235 vs 335 n54

[Maniac0908]

Iv been looking at the 235. I love it. But is it worth it? When fully tuned who is faster? Who has more potential?

[ShocknAwe]

Well you're really comparing the N54 to the N55 with this question. So I would start there.

[epic]

I came from a cobb tuned '08 335xi to my now M235i.

I do not miss my 335 one bit. So much more fun in every which way - and I get much better MPG.

[Maniac0908]

Which was faster? Had more acceleration?

[epic]

Benchracing: Driver's race. The 335xi (cobb stage 1) generally sees a 13 flat in the 1/4 give or take a tenth. M235i is a 12.9 car.

The e92 feels good but after driving the M235i for a month, it made me realize how heavy and lethargic it was in turns (bigger, awd). The power band is so much more predictable and fun in the 2. Many agree that the 2 just begs you to drive it hard and the revs will go wherever you want them to at any moment. Mine is the 8speed auto and is the closest to a dual clutch out of the many cars I've been in when it's in Sport + and in S mode. It kills me my vette is a dinosaur in comparison in terms of shifts.

I'd be very upset if you told me I had to take my old car back.

To put it in even better terms: My gf told me to not buy this car. A few days later I bought it unbeknownst to her, brought it home where she was not happy to see it, let her take it for a spin, and she giggled saying "I get why you wanted this" and I never heard a complaint since.

[th1rd3y3]

I have both. F30 335 x-drive and now an M235i. Honestly, as far as fun goes there isn't a comparison. The 335 has the adaptive suspension, vss, paddles but it's still not where the M235 is. The 335 is great as I have 2 kids and it's my wifes daily car, it's fun, but not like the M235.

[Maniac0908]

Hm. Maybe its time for an upgrade

[Mr Kleen]

Originally Posted by epic

The e92 feels good but after driving the M235i for a month, it made me realize how heavy and lethargic it was in turns (bigger, awd).

Compare a 3er with AWD to one without and you'll find much the same thing. BMW's AWD system is a buzkill: oversteer like an Audi, numb feel and increased turning radius. I came from a Subaru and, after test driving both versions back to back, was shocked at how fun averse the BMW AWD system was.

(My local BMW buddies will see this post and shake their heads at my beating this dead horse)

[tooch]

M235i is the way to go at this point if not the M4

[fcman]

Originally Posted by ShocknAwe

Well you're really comparing the N54 to the N55 with this question. So I would start there.

There isn't really much info out there with the new n55 turbo (electronic wastegate), but BMS made >410whp with JB4, intake and E85 and the few other owners out there are seeing similar numbers. I would say the N55 will most likely be the way to go for bolt-on power moving forward.

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by fcman

There isn't really much info out there with the new n55 turbo (electronic wastegate), but BMS made >410whp with JB4, intake and E85 and the few other owners out there are seeing similar numbers. I would say the N55 will most likely be the way to go for bolt-on power moving forward.

Obviously you can do it with e85... unfortunately E85 is not bolt on power, it's akin to running meth (also not really simple or straight forward) and really should be done in conjunction with fuel delivery mods which are not bolt on. Sure you can dump some in the tank but its not representative of pump power delivery.

Regardless, the M235 will definitely be more "lively" compared to a clumsy AWD pig heavy 3 series. That is not a good comparison, and if those are the two options then the choice is clear, go for the 2er.