Re: Euro E28 M5 headers ????where to get (archive)

Once you have the euro headers, the easiest bolt up system is the corresponding Euro rear assembly, which will run you another $900-$1000. That set-up eliminates the cat though, so if you're in an area that requires emmissions testing you'll have to go with a custom fab cat. and rear exhaust. The Euro headers have longer collectors and won't bolt to the original cat and rear exhaust assem.

Matt
Maximillian Importing

Thanx for the response.

Where would i get euro headers I wonder? And what kind of exhaust system would match them? Would the existing Metric Mechanic exhaust still bolt up to them? Your comments are greatly appreciated

I'm wondering what is available in the way of replacement headers/downpipes for my E28M5? (the exhaust system is a Metric Mechanic free(r) flowing system)

Exhaust work on US model E28 M5s is basically stupid.

Arguably the most important performance-related component of an exhaust system is the manifold. US cars got the shitty dual 3-stub manifold. Euro motors have proper engineered-length headers (especially important on straight six motors!!) that help evacuate spent charge by creating timed pressure waves within the pipes.

The only differences between US and euro motors are these headers and the motors compression ratio.. yet you get a 30hp difference.

Problem is, euro headers are, iirc, $1200.

In any case, if you put euro headers on your motor, (and tune the rest of the exhaust to match) expect a nice improvement.

Otherwise, you can do whatever you want to the rest of the exhaust system but it will basically be a really expensive volume knob with one setting. If (like me) you started having people do exhaust stuff to the car without thinking it through, you'll go through a lot of money, and end up _robbing_ your M5's performance.

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