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If you are considering forced induction for your vehicle, or any BMW for that matter, there are several things to consider. There are the basic issues like, turbo versus supercharger, which manufacturer and how much boost pressure. But also equally important are issues of how other components within your car may need to be improved to adequately deal with all of that upgraded hp. It is hardly ever the case where you can simply buy a supercharger and you are all set without needing to consider these other issues.

I won't try to address every BMW model in terms of forced induction, there are just too many versions to cover here. Nevertheless, generally, superchargers result in a slightly less expensive, simpler to install solution. These kits often make 6-8 lbs of boost and the average home mechanic can easily install a quality application in 6 hours. Superchargers will often make impressive horsepower but many suppliers do not make a impressive amount of low RPM torque. So, for daily driving you will not feel much of an improvement until you are in the higher RPMs. Turbos result in huge power potential, make a lot of low end torque but can result in a more technical installation. In high boost pressure kits you commonly need to decrease the compression ratio through either a spacer head gasket or shorter pistons. There are more components to a turbo application as well, made up of things like an intercooler, bypass valve, blow off valve, waste gate, exhaust manifold, larger injectors, etc. The typical home mechanic will often not be able to complete this installation. A trained mechanic will need 8-12 hours depending on the kit and this can increase the total expense of the project. However, the higher power is worth it as long as it is in your budget.

Brakes: If you build a 400 or 500 HP BMW you better have 400 or 500 HP brakes. Increased power results in more acceleration, superior speed and much greater demands on your braking system. Typical upgrades here include bigger diameter rotors, multi piston calipers, sport brake pads, stainless steel brake lines and premium brake fluid. Make this the first things you upgrade after installing a turbo or supercharger.

Drivetrain: If you have a manual transmission, seriously consider upgrading your clutch. The Sachs heavy duty clutch is great for low boost kits with high boost kits requiring a UUC, Clutchmaster or similar application. You might as well swap it out right now, because your OEM clutch will likely die very quickly otherwise. This is typically about a 6 hour project for many mechanics.

Cooling System: Horsepower makes heat. Your BMW's cooling system is designed to deal with your factory power heat output. Should you live in a hot climate, track your car or do a lot of high speed driving you need superior cooling. Your best bet here is to buy a higher capacity, performance radiator. Ensure the system is flushed and has new fluid. You can also install engine heat shielding to keep the heat away from your intake and special hoods that have slots in them to allow the heat to escape quickly.

Your Skills: The most important thing to upgrade is your driving skill. All of that hp can get you in a lot of trouble and you do not want to be hurt or hurt anybody else. A perfect place to begin is to check out BMWCCA driving schools. These are modestly priced and you really learn a lot. There are also many other professionally run driving schools around the USA that have the ability to teach you how to safely drive your high performance BMW.