Ahh, the S65 V8, perhaps the greatest sounding BMW engine of all time but how do you get the most out of it? What we will be discussing here is all of the different combinations of exhaust systems for the E9x and their different sound profiles. Here at Valvetronic Designs, we have learned a great deal about what each setup sounds like. We will talk about the different combinations of sound levels and hopefully, make it easier for you to choose your perfect sound.
Level 1: OEM + Sound
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
For those who just want a little more bark from their exhaust and not have to worry about emissions issues, we recommend starting with removing the heavy rear muffler section and replacing it with a free-flowing rear section. This will provide minimal power grans but clean quality sound. Keeping the original V8 deep tone an axle-back will be the most complete and simple way to let the S65 breath better and add a bit more excitement to your drive.
Sound clip:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B8rArOvpnpV/
Level 2: OEM + with more volume
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Secondary cat delete
If one gets to Level 1 and would like a bit more volume the next way to go is to remove the secondary catalytic converters out of the mid-pipe. These Catalytic converters DO NOT have o2 sensors so you will not have to worry about emissions issues or the car failing inspection. Doing a secondary cat delete in combination with your upgraded axle-back gives you roughly 15% more volume than Level 1.
Sound Clip:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4JFw1Np7Hg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
* Variation
-Resonator delete
If you are looking to make your M3 sound less deep and more high pitched you can remove the resonators either instead of the secondary cats or in addition to removing them. Removing the resonators gives you a more hard blare sound compared to a deep rumble when they are still installed. Do be warned, removing the resonators is known to cause drone. With the Valvetronic Designs rear section this is not a problem but if you are doing a resonator delete on a car without valves, from 1800 -2400 RPM you will experience some drone.
Sound Clip:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B2SdPKjJwch/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 3.1 Deep rumble :
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Test pipes (Primary catalytic converter delete)
Level 3 is often the sweet spot for those who want that ideal V8 rumble. With a quality axle-back and test pipes you get great on throttle sound and the ability to turn heads and enjoy tunnels to the fullest but it is not crazy for daily driving. This setup is not known for having lots of drone so valves are not a necessity but are highly encouraged as this setup is roughly twice as loud as factory.
Sound Clips:
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzt7ZnxI0AL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5dyIY-pWpn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 3.2 High Pitched:
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Valvetronic Designs CATTED X-pipe ( Or similar )
For those who wish for a more high pitched sound from their S65 modifying the X pipe layout before the rear section will drastically impact the pitch of your exhaust note. switching to a more free-flowing pipe layout helps the exhaust gases scavenge more naturally with more area compared to factory. This Ability for the exhaust to merge more gives that high pitch wail so many people love.
Sound Clip:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5Qvp9oJvzn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 4.1 Deep race rumble :
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Test pipes (Primary catalytic converter delete)
- Secondary catalytic converter delte
Level 4 gets extremely loud and this where valves save lives. Going completely free flow isn’t for everyone but it sounds absolutely mental when you are on it. At level 4 the cold starts are going to be very aggressive and in-cabin sound will be almost maxed out. driving normally this setup with valves open is very shouty on part throttle inputs. For those who want the most sound at a minimal cost, this level will be for you. test pipes and a secondary cat delete are relatively inexpensive but we strongly suggest combining this setup with valves as without them there is a lot of drone from 1800-2300 RPM
Sound Clip:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4n5FD_ptEk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 4.2 F1 race sound:
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Valvetronic Designs Free flow resonated X-pipe ( Or Similar)
For those who want their S65 to wail like an F1 car, having a free flow X-pipe with 2 resonators is the setup for you. This setup is extremely loud and valves are highly recommended. With running a new mid-pipe with no cats you are sure to gain some extra power and insane sound. Changing the design of the X Pipe is the most influential way to change the pitch of the sound. As compared to sound level 4.1. increasing the surface area the exhaust has to merge and pushing the X further forward you gain the most power and the most sound.
Sound Clips:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B68SRp5JIoa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6ZC8iXpCpF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 5.1 Straight pipe race rumble :
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- Test pipes (Primary catalytic converter delete)
- Secondary catalytic converter delte
- resonator delete
Level 5 is for those want max volume and maximum insanity. With the valves open the s65 sounds like a high revving American V8 muscle car. Hearing this setup in person is jaw-dropping as it is incredibly raspy and anything but tame. As with the levels before Valves are HIGHLY recommended as you won’t be making too many passers-by happy during normal driving. This setup with no restriction is terrifyingly loud and is promised to make you owe people new ears. For those who want max volume, this is the setup for you.
Sound Clips:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3nYdxrpC2z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Level 5.2 Straight pipe F1 race high pitched :
Modifications
- Valvetronic Designs rear section
- free flow + Unresonated Midpipe
If your goal is maximum sound and adding that F1 wail to your S65 you will need a free flow mid-pipe with the X pipe closer to the transmission tunnel. The Bimmerworld X pipe is the ideal mid-pipe for this setup. The mid-pipe will also need to be unresonated as well. At idle this setup sounds like a 427 C6 Z06. The pitch is gnarly and this setup has an unparalleled presence. Max volume and max pitch level combine together reminding people why naturally aspirated is the way of the gods.
Sound Clips:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7MmmlcJAof/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B507t02pl12/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link