E46 Tuning | Drifted.com https://www.drifted.com The Ultimate Online Drifting Experience Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:07:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Exhaust Guide https://www.drifted.com/e46-m3-exhaust/ Wed, 21 Nov 2018 12:07:05 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=42684 We list and review the most popular BMW E46 M3 exhaust systems on the market. This is the ultimate guide to selecting your new M3 exhaust.

The post Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Exhaust Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> We list and review the most popular BMW E46 M3 exhaust systems on the market. This is the ultimate guide to selecting your new M3 exhaust.

e46 m3 exhaust

In a hurry? Here is our E46 M3 Exhaust summary

Budget Choice Drifted Choice Premium Choice
megan e46 m3 exhaust supersprint e46 m3 exhaust kreissieg e46 m3 exhaust
Megan Racing BMW E46 M3 exhaust Supersprint Race BMW E46 M3 exhaust Kreissieg BMW E46 M3 exhaust
πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯ πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯ πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
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The BMW E46 M3 is certainly no slouch from of the factory. In fact, not only is it quick, but it’s also one of the best looking BMW’s of all time.

That being said, and you may disagree, but we think that the stock exhaust tips could be far more exciting.

Some owners love the sound of the stock M3 exhaust as it’s notorious ‘rasp’ screams the car to the redline and feel that it should be left exactly as it left the factory.

We respect that.

However, other owners feel that that’s just a small taste of the potential that the S54 engine has to offer, and they want to unleash the true sound potential.

This is where simple bolt-on modifications can completely transform the sound of your E46 M3. Sure, they sound great from the factory, but what if you could make it sound more like an exotic Ferrari, or dare we even say close to what F1 cars SHOULD still sound like?

Ever wondered the difference between the M3 and M4? You can read our M3 Vs M4 guide.

When doing our research, we were reminded of just how spoiled M3 owners are for choice when it comes to these cars. There are several incredible options on our list and we’ve broken down our preferences from price, to sound, to quality.

Looking for a high-end titanium exhaust to set off car alarms down your street? We’ve got you covered. Looking for a quiet daily driver to keep the wife from complaining, yet it’s still capable of screaming its way through the canyons on the weekend?

Sure, we’ve got you covered too!

We’ve given you all the information you’re going to need, along with images, prices, and videos. Make sure you realize that several modifications can be made to an exhaust from the header to the muffler, so don’t expect every video to be completely stock with just an exhaust added.

E46 M3 exhaust selection

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at our E46 M3 exhaust selection!

Agency Power Titanium E46 M3 exhaust

agency power e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 60mm (2.4″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 70mm (2.75″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Titanium
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Agency Power
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: One of the most popular E46 offerings kicks off our list in style. Featuring incredible build quality, welds and fitment, this stunning titanium exhaust is understandably a common choice.

    This provides a very loud, aggressive sound. It’s deep in the low end and screams at high revs. There is some drone when cruising, but it’s not unbearable. If you like your M3 to be the center of attention, this is definitely an ideal choice.

  • Manufacturer description: “Titanium exhausts are extremely lightweight because of material used. Quality is upheld at undescribable levels because of the process it takes to weld titanium parts. Not only is the weight and strength a key component to the Titanium Exhausts we offer, but the sound is amazing!“

    “Titanium resonates at a higher pitch than stainless steel. This gives the exhaust a crisper more race like tone. All of the A attributes of the Titanium Exhaust by Agency Power certainly make the purchase and use the most enjoyable exhaust you will ever own!“

  • Purchase link: Agency Power BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Agency Power BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Eisenmann E46 M3 exhaust

eisenmann e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: Unknown
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 76mm (3″) (or 83mm) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Eisenmann
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Eisenmann is another hugely popular choice and regarded by some owners as the best and most refined sound there is for the M3.

    At your typical cruising around town speeds, it’s not overly loud, but as soon as you put your foot down it roars to life and the typical E46 rasp is enhanced past 4,000rpm.

    If you’re after an exhaust note which sounds good throughout the range without being too ‘boomy’ and screams at the top end, this is a great choice. If you’re after bigger tips, check out the 83mm tip option.

  • Manufacturer description: “Eisenmann’s engineers are responsible for designing the OEM systems seen on Porsche and AMG cars, and use this experience to design the best performance exhaust systems in the world. Eisenmann’s performance exhausts are built by hand from start to finish to create an old world craftsmanship simply not available with other exhaust manufacturers.“
  • Purchase link: Eisenmann BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Eisenmann BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

GruppeM BMW E46 M3 exhaust

gruppe m e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 60mm (2.4″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 70mm (2.75″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Titanium
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: GruppeM
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Once again, the GruppeM is arguably one of the most favored exhausts. This delivers an exotic exhaust note and is about as close as you’ll get to an F1 car in the top end.

    Be warned though, it is extremely loud and aggressive and definitely isn’t to everyone’s taste! With minimal sound deadening, it’s very close to being straight pipes but with a much more refined sound.

