In previous articles, I have mentioned my strong belief that the 1996-1998 BMW 3 series cars with the M52 engines, the E36 328i, 328is, and 328ic, offer the best all around value of the E36 cars, US spec M3 models included. The 2.8 liter M52 engine is rated at 193 hp, only 4 more than the M50 than it replaced, but its 20 ft lbs torque advantage is felt at lower rpms due in part to the redesigned intake manifold and greater displacement. This, despite the 2.93 open differential these cars are saddled with in 5 speed manual transmission form, makes the 328i/328is feel much stronger at lower rpms than the M50 or M50TU powered 325i and 325is. While there are many, many modifications you can do to your 328i/is to get more out of its engine, below are a few basic guidelines for more horsepower.