New to the forum and had some questions regarding general upgrades.

[97sean328i]

As you may be able to see in my name, I drive a 97 328i. I've saved some cash from my summer job and I would like to do some "tricking" out of my BMW. First things first, Im going to need body work and a paint job.. Afterwards I would like to add a full body kit, rims, and tints to my lights (not sure what they are called if they have a name). I have 2 questions... What sequence should I get the work done so that it's cost efficient and i dont have to jump around places... and more specifically, how much should I expect to pay for high end upgrades to my car? I wish I could be a little bit more detailed as to what I want to do, however I am pressed for time so any comments or questions you may have will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Seanie.

[BeRzErKaS]

How about adding some basic performance mods first? ...instead of going straight for the bodykit and rimzz.

Might I suggest a CAI and an ECU chip. If you search our e36 forum you will find the popular brands.

[97sean328i]

Besides the obvious performance enhancement, what exactly do those chips do and how would I get them installed?

[BeRzErKaS]

A chip will increase HP by adjusting your timing and fine tuning your Air/Fuel curve. But I just noticed that your car is OBDII. You will need your ECU flashed.

www.turnermotorsport.com (http://www.turnermotorsport.com)
www.dinancars.com (http://www.dinancars.com)
www.activeautowerke.com (http://www.activeautowerke.com)
www.techniquetuning.com (http://www.techniquetuning.com)

Are all good places to start. (not in that particular order)

[jimbolina]

Wouldn't you want to get the bodykit the same time as you are getting the bodywork done and THEN get a paint job?

[Clarke]

If all you want is a flashy ride then go for it and enjoy.:thumbup: Might I offer a different plan though? Get a real good mechanical going over especially suspension and brakes make sure she really can handle the way a Bimmer should(possibly some suspension upgrades).Once you know it's up to snuff, upgrade the driver. Driving schools,autocrosses and track time are a real blast! Welcome:hi: and have fun either way(keep some money set aside for unplanned car problems)

[my_e36]

Sounds like you want to have the look, to become a more head-turner of a car than it already is.

Order body-kit first, install it the same time as you do your body-work, then the paint work.
Tints you can do that anytime, but I would say do that afte the paint work
Rims can go in at a later stage, follow by suspension
Don't go overboard with rim & suspension as I am sure you don't want to damage your new body-kit by a kerb or speed humps!

[SmootheEar]

im in the same boat as you are. recently got in an accident, giving me the oppotunity to do all the things your talking about. ya sure it may be more 'show' than 'go', but my mechanic has his limitations regarding insurance labor.

I would recommend to ditch the kit. The only one that looks worthwhile is the M3 conversion... if we had M3s. I would change the door side plastic moldings to the M3, while removing the badges, lower the front about 3/4", and do extensive work on the lights. I'm adding a small spoiler and lip kit, but maybe thats too 'tricked out' for you.

My car is almost out of the shop. From what I see thus far, its like a whole different kind of bimmer. Sorry if my suggestions seem a bit conservative, but I was restricted by my insurance payout from the accident.

EDIT: Make sure you get all your lights from the same manufacturer, it makes a huge difference.