    If you’re looking for a more exotic sound from your M3 and don’t mind yelling to your passengers, this is well worth considering. However, with its lightweight properties and noise levels, it is probably more suited to the track than the city.

  • Manufacturer description: “Our exhaust systems are developed utilizing expertise gained from many years of air induction development. As a result of stringent testing, we have engineered our systems with the correct pipe diameter and layout to extract maximum horsepower from your engine.“
  • Purchase link: GruppeM BMW E46 M3 exhaust

GruppeM BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Supersprint Race BMW E46 M3 exhaust

supersprint e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 63.5mm (2.5″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 80mm (3.15″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Supersprint
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Supersprint bring three options to the market, Street, Sport, and Race. We’ve opted to review the most popular full-retard Race system here.

    This is probably THE most popular exhaust out there and it sounds absolutely incredible. With a throaty, aggressive sound, it’s note will roar all the way to the redline.

    Any of the Supersprint exhausts will serve you well. Supersprint has an extremely good reputation and the video will undoubtedly speak for itself!

  • Manufacturer description: “All Supersprint mufflers are of the flow through resonated design. This means each unit has no chambers or baffles to reduce velocity. Simply, a straight through in & out design. The internal components are 100% stainless steel with a high heat resistant rock wool sound suppressing material, not found in any other systems.“
  • Purchase link: Supersprint Race BMW E46 M3 exhaust

Supersprint BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Billy Boat (B&B) BMW E46 M3 exhaust

billy boat e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: Unknown
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 76mm (3″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Billy Boat (B&B)
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: This is a reasonably priced, very low and rumbly system with a fairly loud muffler. Great quality and an excellent all-rounder, assuming you can get past the strange name! If you’re after a deep idle which screams in the upper range, it’s well worth taking a look at.
  • Manufacturer description: “Featuring mandrel bent, T-304 stainless steel and precision hand-craftsmanship, the system for the M3 provides custom-tuned performance with a harmonious, subdued exhaust note and no interior resonance. The proprietary design of each Billy Boat Performance Exhaust provides increases in horsepower and torque throughout the entire RPM band.“
  • Purchase link: Billy Boat B&B BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Billy Boat B&B BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Kreissieg BMW E46 M3 exhaust

kreissieg e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 70mm (2.75″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 80mm (3.15″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Kreissieg
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: It comes in at the highest price on our list despite being a stainless steel exhaust, but many owners will tell you that it’s worth every penny! Often regarded as the unicorn of E46 M3 exhausts, this is perfect for those of you with big pockets that also hit the track.

    This is the only exhaust to feature internal valves which allow you to change the volume, essentially a straight through when wide open. You can also choose the volume you’d like to have in both the opened and closed positions. This is the most exotic sounding exhaust and it really is an incredible F1-style sound at full throttle.

  • Manufacturer description: “With many decades of experience with exotic cars, Kreissiegs engineers have put down significant time and efforts to produce fantastic exhaust systems. Their exhaust systems have very complicated construction to accomplish the best in exhaust sound and quality.“
  • Purchase link: Kreissieg BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Kreissieg BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Meisterschaft Titanium BMW E46 M3 exhaust

meisterschaft e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: Unknown
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 83mm (3.2″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Titanium
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Meisterschaft
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: These are one of the rarer options on the market, but those who are lucky enough to have one are delighted. It features an amazing, aggressive tone. Be warned that some have issues with the mounting bracket, and given the difficulty of welding titanium, we recommend ensuring it is a perfect fit.

    If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, their stainless steel alternative is much more affordable with a higher exhaust note.

  • Manufacturer description: “Meisterschaft set out with one simple idea: to create exhaust products superior to all others, the pinnacle of performance and quality, and this is the result. Meisterschaft exhaust products boast a background of over ten years in development.“
  • Purchase link: Meisterschaft BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Meisterschaft BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Remus BMW E46 M3 exhaust

remus e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: Unknown
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 84mm (3.2″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Remus
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Remus bring a far calmer, clean option to the market which is the perfect option for those that are looking for a quieter exhaust for their daily driver. It’s a nice, clean sound which isn’t too raspy, with a good throaty growl under acceleration which wakes up in the higher RPM’s.
  • Manufacturer description: “Ranked number one in the world, Austrian manufacturer REMUS is ahead of the game with their top of the line exhaust systems. At REMUS, an exhaust is not simply built and put on the market. Each setup is rigorously tested not just for optimum performance, but for the highest quality sound attainable. If they are not perfect, the system is re-engineered and tested until the perfect balance between performance and sound is achieved.“
  • Purchase link: Not available

