Reading Topic: Turbos
So why not make a low pressure compressor? Tolerances could be less because the turbine wouldn't spin as fast, and we could do away with oil-cooled bearings. Despite lower tolerances, reliability I'd hope would still be high or higher. With a low boost, most of the engine could remain stock. How much engineering goes into measuring and bending pipes?
The rest of the auto industry (heck, almost every industry) is modular. The turbo industry (like that term?) produce a one-size-fits-most compresser, filter, and intercooler. They could be connected by bolt-on custom plumbing, which takes only measurements, not extensive R&D and costly time.
If most parts are shared, then development costs are cut down drastically. I suspect development is the major cost of today's turbos.
A compressor has few parts- two balanced blades on good bearings in a container. If it's mass produced, perhaps $200 (low boost). Plumbing $100-$200 depending on car. Intercooler, filter- $50-$100 each, and optional.
And honestly, I still think that sounds high. My can't somebody give me a turbo for under $500? Beyond that, no matter how high the gains, deep inside I just won't feel like I've gotten my money's worth.
I hope I don't come accross as being a lunatic (often). I think alloy wheels are way overpriced, too.