How to Make 500WHP on an N52
If you have any questions about any of the 22RPD products below, you can text us at 253-499-5055.
(Please note that we cannot help with any general car troubleshooting or issues here.)
Stock (190–200whp)
From the factory, the N52 and N51 engines make up to 255 horsepower at the crank, with the 330i offering the highest output variant. Even in stock form, these engines are smooth, rev-happy, and responsive—but many are detuned depending on model and market. That means there's serious potential waiting to be unlocked with the right upgrades.
Before starting to modify your N52 / N51, get your maintenance done to ensure long-term reliability.
New owners and even long-term owners check out the FAQ below
FAQ for N52 + N51 Owners
250–260whp: Full Bolt-Ons + Tune
This is a great budget setup for naturally aspirated performance. A full bolt-on setup includes a performance intake, headers, and either an N54 intake manifold for high-RPM power or the 3-stage DISA for stronger low-end torque. Paired with a proper tune, this combo wakes the engine up and gives it the character BMW should’ve delivered stock.
Parts required:
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
N54 intake manifold or 3 Stage intake manifold (Buy used local or eBay)
Dinan ram with K&N Filter (Guide) or aFe Airbox
270–280whp: Velocity Stacks + Tune
Building on the full bolt-on setup, our new velocity stacks—coming this summer—bring a significant bump in power and a dramatic improvement in induction sound. With our custom tune, the result is a raw, motorsport-like driving experience that redefines what a naturally aspirated N52 can feel like.
Parts required:
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
Secondary cat delete
High Flow Muffler - Vibrant Magnaflow
300whp: Stage 1 Supercharged (8psi)
Boost changes everything. Our Stage 1 22RPD supercharger kit running 8psi, paired with the existing full bolt-ons, brings the N52/N51 into true performance territory. Power delivery is linear, throttle response is razor-sharp, and the setup stays streetable and reliable—perfect for the enthusiast ready to cross into forced induction.
Parts required:
22RPD stage 1 supercharger kit
N54 intake manifold
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
350whp: Stage 2 Supercharged (10psi + Meth)
Stage 2 cranks things up with a smaller pulley for 10psi and introduces a methanol injection system. Meth helps suppress knock and lower intake temps, allowing for more timing and power. With our custom tune, this setup hits harder across the RPM range and remains efficient thanks to smart cooling and fueling strategies.
Parts required:
22RPD stage 2 supercharger kit (Includes Methanol Injection)
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
N54 intake manifold
400whp: Stage 3 Supercharged (12psi)
Here, we push the same platform even further. Stage 3 increases boost to 12psi, maximizing the capabilities of the ESS-based supercharger system. Supporting mods remain the same, but the gains are substantial—putting the N52/N51 in league with more powerful factory turbo engines, all while retaining that signature naturally aspirated feel.
Parts required:
22RPD stage 3 supercharger kit
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
N54 intake manifold
If manual: New OEM clutch & 550i pressure plate
500whp: Stage 4 Supercharged (High Boost + Fueling Upgrades)
This is the ultimate evolution. Our new Stage 4 kit raises boost even higher and demands serious fueling—enter the Walbro 535 fuel pump, a dedicated EKP cooler kit to manage the extra current draw, and dual methanol nozzles to keep temps in check. It’s an all-out setup for those chasing maximum power from the N52/N51 platform without engine swaps.
Parts required:
22RPD Stage 4 Supercharger Kit (Contact 22RPD for inquiries)
Walbro 535 fuel pump
E85
OR custom S54 Headers / Supersprint
N54 intake manifold
Pre-supercharger methanol nozzle holder
