The BMW M52 E36 Headers is one of those models with a near-classic status in the automotive world, praised for its performance and driving dynamics combined with iconic design. Under the hood, there lies a very potent naturally aspirated inline-six powerhouse in the M52 engine, which serves as a great basis for performance-enhancing enthusiasts. One of the most common upgrades is to headers and manifolds-the crankshaft really does provide an impact in terms of power delivery, exhaust note, and efficiency.
Understanding Headers and Manifolds
Headers and exhaust manifolds serve essentially the same function: to capture the exhaust gasses from the engine’s cylinders and point them toward the exhaust system. However, differences in design between the two significantly affect performance.
Exhaust Manifolds: These are usually made of cast iron and are installed at the assembly plant. Compact in size, they emphasize cost, durability, and ease of production over ideal performance; effective for a stock application but by the nature of their configuration, do not allow for ideal exhaust flow.
Headers: Most aftermarket headers are made from stainless steel or other light-weight materials. They consist of individual, equal-length tubes for every cylinder, which meet at a collector. This configuration enhances exhaust scavenging and minimizes backpressure, yielding better performance and a louder exhaust.
Benefits of Upgrading to M52 Headers
An M52 head fits a typical E36 engine. Owners of an M52-powered E36 engine have much to benefit from when they upgrade to performance headers.
Increased Horsepower and Torque: Headers reduce backpressure, enabling the engine to breathe more freely-unlocking additional power. Depending on the header design, gains can range from 5 to 15 horsepower or more when matched with the performance intake and tune.
More Characterful Sound: Moving from a stock manifold to headers creates a richer, more resonant sound for the exhaust and, therefore, the driving experience.
Better Throttle Response: Improved exhaust flow out of the headers results in quicker throttle response, which really shows under spirited driving conditions.
Weight Reduction: Performance heads are usually lighter than factory manifolds, which will contribute to a little bit of weight reduction and better overall balance.
Choosing the Right Headers for Your E36
When choosing performance headers for your M52 E36, consider these factors:
Material: Stainless steel headers are long-lasting, resistant to corrosion, and can hold up to extreme temperatures. They are a great option for the enthusiast who wants something durable that can last longer and produce constant performance.
Design: Long-tube headers offer the greatest gains at high RPMs and are fantastic for track-oriented builds. Shorty headers are easier to fit and contribute significant improvements in mid-range torque and may be better suited to a daily driver.
Fitment: Use the specific manifolds made for the M52 to ensure proper fitment, because some after-fit products demand exhaust modification or other component modifications.
E36 Manifold Upgrades
For those not ready to invest in an aftermarket header, upgrading or optimizing the stock exhaust manifold can still offer benefits. Porting the manifold or pairing it with a high-flow catalytic converter can help optimize exhaust flow without requiring a whole header swap.
There are also those fans who try to seek their exhaust pieces through swaps with other BMWs. For instance, the exhaust manifold from an E46 M54 can directly bolt on to some E36 M52, giving a better flow characterization.
Conclusion
An exhaust manifold and/or header upgrade on an M52-powered E36 is justifiable for anyone who wants more performance, a better exhaust note, and a more drivable car in general. From a full set of long-tube headers for maximum power to something rather milder, like a manifold upgrade, these changes are sure to be a great enhancement to the driving experience.
As with any modification, research and proper installation are the keys to realizing the best possible results. Properly set up, your E36 manifolds can represent the best of what BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” legacy has to offer.
