FCP Euro N55 Pure500 Turbo Upgrade: Comprehensive Review and Dyno Testing
The Pure500 turbocharger upgrade for the BMW N55 engine has garnered significant attention, but misinformation persists. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the Pure500’s capabilities, specifically focusing on its performance with both 93 octane and E85 fuel. We will delve into real-world feedback from Pure500 owners, compare the Pure500 to the stock N55 turbos (both PWG and EWG variants), and outline a comprehensive dyno testing methodology designed to showcase the turbo’s true potential.
The Pure500’s standout feature is its ability to deliver stock-like low-end torque response while significantly increasing top-end power. Owners consistently report maintaining the factory 2500 RPM torque curve, crucial for daily driving responsiveness. Unlike many aftermarket turbos that shift the torque curve higher, sacrificing low-end performance, the Pure500 retains drivability while providing substantial power gains throughout the rev range, especially towards redline where the stock turbo typically falls off.
Contrary to some claims, the Pure500 is not merely a Stage 1 turbo or a replica of the stock unit. The N55 utilizes two different stock turbos: the older, smaller PWG (pneumatic wastegate) version and the newer, higher-flowing EWG (electronic wastegate) version. An EWG turbo generally produces around 30 more horsepower than a PWG turbo with the same tune. The Pure500 boasts a larger turbine and compressor wheel compared to both stock variants, resulting in a significantly increased flow capacity and potential power output estimated up to 70 horsepower over stock.
The Pure500 caters to two distinct customer groups: those using 93 octane fuel and those utilizing flex-fuel capabilities. For the former, the Pure500 serves as an excellent replacement for aging stock turbos, offering a direct bolt-on installation, increased performance, a competitive price point, and no core charge. This is particularly appealing to owners without access to ethanol fuel or facing restrictions on HPFP (high-pressure fuel pump) upgrades.
For performance-oriented drivers with access to ethanol blends like E30, E50, or E85, the Pure500 unlocks even greater potential. When combined with appropriate fueling and tuning modifications, this turbo delivers impressive power gains and a sustained power curve beneficial for track use. The consistent torque and power delivery make the Pure500 adaptable to various track layouts and driving conditions.
To quantify the Pure500’s performance gains, a series of dyno tests will be conducted using both 93 octane and E85 fuels. This will involve four separate dyno sessions: two with the stock EWG turbo and two with the Pure500, each using both fuel types. This comprehensive approach will provide a direct comparison between the stock and upgraded turbos under different fueling conditions. Bootmod3 Stage 2/2+ tunes will be utilized for 93 octane testing, while Bootmod3 FlexFuel Stage 2/2+ MultiMap tunes will be employed for E85 testing. Further testing with custom Pure500-specific tunes may also be explored.
A crucial consideration when upgrading to the Pure500 is the stock MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor. The stock 2.5 bar sensor may be insufficient to accurately measure the higher boost levels achievable with the Pure500. Upgrading to a 3.5 bar MAP sensor, such as the VDO 3.5 bar sensor available from FCP Euro, is recommended. This ensures accurate boost readings for proper tuning and performance monitoring. The Bootmod3 software allows for configuration adjustments to accommodate the upgraded sensor. This upgrade prevents boost spikes from exceeding the sensor’s limit, ensuring accurate data logging for tuning purposes.
This comprehensive testing process will provide valuable insights into the Pure500’s performance capabilities across various fuel types and tuning configurations, helping potential buyers make informed decisions. The project aims to answer outstanding questions surrounding this popular turbo upgrade and shed light on its true potential.