The BMW 335is has always been a topic of fascination for enthusiasts. Officially, BMW states the 335is horsepower at 320 hp. However, a lingering question persists: is the actual output closer to 335 hp, mirroring its sibling, the Z4 sDrive 35is? Both cars share the same engine, rated at an identical 332 lb-ft of torque at 1500 rpm and peak power at 5900 rpm, with a 7000 rpm redline. This similarity in specifications raises eyebrows and fuels speculation about the true Bmw 335is Hp figures.
BMW’s marketing explanation points to a less restrictive intake system on the Z4 as the reason for its higher advertised horsepower. Yet, doubts remain. Rumors within BMW itself, mentioned in early press coverage, hinted at internal disagreements regarding the 335is’s power rating. This only adds to the intrigue surrounding the seemingly understated BMW 335is hp.
Further clouding the issue are dyno results. Independent tests on the 335is often show wheel horsepower figures in the 285-295 hp range. While drivetrain losses account for some difference between crank and wheel horsepower, these numbers seem to suggest the engine might be producing more than the officially stated 320 hp at the crank.
Interestingly, even reputable automotive publications sometimes inadvertently contribute to the confusion. A Roundel article discussing the BMW 1M, a car often compared to the 335is, referenced the 335is as having 335 hp. This slip-up, whether intentional or not, reflects the persistent murmur that the 335is might be underrated.
Perhaps the most compelling piece of evidence comes directly from BMW itself. A look into the online owner’s manual for the 3 Series Coupe/Convertible reveals a surprising detail in the technical specifications section: the BMW 335is maximum power is listed as 335 hp!
So, is it 320 hp or 335 hp? The evidence suggests the BMW 335is could indeed be producing 335 hp, the same as the Z4 sDrive 35is. Could BMW’s marketing department have deliberately downplayed the 335is hp to create a clearer performance gap between it and the more powerful M3? Or are these discrepancies simply due to typos and marketing adjustments? The true BMW 335is hp figure remains a fascinating, and perhaps intentionally obscured, detail in the car’s legacy.
