Hey buddy,

I have an 09 Z and have been thinking about trading it in for a 2012 bmw 135i. I see you have owned both cars (08 bmw 135i has the same powerplant as the 2012), I wanted your objective opinion on each as far as power and driving experience between the two. I'm assuming you started with the JB4 and panel filter so you would know the increased power feel.

On my Z I have intake (gen 2, so probably not much help), exhaust, test pipes, and uprev tuned. I love the Z, but it's just not enough power for me anymore and just to squeeze out another 20-30 HP (PPE headers and plenum mod) would be costly (1,500$), plus the TQ could not even come close to the 135i. Basically, is the power of the 135i w/ the JB4 and panel filter significantly noticeable over the Z? It would have to be much faster, like throw me back in my seat fast for me to make the switch. I know there is much more potential from there, but that will come over time. I see the numbers below for the 335i, but I'm looking for an opinion based on owning both. Completely disregard looks, just your opinion solely based on how much more noticeably quicker is the 135i over the Z.

My apologies for the long message, but I do appreciate you taking the time to read and respond. It's a big decision and I can't imagine getting advice from anyone better than you, who have owned both cars. Your private message box is full, that's why I posted it here.

Thanks a lot buddy,
Steve