Guys

I've scoured other threads about exhausts for first generation minis and can't quite find an up-to-date answer to guide me. Mine is a 2006 R52 S Convertible and the original factory exhaust needs to be replaced. My wish list is a) stainless steel, b) QUIET on inside of car, c) relatively easy to install. I don't care about tuning and would be completely happy receiving a welded-together unit as opposed to assembling a lot of pieces with clamps.

Here's what I see as my choices:
1. BMW factory JCW exhaust. Dealer quoted me $742 US for the part. I've read that the JCW factory piece will fit on a Cooper S Convertible, but I'm not sure.
2. Mini Cooper "JCW Exhaust Rear Section" from Mini Mania (#NME8720). I actually ordered this item because I liked everything I read and the price was right at $640 US. But then the shipping quote came in at $415 US which made me think -- I'd better be sure.
3. MagnaFlow Mini Cooper Touring Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust (#16662). Expensive at $1133 US but free shipping. I like the thought of MF reputation but have not heard anything from anyone who has installed one
4. X-Force Stainless Steel 2.5" Cat-Back Exhaust (#XFO ES-MINI-01) - Good price at $449.10 US with free shipping but again, not much online feedback especially concerning loudness.
5. Others? I'm not interested in the stock exhaust because I want stainless steel

Finally, most important to me is that QUIET and durability/stainess. Appreciate all responses.

Dan

 

I run a X-Force header on one of our R53’s and have been happy with the quality.

 

I've seen the Milltek brand mentioned frequently in various discussion. I don't have any experience with anything but OEM so I can't add anything. I too don't care for a loud exhaust so I am interested in your findings as I may someday need a new exhaust on my '06 R52.

 

From experience, the MAGNAFLOW we had was LOUD. Perhaps their "Touring" exhaust is quieter. I wouldn't know. The MILLTEK with resonated center section isn't loud, IMHO, but it is louder than a stock exhaust. You can hear the radio and speak with others in the car. No drone, though and excellent fit. It is stainless steel and well-made. "Lifetime" guarantee if purchased from an authorized dealer.

 

Many feel the JCW is too quiet, so it’s probably the best for your wants, and $742 seems like a good price if it includes the resonated mid-pipe, mufflers, and tips. NAM vendor ECS Tuning has the resonator for $355 and the rear exhaust/mufflers for $503. You’ll probably also want the tips and they are $66 each. Not sure what they charge for shipping though.

A complete resonated Milltek system is another popular choice and the resonated version is often compared to the JCW in regards to sound. ECS has them on sale for $720 with free shipping. The mufflers are a little smaller and aren’t really visible below the bumper, unlike the JCW mufflers. The non-resonated version is $656 shipped, but it’s probably worth paying extra for the resonator since you’re concerned with noise levels.

There should be a lot of info on them and how they sound on the various forums and YouTube.

 

Milltek +1 while its on sale right now, they will also be increasing prices, so this will be the lowest it will be.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-and-more.html

 

JCW for the win here. Had one on my '08 R52 S for three years now and no complaints.

 

Wow! Thanks much guys. Based on the advice, I'm going to give the Miltek Resonated solution a try. I'll let you know how it goes. Great advice from all!

 

Great choice as it is the best option, we still have them on sale for a couple days so snag it quick.
https://www.waymotorworks.com/milltek-catback-high-flow-exhaust-r52-cabrio.html