Remus BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Megan Racing BMW E46 M3 exhaust

megan e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 63.5mm (2.5″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 76mm (3″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Megan Racing
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Megan Racing often receive mixed opinions from owners, but it looks like they’ve hit the nail on the head at an incredible price with the M3 variant. This has a small amount of drone and may have some slight sag, which is easily rectified. However, it provides a nice, deep, clean tone, is very light and also great quality for the price. If you’re on a tight budget and looking for an aftermarket exhaust to get an increase in exhaust flows, this is the one for you.
  • Manufacturer description: “Designed as a direct bolt-on to replace the stock unit, this axle-back system works in conjunction with the OEM Mid-Pipe and is easy to install using clamps instead of heavy flanges to reduce weight in the exhaust system and ensure proper alignment and positioning of the exhaust.“
  • Purchase link: Megan Racing BMW E46 M3 exhaust

Megan Racing BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Milltek BMW E46 M3 exhaust

milltek e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 60mm (2.37″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 80mm (3.15″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless Steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Milltek
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Milltek seem to have been hit with a love/hate reaction over their M3 exhaust. Some say it’s very ‘boomy’ and the drone is unbearable with fitment issues. Others say that they love it, and that it’s deep and aggressive in the lower rev range but similar to stock in the high. We recommend doing your own research before buying, there are many happy owners, but we couldn’t ignore the bad comments when trying to provide an honest review.
  • Manufacturer description: “Over 20 years of continuous exhaust development and technical expertise are drawn upon to develop the ultimate Milltek Sport range of performance products. Milltek Sport offers an ever-expanding comprehensive selection of Performance exhausts which build on the successes of key marques like Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, Mini and BMW. This has placed Milltek Sport at the forefront of tuning companies and owners must have list.“
  • Purchase link: Milltek BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Milltek BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Borla BMW E46 M3 exhaust

borla e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 44.5-63.5mm (1.75-2.5″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 80mm (3.15″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless Steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Borla
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: Borla bring the gentleman’s choice to the game. Owners that are looking for a quiet exhaust are extremely happy with this. It’s the most civilized option on our list, with next to no drone and very little rasp. If you’re looking for good looks without wanting to wake the neighborhood, this is a strong contender.
  • Manufacturer description: “The BORLA sound of power. Its been described as a sonic shot of adrenaline. An intoxicating concert of steel, gears and combustion that echoes from the speedways, deserts and highways of the world.“
  • Purchase link: Not available

Borla BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Dinan BMW E46 M3 exhaust

dinan e46 m3 exhaust

  • Internal pipe diameter: 63.5mm (2.5″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: Quad 76mm (3″) tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless Steel
  • Fitment: BMW E46 M3
  • Manufacturer: Dinan
  • Value for money: πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
  • Our comment: The last, and most controversial exhaust has arrived! Dinan have taken a unique approach with this exhaust to allow for maximum flow. However, it has come at the expense of having to provide dummy tips for two of the exhausts. Despite the fact this will undoubtedly look a bit strange on a cold day, many owners believe that it’s actually the best sounding exhaust on the market.

    It’s not far off a stock sound, just slightly deeper and louder but sounds stunning as it screams it’s way through the upper revs. If you can tolerate the dummy exhausts, it’s well worth taking a look at.

  • Manufacturer description: “If you’ve been searching for a truly high performance rear muffler for your M3 look no further. Dinan’s unique muffler design effectively reduces back-pressure for improved flow, resulting in measurable power gains.“
  • Purchase link: Dinan BMW E46 M3 exhaust here

Dinan BMW E46 M3 exhaust video

Own a BMW E46 M3 and wanting even more power than a bolt-on exhaust can offer? Check out the supercharging possibilities of these incredible engines in our BMW E46 M3 supercharger kit guide.

Which BMW E46 M3 exhaust is our winner?

It was a close call between the Eisenmann and the Supersprint Race, but the Supersprint is definitely the most popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. An incredible all-rounder at a mid-range price point which sounds absolutely insane.

We have no doubt some owners will disagree, but we can honestly say that the M3 exhaust guide had some of the best options we’ve seen to date in our exhaust guides. There are so many awesome choices that you really can’t go wrong with!

supersprint e46 m3 exhaust

If you’re looking for a bargain, the Megan exhaust blew us away for the price, and we definitely wouldn’t hesitate to choose that if we were on a budget and wanting to get as much out of the car as possible.

For those of you considering adding a supercharger, you will want to go with one of the louder, more free-flowing options to maximize your power gains and the Supersprint Race will be perfect for the job.

If you’re looking for a quiet setup, the Borla looks and sounds fantastic, yet it won’t annoy your girlfriend or set off car alarms when you try to go for a relaxing drive.

Thank you for reading our BMW E46 M3 exhaust guide

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Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for use of their photography:

The post Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Exhaust Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Guide https://www.drifted.com/e46-m3-supercharger/ Tue, 13 Nov 2018 11:47:44 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=42478 Looking to maximize the potential of your S54 engine? We review the best kits on the market in this ultimate BMW E46 M3 supercharger guide.

