2011 convertible and coupe BMW 3-Series gets refreshed engine, single turbo for 335i
The BMW 3 Series sedan is expected to hit the market by 2011 as a 2012 model but the carmaker is not taking things lightly as it gives the current 3 Series coupe and convertible a mild upgrade inside and out for the 2011 model.
The most noticeable change are the reshaped headlamp clusters making the design go well with the wider grille and lower front end of the car. The tail lights retain their old shape but the reflectors got a reworked detailing. The hood looks a bit wider, side mirrors more extended, and the air dam at the tail end of the car also gets more contour lines.
Aside from its looks, the 3-Series has some changes under its hood. A single turbo version will be replacing the twin turbo charged 3.0L. The new engine called N55 was recently launched as the power plants for the 535i Gran Turismo and for the 740i. The new engine resolves the turbo lag which might have been experienced by drivers with the twin turbo system. The N55 makes use of dual exhaust inlets that result to faster spinning of the turbine because of the better balance achieved with the incoming pulses.
BMW also boasts of a cleaner cold starting with the reduction of the emission by directing all the exhaust gases into a single and bigger catalytic converter which warms up faster. The intake of the engine makes use of the Valvetronic variable valve control system technology.
The direct fuel injected N55 gives the same 300 horspe power and 300 lb-ft of torque to the 3-Series but the torque maintains its peak at 1,200 to 5,000 rpm.
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too fast and too responsive. Again, this is at stock boost levels. Also note that the vanes themselves are easily adjustable allowing the end user to turn the responsiveness of the turbo up or down to suit their preference.
So the cliff-notes version of all this is stock boost levels = same peak horsepower. However with the Aerocharger we are able to double the usable torque band, making even the 4-spd 930's a fast and efficient street car with exceptional driveability and low-end power. Exactly what these cars have needed since they hit showrooms 1975.
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