Supercharger or Turbo

[sjlucky]

I'm researching some futures installs which includes either a supercharger or a turbo. I know that there are a lot out there that has installed one or the other. I'm really looking for performance issues and technical issues that directly relates to the maintainability and drivability (such as what other components will I need to change with either supercharger or turbo). Also brands and companies, different pressures...etc. What is the advantages or disadvantages (noise, weight, installation, etc.) to either system. Compariative chart or websites that answers my questions will help! Also, different kits that comes with different components (such as intake, or software changes and/or effects on them with/without the installation). Some kits comes with certain components that also sell independently. I just don't want to be installing twice. Lists of combinations of different components (suspension, software, clutch systems, etc.) will help. That way there is a planned upgrade to reach. Obviously combinations that have proven effective to work effciently together will be great! Thanks.

[Brad D.]

Originally posted by sjlucky
I'm researching some futures installs which includes either a supercharger or a turbo. I know that there are a lot out there that has installed one or the other. I'm really looking for performance issues and technical issues that directly relates to the maintainability and drivability (such as what other components will I need to change with either supercharger or turbo). Also brands and companies, different pressures...etc. What is the advantages or disadvantages (noise, weight, installation, etc.) to either system. Compariative chart or websites that answers my questions will help! Also, different kits that comes with different components (such as intake, or software changes and/or effects on them with/without the installation). Some kits comes with certain components that also sell independently. I just don't want to be installing twice. Lists of combinations of different components (suspension, software, clutch systems, etc.) will help. That way there is a planned upgrade to reach. Obviously combinations that have proven effective to work effciently together will be great! Thanks.

A supercharger is the easiest bolt on. If you run 6psi only, you don't really have that much to change.

A turbocharger is awesome, gives you way more torque than a s/c, but is more involved. Mine at 6.5-whatever PSI has larger injectors, software, etc... It's pretty complicated.

Also with a turbocharger you will need to run an intercooler.

As far as prices, my turbo kit was $7500 installed, and you can barely get a S/C with installation for that price.

[M3RACER]

I would recommend you purchase/read Maximum boost by Corky Bell. By reading this book you'll understand force induction much better and can make a much better determination of what your getting into than by asking on a forum.

[Brad D.]

Originally posted by M3RACER
I would recommend you purchase/read Maximum boost by Corky Bell. By reading this book you'll understand force induction much better and can make a much better determination of what your getting into than by asking on a forum.

I agree, I am no expert, but I can definitely tell you that a turbo kit:

1) Has more pieces to install.
2) Usually requires exhaust modification like cutting and welding.
3) You have to install an intercooler, especially on our high compression engines.
4) Superchargers make less torque because they use engine power to run the compressor.
5) Superchargers (the ones available for the BMW) make power linear with RPM, and turbochargers make power lower in the RPM range.

That about sums it up.