The post Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Looking to maximize the potential of your S54 engine? We review the best kits on the market in this ultimate BMW E46 M3 supercharger guide.

e46 m3 supercharger

In a hurry? Here is our E46 M3 Supercharger summary

Runner-up Drifted Choice Premium Choice
vf engineering e46 m3 supercharger ess e46 m3 supercharger ttfs e46 m3 supercharger
VF Engineering BMW E46 M3 Supercharger ESS Tuning BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Tuning Tech FS (TTFS) E46 M3 Supercharger
πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯ πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯ πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯πŸ”₯
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In the spring of 1985, something huge was being kept under wraps in BMW’s M Division. What soon followed was one of the greatest ever drivers’ cars – the notorious E30 M3.

With the E30 M3 sales more impressive than BMW could have ever imagined for a highly-tuned sports car, they then released the E36 M3 to the market.

There’s no doubt that Europeans were pleased with their new 300hp modern-day masterpiece, even if it did lack the soul of its older brother. However, the same couldn’t be said for the US, as owners couldn’t help but feel a little shafted with their 240hp offering.

Looking for a sweet exhaust to compliment your supercharger? Our E46 M3 exhaust guide was written for you.

BMW clearly listened to the disappointment from their neighbors across the pond and righted their mistakes. When the E46 M3 was launched, both markets were given an equally incredible offering – a 343hp 3.2-liter six-pot engine which joyfully screamed its way to 7,900rpm.

If this incredible engine wrapped in a stunning body wasn’t enough, those with deeper pockets could opt for the race-orientated M3 CSL. With a 110kg of weight saving and the S54 tuned to 360hp, this daily-friendly stunner would throw you from 0-100kph in just 4.8 seconds.

With E30 prices through the roof, the E46 could well be heading the same way. The E30 has undoubtedly deserved its place in the history books, but the E46 was able to take the M Division to new heights and could well become a future classic.

The E46 M3 has stood the test of time, and is to this day one of the highest regarded cars available in its price range We’re going to show you how to turn your S54 into the ultimate beast whether you’re hitting the street, or the track!

Forced induction

There’s always a strong debate amongst owners as to which FI option is the better choice.

If you’re searching for huge power figures or intending to do straight line racing, a turbocharger may well suit your needs.

However, if you’re planning to have a usable power-band where you can plant your foot in the twisties without the fear of doing an unexpected 180, then a supercharger is most likely the choice for you.

Superchargers provide a far more consistent power delivery with zero lag, providing a satisfyingly broad and predictable torque curve. If you’re looking to stick with the power curve that BMW initially intended, but with a strong dose of steroids added, especially at the top end, the supercharger is the choice for you.

Please note that we highly recommend further research for any various additional modifications which are required to run these supercharger kits.

Let’s take a look at our E46 M3 supercharger kits

To read more about any of these products simply click on the supercharger name or photo.

VF Engineering BMW E46 M3 Supercharger

vf engineering e46 m3 supercharger

Our comment: VF Engineering are undoubtedly offering some of the best and most popular supercharger kit options on the market for BMW E46 M3 owners. Whether you’re looking for a basic daily-driven street upgrade, or looking for 240hp off-the-shelf gains, they have the perfect package for your needs.

Their base-model kit offers an impressive 90hp gain over the stock power at 4-4.5 PSI of boost. This is the perfect solution if you’re looking for a far more responsive S54 with more top-end power without any reliability issues.

However, if you’re looking to really maximize the potential on offer, you’ll want to take a look at their Stage 2 and Stage 3 kits.

Many delighted owners have run even their highest performing kits for many years with huge mileage and but nothing but praise.

Manufacturer description: “VF-Engineering chose to supercharge the BMW E46 M3 to add to already superior throttle response and give wild mid-to-top end power (sport mode) with the centrifugal Vortech supercharger. Maintaining the original BMW quality, smoothness and reliability were the key factors in the VF design. VF have harnessed reliability of Vortech superchargers with their 10 years of supercharging experience and worldwide OEM supply contacts to create the ultimate supercharger system for the ultimate driver’s car.“

“The VF Engineering Street Sport kit for the 01-06 BMW E46 M3 is a non-intercooled, low boost setup that is suitable for enthusiasts looking to add a little extra passing power to their daily driver. Featuring a cast aluminum intake manifold and everything you need for a perfect installation, this kit runs at approximately 4.0 to 4.5 psi of boost pressure and develops an average of about 90hp on top of the factory advertised 333hp.“

Features (VF420 model):

  • Custom tuned software
  • Vortech V3 SQ trim black supercharger
  • CNC machined 6061 aluminum bracket system
  • OEM BMW idler pullies
  • Stage 1 OEM High flow spray pattern matched fuel injectors
  • Custom molded polypropylene ducting
  • High flow overrun bypass valve system
  • Custom crank case ventilation system
  • 4-ply silicon couplers with OEM screw clamps
  • CNC oil fittings with high pressure OEM oil lines
  • Replacement OEM serpentine belt
  • K&N induction filter with cold air intake
  • Comprehensive installation CD-ROM
  • Precision Made in California, USA

ESS Tuning BMW E46 M3 Supercharger

ess e46 m3 supercharger

Our comment: Next up is ESS Tuning, undoubtedly VF Engineering’s strongest contender and another market-leading option. Once again, owners have been absolutely ecstatic with these kits after thousands of miles of reliable use.

