Weight reduction for roadgoing car?

Question

I own a BMW 1 series type e 87 with a factory weight of 1340 kg. Does anybody have any idea on approximately how much weight I will save by removing all of the interior fittings which are not related to racing (and I mean EVERYTHING, right down to the bare metal).

Any suggestions on lightweight interior fittings (seats, instruments, roll cages and other accessories) will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Answer 1

U could try stripping all it's soundproofing materials. I can't really say how much weight u'll lose by doing this, but this is usually the first step a typical garage would do in order to make a car race-ready. Apart from that, removing all ur interior panels and seats, carpets, etc would help. Also as mentioned, removing the aircond system is a good move. You can also remove unwanted wiring in the car. I read an article sometime ago where this guy managed to remove about 300 pounds of unwanted wiring in his 240sx. Not sure whether it's true though but it's worth a try.

As for suggestions, go carbon fibre dude! Bonnet, bootlid, fenders. Also replace all ur screens with plexiglass.

Answer 2

You could take out the air conditioning compressor and other a/c parts, including the a/c radiator. That's a LOT of weight. As far as the interior, I'd definately take out the back seat, and maybe the front passenger seat, if equipped as a separate seat.

Answer 3

estimated with rear seats out only about 20 pounds lol not very much if you want weight reduction change all the chassis parts to aluminum or any lightweight material... only way your gonna lose the weight of the car

Answer 4

removing interiors dont really save much weight. Have you ever taken out your back seats? It just foam, virtually weightless. I guess you can remove everything including door panels and your dash and have everything fiberglassed.