The perfect m52 Exhaust?

[327ire]

Iv just received a decent quote from Souhan.ie for a cat-back type exhaust fitting. As its a custom exhaust I could go for single 2.5" / twin 2", or other variations. I dont mind loosing some torque if it gets a better top end as this e30 is quickly becoming more of a track car than a road car. I have the usual mods done like BBTB, m50 intake. I still dont really want a loud exhaust tho. Whats the best spec for an m52 for top end hp?

[ross_jsy]

Twin 52mm is popular iirc

[327ire]

A single 2.5" is a cheaper option. Is it the case that it would destroy torque in a naturally aspirated engine?

How about a vortex exhaust? I HAS to be good if Ed China endorses it

[jmc330i]

A single 2.5" would be too small I'd have thought, I'd be using a 2x2". There's a 2x50mm (basically 2x2") E30 M3 exhaust that people use with good results iirc.

If cost is an issue, Jetex do universal parts in 2" that are pretty good value. I seem to remember the 2x2" system for my conversion cost about £180 in parts, plus some welding time - it was good enough for 290+bhp from my S50.

[reggid]

A single 2.5" will meet the needs of the M52

[nickso]

Why bother with Cat back? Bin the Cat surely?

Doesn't single pipe have issues getting round the beam/trailing arm without some grounding ?

[reggid]

Why bother with Cat back? Bin the Cat surely?

Doesn't single pipe have issues getting round the beam/trailing arm without some grounding ?

more issues than a dual 2" but far from impossible. its very commonly done. many run aftermarket cats and resonators etc and these are usually 4" OD this will be the lowest point

[rich318i]

use the M52 328i one. Cut the cats off Done it to my one..

sounds nice over 3.5k and quite as you like under that