Their base-model kit is actually cheaper than VF’s, and also features an impressive 132hp gain over stock at 6.5 PSI of boost.

If you’re after a kit with even more power, ESS are capable of squeezing over 775hp out of the S54! Check out their 525, 550 and 575 kits.

Manufacturer description: “The non-intercooled S54 VT1-475 supercharger system produces 470hp SAE (475DIN) and 330lb-ft of torque at 6.5psi of boost. A 132hp gain over stock, eclipsing the output of a Mustang BOSS 302. Featuring the highly efficient and very reliable, self contained Vortech V3 supercharger unit in Si trim, the supercharger is capable of producing up to 775hp.“

“The VT1-475 comes with a specially developed cast aluminum intake manifold assembly with an integrated high capacity bypass valve designed not only for optimum flow, but for minimal weight to not disrupt the iconic chassis balance of the M3. The VT1-455 is a complete system with everything you need and is easily upgradeable as all the major hardware components are the same all the way up to our VT3-700.“

Features (VT1-475 model):

  • Vortech V3 Si-trim internally lubricated supercharger unit
  • Cast aluminum ESS intake manifold
  • High capacity bypass-valve system
  • Powder-coated mandrel bent tubing
  • One belt driven w/self tension system. -Gen 3 improved, stronger CNC machined, hard anodized brackets
  • Improved 3 idler pulley belt loop design with greatly improved belt traction under extreme conditions
  • CNC hard anodized pulleys
  • Long life serpentine drive belt
  • High capacity, direct replacement Bosch fuel injectors
  • K&N cold air intake located inside front bumper
  • ESS E-Flash reprogramming and diagnostic interface
  • 2yr./unlimted mileage warranty
  • The VT1-475 requires the use of 91AKI/95RON and above fuel quality

Tuning Tech FS (TTFS)/Active Autowerke BMW E46 M3 Supercharger

ttfs e46 m3 supercharger

Our comment: TTFS have collaborated with another great tuning house, Active Autowerke to bring you one of the most sought after and affordable kits on the market.

It may be a little more expensive than the previous two offerings, but this one option is capable of exceeding over 500whp.

TTFS are known for their upgrade options and we have no doubt they’ll be happy to assist if you are planning for more power further down the line. Alternatively, you can jump right in with their Prime Elite choice.

TTFS work alongside both Active Autowerke and VF Engineering to ensure a huge range of variety and customization options.

Manufacturer description: “In collaboration with Active Autowerke we used their hardware and R&D it to create the generation 2 Prima Plus supercharger kit that has gained a reputation as one of the finest and most affordable systems available for the E46 BMW M3. This kit is capable of exceeding 500whp.“

“The prima plus kit is a full bolt-on non-intercooled system that is completely reversible and does not require custom fabrication. For those who desire some extra horsepower we offer custom application.“

Features (Prima Kit Plus):

  • Rotrex C38-92 Supercharger System
  • AA GEN 7 Intake Manifold
  • AA DOUBLE Blow-off Valve Set-up
  • Performance Green Filter & Filter Cover
  • High Capacity Fuel Injectors
  • Rotrex oil cooling system for maximum performance and reliability
  • All Hoses, Clamps, Etc. (pre-assembled)
  • Boost: 5.5-6 psi

RMS (Racemarque) BMW E46 M3 Supercharger

rms e46 m3 supercharger

Our comment: RMS bring several offerings to the market, with owners having achieved over 600hp from some of their higher tuned setups.

Unfortunately, RMS have earned themselves a rather disappointing reputation in the E46 M3 tuning world. For that reason, we would recommend checking out the alternative offerings in our guide unless RMS are able to specifically cater for your needs. Whilst their reputation isn’t great, there’s no doubt that there are many satisfied owners out there.

If you’re looking for something a little more than their base-level kit, you can check out their Stage 2 and Stage 3 offerings.

Manufacturer description: “The many facets of the Stage 1 BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Kit are the result of years of research, testing and development. That’s what it takes to produce the fastest and most reliable BMW Supercharged Automobiles. Your BMW deserves the best and RMS has the goods.”

“RMS uses the Vortech V2 Sci trim supercharger on the E46 M3. This model blower is considered the new generation among superchargers. Highly advanced CAD modeled gears feature an optimized helical profile which allows for near-silent operation while providing superior performance.”

“Rotrex superchargers are renowned for their compact size, high adiabatic efficiency, low vibration, and quiet operation. Their unique traction drive technology is what makes all of this possible, which, unlike other superchargers, transmits power through frictional forces between its rolling elements. Each Rotrex unit features its own self-contained oiling system that remains independent of the engine. Its dual-action oil pump supplies traction fluid to the supercharger while the supplied cooler ensures proper fluid temperatures at all times.”

Our winner

Our winner is the ESS Tuning VT1-475 supercharger kit

To pick our winner from this choice of E46 M3 supercharger kits, we looked at a number of criteria; popularity, upgrade potential, customer service and also long-term reliability.

