e36 318iS (1.9 16v) feels very down on power...

[pete69zx]

So, i am used to driving an e39 530dSport auto which is remapped to approx 220bhp & has approx 500nm of torque.

I have recently (past few weeks) just bought an e36 318iS which feels painfully slow in comparisson.

What DIY tests can be done to find out of im just too used to the massive pull from the diesel, or if infact the 318iS is actually poorly?

Compression test maybee?

I have nevere done one of these before, what special tools do i need & are they expensive?

Im guessing maybee machinemart might have something that could prove to be of use.

Is there anything else i can do to perform an engine health check?

I have just recently had the car serviced from a friends garage.

I also think that maybee the ICV has seen its better days, how can i test this theory?

I have read that on the M44 engine, under no circumstances should the electric cable be dissconnected from the ICV when the engine is running?


Sorry for all the questions, i just need to know the answers!


Regards,
Pete.

[E30Mark]

The easiest route would be to book it in for a power run at your local dyno.

Knackered CAT can sap power, but like you said it maybe that your just too used to the 530d.

[oakey]

Im afraid a 318is would seem phenomenally slow after driving a torquey beast like your 530d

[hammoj28]

E36 is quite a heavy car for the m42 engine. 0-60 in 10seconds apparantley. You are prob just used to the 530d.

[pete69zx]

I hope all the above is correct!

The car just seems a bit chuggy & like it struggles to rev.

I know its a petrol & needs to be well wound up until it hits the torque band 4500 - 5000rpm.


Regards,
Pete.

[schuey]

Yep,IS's dont do a thing until you are fairly high up the rev range

[pete69zx]

Nice looking car Schuey, is it a 318iS?

Regards,
Pete.

[schuey]

Cheers,yep its an IS. I have fitted an E-volve chip which improved the low end performance a fair bit too.