Anyways, good luck! :)

[themadhatter]

your friend is right with the superchargers, if you do not consider the Mini to be a BMW. the Mini Cooper S has a factory installed supercharger, take that into consideration.

One thing BMW did do was install Turbos on the gasoline engined cars, the 7er and the 2002 were available with Turbos.

you will have no longevity problems if you use the proper care and equipment when running such a system.

-Ron

[Dark Helmet]

either of those motors is fine if you can document the install and get a pre-cat O2 reading at WOT and part-throttle that are not out of whack.

with either one you might want to call randy forbes about a re-inforced diff mount.

otherwise, no problems.