Based on these criteria we have chosen the ESS Tuning supercharger kit to be our winner.

ESS Tuning Supercharger kit

ess 1 e46 m3 supercharger

This was an extremely tough one to call, and it very much turns into a ‘Coke vs Pepsi’ argument with the two giants, ESS and VF.

We strongly recommend doing your own research to conclude which kit best suits your needs, as they are both undoubtedly fantastic and will suit your needs perfectly for many years to come.

Our main reasoning for opting for the ESS kit over VF is the price point and because we have heard great things about their customer service, which we feel is extremely important when buying such a niche product. Both are exceptional items which will undoubtedly serve you well!

Thank you for reading our E46 M3 supercharger guide

Your going to need to upgrade your suspension to handle all this extra power, our e46 coilover guide is written just for you.

Ever wondered the difference between the M3 and M4? You can read our M3 Vs M4 guide.

If you enjoyed this article then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Photography credits

The post Ultimate BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Ultimate BMW E46 Coilover Guide https://www.drifted.com/e46-coilovers/ Mon, 05 Mar 2018 17:32:47 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=40395 We review ten of the best BMW E46 coilovers available on the market today, to help you decide which is the perfect suspension upgrade for your car.

The post Ultimate BMW E46 Coilover Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> We review ten of the best BMW E46 coilovers available on the market today, to help you decide which is the perfect suspension upgrade for your car.

e46 m3 coilovers

In a hurry? Here is our E46 coilover summary

Budget Choice Drifted Choice Runner Up
bcracing br e46 coilovers kw variant 3 e46 coilovers ohlins road & track e46 coilovers
BC Racing BR Series KW Variant 3 Coilovers Ohlins Road & Track Coilovers
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Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now

The E46 is the fourth generation of German manufacturer BMW’s immensely popular 3-series range and the first cars began rolling out of the showroom in 1998.

It was immediately considered by many as the benchmark in its class with near-perfect weight distribution which allowed for fantastic handling.

Fast forward to today and you’re left with an epic chassis which has stood the test of time and now reached a more affordable price-point than ever.

Need to get your M3’s sound on point? Our E46 M3 exhaust guide was written for you.

With E46’s being available across the world, the tuning market naturally flocked to the chassis as suspension experts set out to refine something great into something that is near-perfect.

Whether you’re looking to slam the car on its rails, create a track beast, throw the car sideways or just replace the tired original suspension, we’ve chosen some of the best kits on the market to help you decide which coilover kit is for you.

How to install BMW E46 coilover suspension

Speed Academy have just posted this comprehensive E46 coilover installation guide on their blog. Once you have picked up your ideal set of coilovers from the list below, I would encourage you to check out their guide. You may well be able to save yourself some cash on the fitting costs.

Let’s take a look at our BMW E46 coilover selection

To read more about any of these products simply click on the coilover name or photo.

H&R Street Performance Coilovers

h&r e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: H&R
  • Levels of damping adjustment: None
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: Progressive
  • Spring rate rear: Progressive
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy your H&R Street Performance coilover kit here

Our comment: H&R are one of the more well-known brands in the suspension world and their Street Performance offering for the E46 is for those who are looking for a street coilover to improve handling without a crashy ride.

Featuring front height adjustment from 0.5″-2.75″ and rear adjustment of 0.5-2.0″, these will provide both great handling and comfort however they won’t allow dampening adjustment.

The H&R may well tick the boxes for many owners who want to lower their ride for street use, but we feel there’s better options within the price range on our list.

Manufacturer description: “H&R coil overs are engineered for street use. Unlike traditional twin-tube shock absorbers, H&R Coil Overs feature a state-of-the-art mono-tube gas shock construction. Combined with the knowledge and skill of H&R’s suspension engineers, the use of this state-of-the-art technology results in the best suspension product that you can buy for your vehicle.“

“H&R is the originator of the true coil over system for the street and continues to lead the market with an extensive line of applications. Each shock is tuned with a progressive rate spring that is engineered from its inception to work with the shock’s valving, creating a finely tuned suspension system. H&R Coil Overs are the suspension answer for everybody, from daily drivers to the serious tuner.“

KW Variant 3 Coilovers

kw variant 3 e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: KW
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 14
  • Construction type: Twin-tube
  • Spring rate front: Progressive
  • Spring rate rear: Progressive
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy your KW V3 coilover kit at Enjuku Racing

Our comment: Despite being one of the most expensive option on our list, they say that quality comes at a price and this 3-way KW coilover kit certainly lives up to that.

Quite possibly the best quality kit out there with stainless steel construction which won’t rust, this could well be the best day-to-day option which can also perform insanely well at the track.

This kit is softer than the Clubsport offering from KW, which may suit you better on a daily basis however some owners have found it slightly soft on track. If this is the case, KW’s Clubsport offering below may well be the perfect answer for your needs.

