Need opinion on exhaust for 2001 330i - Dilemma

[Ghetto2315]

Alright guys,

I am personally a Jeeper, but my brother owns the 2001 330i. Recently I just installed a Flowmaster 40-Series Muffler on my Jeep and it rumbles, to say the least.

I came to think about my brothers 330i and couldnt realize if a german car like a BMW should rumble or be quiet?

My brother wants an exhaust system... but maybe he's looking for a better tone in the exhaust as performance is not what he is after. So am I right to assume that he needs an aftermarket muffler? WHich kind?? Of course, nothing ricer!!

What am I looking for here?

Thanks guys in advance!!

[Furious]

german straight sixes actually have a distinct sound, and the right exhaust enhances it. there is a thread in the FAQ forum in regards to exhaust systems, yeah it may be for e36 models but the sound will be close because the 330 engine is somewhat closer to the e36 m3 than others

[Ghetto2315]

Originally posted by Furious@Sep 14 2004, 01:00 AM
german straight sixes actually have a distinct sound, and the right exhaust enhances it. there is a thread in the FAQ forum in regards to exhaust systems, yeah it may be for e36 models but the sound will be close because the 330 engine is somewhat closer to the e36 m3 than others

My brother does not want to replace the whole exhaust system... he would just like to replace the stock muffler with a better one to achieve a deeper / louder tone. The FAQ section is nice, but it all pertains to replacing the whole exhaust system and says nothing about mufflers to enhance tone.

I understand that replacing just the muffler will not yeild any performance gains, but that is not what he is after...

[drchuck]

Most 3 series exhaust systems are not true cat back systems. They are usually just mufflers. Having said that, the stock exhaust on an e46 330 is all one piece and so requires cutting and clamping to install. Some are more expensive than others. AC Schnitzer offers an aftermarket replacement. I was quoted $1800.00 CDN plus tax installed. Dinan's muffler is 1438.40CDN plus installation plus tax. So it would probably come out about the same. As you can see, these prices are comparable to entire catback exhausts that can be had for many ricers. however, we are talking about BMWs here.

One thing worth noting, is that the ACS exhaust if actually made by REMUS. A well known aftermarket exhaust manufacturer. It just has a special ACS tip on it. A REMUS exhaust/muffler can be had at Bavarian Autosport for around $600US.

These exhausts will provide a nice throaty exhaust note that is very pleasing if you are looking for a more authoratative note. These are not ricer exhausts so your car won't sound like a lawn mower at speeds. hope this helps.