Intakes for M54... fit X3 ???

[818Guy]

I was wondering if anyone knows whether intakes for a 330i sedan (by way of example) will fit in the X3? Same engine, M54, I'm just not sure on actual fitment in the engine bay...

If anyone has info, please post. Thanks.

Edit: For that matter, does an intake for the X5 3.0 "fit" in the X3 3.0?

[MysticBlueX3]

I was comparing my X3's engine bay with my friends 330i's and the placement of parts look identical. AFE makes an intake for the X3, http://www.afefilters.com/5410451.asp They spec the fitment for E46 Chassis 330i, X3 3.0L. I guess you can give them a call and double check about the fitment. I would be interested if all 330i intake will fit the X3 also. There was an AFE group buy awhile back, http://www.x3world.com/group-buys/89...-reminder.html Think the price for X3 3.0 was $350.

Which intake are you looking at? I've heard that aftermarket intake will reduce power in your lower rpm but increase power in high rpms. True or false?

[818Guy]

Yeah, the AFE appears to be identical. However, at 3 bills or more for the intake... I'll pass.

Not really looking for anyone in particular, it's that there are more choices with the 330 than the X3...

[818Guy]

Originally Posted by MysticBlueX3

I've heard that aftermarket intake will reduce power in your lower rpm but increase power in high rpms. True or false?

Ahhh, the much debated question.

In "theory" if you can get a cold-air intake, it should improve overall hp, usually at the high rpm range. However, I've had short ram (2000 Eclipse GT and 2004 Mazda RX-8) and CAI (2003 Acura TL Type-S) intakes. One thing I personally felt was the short ram gave me better throttle response from the pedal - especially with the Eclipse. On the flip side, I thought the short ram in the RX-8 just KILLED low end torque. That rotary engine only worked with the factory intake. Can't say much about the CAI in the Acura, overall there wasn't much change except for sound.

Any intake can be loud at WOT.

[818Guy]

Actually, the ECIS intake is interesting... CARB approved.

http://www.ecisbmw.com/product_files...E-46%20330.pdf

[White05X3]

What is your goal with the intake? Do you like the sound (many people do) or are you looking for HP?

[818Guy]

Some "sound" and possibly better throttle response. HP gain? That's another myth - unless you drive at redline all the time.

[White05X3]

Yeah... the added HP is marginal at best. I imagine that any CAI will fit the AFM, but the points where it mounts to the body might be different.

[818Guy]

Yeah, that's what I'm thinking - different mounting points. My GF has a '04 330Ci, I may "study" things this weekend.

[MysticBlueX3]

I think California requires intakes to be C.A.R.B. certified. The only intakes that meets it is ECIS and Dinan. ECIS sells one for the E46 for $325. I wonder if it would fit. I'll send them an email and report back.