Manufacturer description: “State-of-the-art technology from motor sports for more performance on the road. The separate and independently adjustable rebound- and compression damping allows for an individual suspension setup for different uses and preferences.“

“The unique patented system with its two-stage valves allows a rebound damping adjustment (comfort) and a compression adjustment (driving dynamics) in the low-speed range while the high-speed range which controls the driving safety, is fixed.“

KW Clubsport Coilovers

kw clubsport coilovers

  • Manufacturer: KW
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 12 (Rebound 16)
  • Construction type: Twin-tube
  • Spring rate front: Progressive
  • Spring rate rear: Progressive
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy your KW Clubsport coilover kit here

Our comment: If you’re going all out with your E46 build and you’ll be spending more time on the track than the road, this is undobutedly worth considering.

Designed in Germany and set up on the Nordschleife using track-day tyres, these will undoubtedly help you achieve the most from your suspension setup and shave off valuable seconds on your lap times.

Manufacturer description: “The KW Clubsport coilovers provide the ability to adjust for different track surfaces, sharp turns and abrupt elevation changes. The KW Clubsport is in its home environment on the famous twists and turns of the 20.8 km long NΓΌrburgring Nordschleife circuit.“

“The adjustable top mounts coupled with the independently adjustable rebound and compression dampening technology individual set up adjustments according to vehicle load, tire characteristics and different track conditions. Clubsports meets all needs for the road and the race track guaranteeing excellent handling, best performance, great agility and fantastic lap times.“

Megan Racing Euro Street Coilovers

megan racing e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: Megan Racing
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 32
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 7kg/mm
  • Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy the Megan Racing coilover kit here

Our comment: Megan Racing have been well known in the Japanese tuning scene for quite some time and they’ve decided to try their hand at the German tuning market with this budget offering.

Made in Taiwan, there are strong rumours that these are made by the same people that make some of the well-known JDM coilovers at an improved price.

Designed for the street but with beginner-level track driving also in mind, these may well be an ideal budget offering for those who are looking for their first coilover kit.

Got an M3? You can buy the M3 version here.

Manufacturer description: “The Euro Street Series is Megan’s new Luxury Package based off of their Street-Series coil-over line-up using similar specifications and design, but offering a more conservative spring and damper setup for a more comfortable ride, yet still providing a sporty feel and control.“

“Megan Racing Coil-Over Dampers are the ultimate upgrade to your track or street car. Featuring 32 levels of damper force adjustment, separate spring perch height and shock length adjustment allowing you to retain full suspension stroke and to fine tune your suspension characteristics.“

BC Racing ER Series Coilovers

bcracing er e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: BC Racing
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 30
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
  • Spring rate rear: 12kg/mm
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy BC Racing ER at Enjuku Racing

Our comment: ‘ER’ stands for external reservoir, and that’s what BC Racing brings you in their track-orientated flagship coilover setup.

Featuring separate compression and rebound adjustment, the ER series is highly regarded by those who are looking for a highly adjustable track-orientated setup with a mid-range budget.

With great quality for the price, these are undoubtedly one of the best value-for-money track orientated coilover setups available.

Manufacturer description: “BC Racing’s premium coilovers are the external reservoir ER Series with separate compression and rebound damping adjustment.“

“The ER Series coilovers bring with them the high quality and unique features seen on the BR and RM type but have the additional benefit of external reservoirs and the ability to allow the end user to individually adjust and set compression and rebound damping rates.“

BC Racing BR Series Coilovers

bcracing br e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: BC Racing
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 30
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
  • Spring rate rear: 10kg/mm
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy BC Racing BR here

Our comment: BC Racing offer a great option for those of you on a budget. If you’re planning to spend less than $1k on a road set-up with occasional track, this all-round kit could well be the perfect choice for you.

Featuring great build quality for the price bracket, these offer a firm but not crashy ride which is still ideal for street use with great adjustability.

BC also offer their higher-end ‘ER’ series coilovers (above) which are their competitor for the KW V3’s if you’re intending to do mostly track use.

We’ve given these a 5 star Drifted rating over the ‘ER’ series as we feel that they are incredible value for money for a tried-and-tested budget setup.

Manufacturer description: “The BR Series Coilovers from BC Racing are the ultimate in street and track performance suspension. Their easily adjustable ride height, compression and rebound allow you to maximize the performance of your vehicle in just about any driving situation. “

“And if you want, the BR Series Coilovers can give you a pretty lengthy drop if you’re going for the hellaflush or low-rider look, but they can also give you a more functional ride height if you want to rip around on the track.“

ISC Suspension N1 Coilovers

isc e46 coilovers

Our comment: ISC have been increasing in popularity within the budget market for some time and their N1 series is another great all-rounder. Despite being geared towards street, track and drift cars, we feel that you may want something a little more serious for intense track use.

With a great amount of adjustment available for the money, we would put these within the same bracket as the BC BR coilovers above. BR’s are the more frequent choice, so if you’re looking for the more tried and tested method within the price range, they may well be worth considering.

