Modifying the 8 (archive)

You seem aware that modifying an 8 is largely a "custom" job without the normal off the shelf parts or pre-packaged solutions available for other cars like the Lexus SC. Since only just over 3000 were sold in the US, not much is available. For instance, no one makes "clear corners" so you'd have to have them molded for $$$$.

Since the car is all computer driven and BMW has the BIOS and other software locked down as proprietary, its difficult to do things like integrate a GPS NAV or DVD system with the current system. As with everything, with enough time and money anything is possible. :-).

Thanks to the number of 540s, supercharging the 840 may be the easiest engine modification to provide power in the range of 400hp since its been done with the 540. Tuning the V12 to 350 hp or so is easy enough with chips, exhaust, and intake manifold extrude honing. After that you're into serious engine building with strokers, cams, heads, turbos, etc. ranging from $10k to Dinan's $40k. With a modified V12 you should be able to reach about 450-500hp in normally aspirated form and as much as 600hp or more in forced form. One caveat: The automatic boxes apparently don't stand up well to much more than 400hp and could be a problem.

Whenever modifications to suspension or hp come up I feel obligated to point out that the car in stock form or with even just minor changes is a handful to drive. Modification money is likely better spent on performance driving schools, particularly since in reality the driver is usually the weak point, not the car's ability. First identify any deficiencies (if you can find them) then modify.

Also prepare to be flamed by the "worship at the alter of stock" crowd. Although alteration is many times good, 8 series owners tend to covet the cars in stock form for better or worse. I have to admit to largley believing in upgrades along only factory paths with parts borrowed from other BMWs, particularly if you'd like to retain the car's value.

Funny that you mention that the car could look as good as any of the new cars out there. My 1991 is regularly mistaken for a new yr 2000 BMW model that people are unfamiliar with. A nine year old car. Go figure.

GregK
1991 850 6spd
1988 M5

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