There are no lack of options of exhaust systems for the BMW E46 M3. Since it’s introduction into the US market in 2001, the E46 M3 has been one of the most popular performance platforms, able to take you to your local Trader Joes and set lap time records on the weekends. And as versatile as the E46 M3 is, so are the available exhaust systems. In this guide, we’re going to review what we consider one of the the best cheap exhausts on the market – the Top Speed Pro 1 stainless and titanium Section 3 Axleback Exhausts.
The Top Speed Pro 1 exhaust for the E46 M3 is an axle back exhaust. It’s also referred to as the Section 3 or the Muffler Section. You can see in the photo that it doesn’t include any piping except just enough to connect to the Section 2.
This 2.5″ exhaust is considered a race exhaust because it’s extremely loud. If you want one of the most aggressive sounding systems on the market, this would be it. The exhaust uses mufflers that can be hardly considered a muffler – more like larger resonators. But for ultimate performance this is what you are looking for. The exhaust is significantly lighter than stock and removes lots of weight from the very back of the car.
This E46 M3 exhaust is available in two different materials. One is stainless steel and the other is titanium. The titanium version (pictured above) is only 15 lbs and offers a unique and exotic sound. The one below is only a bit heavier and is only $549 retail price. One of the cheapest exhausts on the market!
The exhaust is also super easy to install. You simply need to remove the 3 exhaust hangers and then unbolt the muffler from the Section 2. All in all you can swap this muffler in less than 45 minutes!
Check out the sound clip above. This video shows what the exhaust sounds like with catless headers, which will make it much more aggressive sounding.
We’d love to hear your review of this exhaust. Do you have the Top Speed Pro 1 exhaust on your E46 M3? Share your feedback, how it’s held up over the years and what you like or don’t like about it.
We think if you’re looking for an aggressive sounding and lightweight exhaust for your E46 M3, for $549 this Top Speed can’t be beat!