Manufacturer description: “The ISC N1 Coilover system is the optimum suspension tool for improved handling for your street, track, or drift car.“

“This product is perfect for someone looking for performance, adjustability, and other high quality features in a package that will not break the bank. ISC coilovers are also 100% rebuildable!“

Ohlins Road & Track Coilovers

ohlins road & track e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: Ohlins
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 20
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 343lbs/in
  • Spring rate rear: 400lbs/in
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy Ohlins Road & Track here

Our comment: The price tag may look a little intimidating, but our first choice is aimed at those serious drivers who also like to push their daily driver to its limits on the track.

Ohlins are one of the biggest suspension companies in the world and this is an incredible offering for FR-S owners. This setup quite possibly offers the best combination of road comfort and handling while also providing a serious set-up for cutting those valuable seconds off your lap time at the track.

On the road they’ll feel firmer than stock but with their Dual Flow Valve technology it’ll absorb the bumps well to ensure a smooth ride.

Manufacturer description: “This is the latest step in the Γ–hlins Racing automotive philosophy – Road & Track by Γ–hlins. A more than 30 year long tradition of high-end racing commitments and state-of-the-art solutions within advanced suspension technology is now available for street cars all over the world.“

“The focus has been clear from the very beginning – superior road handling without sacrifi cing comfort in your day-to-day transports. The time of compromises are over! We have also added a clever light-weight design with a majority of the parts in aluminium and on top of that all shocks have suffered through vast corrosion tests according to ISO 9227. The end result is a 2-year limited warranty on all of our products – worldwide.“

Fortune Auto 500 Coilovers

fortune auto 500 E46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: Fortune Auto 500
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 24
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
  • Spring rate rear: 10kg/mm
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy Fortune Auto 500 Coilovers from Enjuku Racing

Our comment: Fortune Auto have these attention-grabbing coilovers on offer with fantastic quality and a mid-range price point. These are soft and smooth for daily driving and also a capable coilover for occasional track use.

With the ability to upgrade to 2-way remote canisters or swift springs, this could be a great option if you want a daily driving coilover now with something more track-orientated later on without having to purchase brand new.

Manufacturer description: “Fortune Auto engineers were tasked with a focused goal to make the Generation 5 500 Series dampers the best single adjustable system on the market at a very affordable price point.“

“All systems are completely built in-house by our engineering staff in Richmond, Virginia. We insist on building bespoke suspension in order to offer the best quality control in the industry.“

Stance XR1 Coilovers

stance xr1 e46 coilovers

  • Manufacturer: Stance
  • Levels of damping adjustment: 15
  • Construction type: Monotube
  • Spring rate front: 9kg/mm
  • Spring rate rear: 10kg/mm
  • Fitment: BMW E46
  • Value for money:rating
  • Purchase link: Buy Stance XR1 Coilovers from Enjuku Racing

Our comment: Stance XR1 is the latest revision of the well-known Stance Super Sport line with many improvements including build and material quality.

Stance are always a great choice for those owners who are going for the slammed look with their build while retaining great handling. Stance have also focused heavily on corrosion and rust prevention with these coilovers, which is always extremely useful for road cars. There’s nothing more annoying than seized coilovers!

Manufacturer description: “Stance XR1 Coilovers are made to perform and offer some of the best high end features with impeccable build quality. What makes Stance Coilovers different (and better!) is a special Inverted Monotube design that was originally designed for use in professional motorsports.“

“Stance XR1 Coilovers have an Electrodeposition polymer coating that offers superior protection against rust, corrosion, salt and more. This is some of the best coasting we have seen on a coilover system!“

Our winner

Our winner is the KW Variant 3 coilover kit.

KW has an enviable reputation in the suspension market and these Variant 3 models are no exception. With high quality springs, progressive spring rates, plenty of adjustment, and the highest quality build materials then the other products in this guide, we are confident to recommend this coilover kit for your E46.

If you’re looking for a more track orientated setup then the KW Clubsport could quite possibly be the answer to your needs. If you like the idea of what KW has to offer, and spend most of your time on the road then their V3 kit is undoubtedly worth considering.

KW Variant 3 coilover kit

kw clubsport e46 coilovers

For those who want to get the best possible performance from their E46, we have no doubt that the KW Variant 3 coilovers will be the best option for cutting down those lap times whilst avoiding a nagging girlfriend on the daily drive! There are some other serious contenders out there and the E46 selection is undoubtedly one of the more impressive on the tuning scene.

Budget winner

Another set of coilovers which blew us away during research were the budget-offering from BC Racing with their BR range. It’s not often you find a coilover kit for under $1,000 which meets approval from such a huge range of owners. If you’re on a budget and spend most of your time enjoying the E46 on the road, we have no doubt that these will be a great choice.

BC Racing BR Series

bc racing e46 coilovers

Thank you for reading our BMW E46 coilover guide!

If you enjoyed this article then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Ever wondered the difference between the M3 and M4? You can read our M3 Vs M4 guide.

Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for allowing us to use their imagery:

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