Engine Performance Upgrades

Whats up E46 fanatics, Im new here and have been looking around this site for a little while and thought I'd make a post.
What are your guys thoughts on affordable upgrades to maximize the performance of my E46? I currently have a '00 323i. I just feel like it needs more power, and im looking for that extra kick. I have been looking around this site, and from what Ive read some people think cold air intakes are not the way to go as they shorten the life of your engine. I've also heard that they are a great mod. And from what I understand are needed if you want the chip upgrade.
My engine is stock, what do you guys feel should be a good first step to upgrading my engine?
What are your opinions on cold air intake?

What exactly are your...goals

Have a search around. Large amounts of information.

Yes I searched around and couldn't find any information regarding this, I also don't want to be spending my whole night on the computer.

Originally Posted by J1Productions

Yes I searched around and couldn't find any information regarding this, I also don't want to be spending my whole night on the computer.

No one here believes you.

Originally Posted by Gheybe

No one here believes you.

Alright anyone here who isn't a douche that wants to help...?

Originally Posted by J1Productions

Alright anyone here who isn't a douche that wants to help...?

Step 1. Stop acting hopeless.
Step 2. Click this link: http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=523290
Step 3. ????
Step 4. Profit


Welcome to E46Fanatics, where no one buys your bullshit.

What I meant was I didn't find any helpful information on cold air intakes.

Advice: sell it.

And im just asking for opinions, and suggestions.

Originally Posted by choxor

What exactly are your...goals

Horse power gains

And just to play devil's advocate, how much are you willing to spend and what are your expectations.

Expectations? Just a better sounding engine and a little bit of added horse power...
Probably within 500-1000

Originally Posted by J1Productions

Alright anyone here who isn't a douche that wants to help...?

Lol... I'm sorry, but if you really did follow this forum or peak around AT ALL, you'd find an answer to your question.

People here generally will tell you that if you want more power out of a 323 your only hope is forced/chemical induction, otherwise sell it and buy something faster. An intake alone will not net you any real gains, it will however change the sound of your engine to something that many people find better.

Question answered, now go search for more details

Not looking to upgrade exhaust yet, thats out of my budget.

Found in under 30 seconds:

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthr...highlight=mods

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthr...highlight=mods

Goodnight

So your saying I would be better off with a 325?
I bought this car because it was in really good condition, had low miles and got a really good deal on it.

I have a 325, and am it has enough power for me at the moment. I just love the handling of the car, and going from 323 to 325 is not a step up...virtually the same.