Best downpipes

[apsuard]

I’m looking at picking up a RS7 Performance in a few months. Will go APR stage 2 so would like feedback on best downpipes. Was going to do APR since I get free stage 2 upgrade but sounds like those aren’t recommended by others. I would also prefer fully catless. I heard someone mention AMS but I couldn’t find an option for RS7 downpipes on their website??

[OlyS6]

As you'll see in some other threads, AMS will not guarantee fitment of their downpipes on the RS7 (likely because they've not vetted it themselves). That said, the part number for the stock downpipes on the RS7 are exactly the same as both the S6 and S7, so the AMS pipes should work just fine. There is really no huge reason to not go with the APR downpipes, especially since it will allow you to upgrade to Stage 2 for free. I and others have a few small qualms about the APR downpipes (although I own them myself, I haven't had any issue big enough to immediately change them out to AMS). You won't go wrong either way. AMS has slightly nicer cats and a flange connection that connects the downpipes to the midpipes, making it less likely to have an exhaust leak at that particular joint. Is it worth an extra $1K for the pipes plus the added software upgrade cost? That's subjective and is up to you.

[IowaRS7]

If you want to go without CATs, you should look into the Milltek setup. The APR is a great deal and comes with the Stage II tune, but requires some tinkering when it comes to mating up to aftermarket exhausts. The AMS is $$$$ but uses the same OEM placement of the CATs and flange to connect to the midpipe, so it works with EPL tunes and aftermarket exhaust setups a little easier. The Milltek setup uses a straight pipe off the turbo with a flange to the midpipe and they offer a CATless midpipe or one with a highflow CAT setup, this all connects up to their resonated or non-resonated Catback setups making for some flexible options. If you want a highly free flowing turbo back without CATs then Milltek may be your best option. It would be loud and raucious!!

[limeypride]

I’m looking at picking up a RS7 Performance in a few months. Will go APR stage 2 so would like feedback on best downpipes. Was going to do APR since I get free stage 2 upgrade but sounds like those aren’t recommended by others. I would also prefer fully catless. I heard someone mention AMS but I couldn’t find an option for RS7 downpipes on their website??

I can't help on the question of DPs since I've not done it myself. Came close but just wasn't excited enough. I'm running stage 2 without them--no probs so far.

I wanted to mention that I'm not sure I'd go for the Performance model again. Don't get me wrong, it's a great car but it's spec'd more towards track usage and, once tuned, doesn't seem to offer any performance enhancement over the non-Performance model.

If you've found one used and the price is right, then it probably makes sense but I wouldn't take the price hit again on a new car--put that money into options or aftermarket add-ons.

[apsuard]

I’m buying used but thanks for the performance vs prestige comment.

Is AMS the best catless option to mate to OEM Exhaust?

Sounds like I should just go APR dps

[JASCOTT9]

I can't help on the question of DPs since I've not done it myself. Came close but just wasn't excited enough. I'm running stage 2 without them--no probs so far.

I wanted to mention that I'm not sure I'd go for the Performance model again. Don't get me wrong, it's a great car but it's spec'd more towards track usage and, once tuned, doesn't seem to offer any performance enhancement over the non-Performance model.

If you've found one used and the price is right, then it probably makes sense but I wouldn't take the price hit again on a new car--put that money into options or aftermarket add-ons.

Limeypride, you don't have any heating issues without the dp, and how long have you been running like this w/o dp's as I'm thinking of doing the same

[limeypride]

Limeypride, you don't have any heating issues without the dp, and how long have you been running like this w/o dp's as I'm thinking of doing the same

No issues whatsoever. I ran like that for a couple of months or more which equates to over 3,000 miles. I'm trying something new now so can't comment beyond that 3,000 miles point. My local dealer was happy to flash the stage II, let me test it for a few days and return me to stage I with a refund if I wasn't happy.

[OlyS6]

No issues whatsoever. I ran like that for a couple of months or more which equates to over 3,000 miles. I'm trying something new now so can't comment beyond that 3,000 miles point. My local dealer was happy to flash the stage II, let me test it for a few days and return me to stage I with a refund if I wasn't happy.

Limey, do you have the AMS downpipes on yet?

[limeypride]

No. I decided to try something different so I've gone for a custom 1:1 tune with a 7200rpm limiter... we're tweaking as we go.

I may come back to the downpipes but I don't want any more variables introduced into the mix while we're honing this new SW.

[brad65ford]

Can't say for install but I spent a good bit of time talking with a few APR and AMS dp owners mostly s6 guys but its said to fit on the rs7. I actually returned my apr dp's since I really didn't want to modify a cat back system which i've already purchased. To me the APR cast parts looks so sharp that alone would make me purchase them lol. The AMS is said to keep the cat's in the same location as factory which allows for cat back installes no problem. But also its harder to install and keeps the heat closer to the engine bay imo.

One thing I've noticed is when you are making more power (stage 1, 2 etc.) you going to create more heat which results in robbing performance. IMO the stock dp isn't a huge restriction in performance other then keeping heat closer to the engine bay. Believe finding better cooling options (intercooler/radiator cooling etc) for our cars may result in better performance if that is the goal.

[carx7]

Best is quite subjective and really depends on other factors.

If you don't care about cats, there are numerous options including Miltek, AMS and a few options on ebay.
If you want APR Stage II, then the APR DPs are an interesting option due to inclusion of the stage II file.
If you get an exhaust you don't want to cut (Akrapovik for example) then you're either limited to AMS, Miltek, Ebay, or if you want APR, you have to pay for customization.
If you need to pass emissions, CEL, whatever, and you aren't willing to hassle with spacers, etc then there are 3 options: Stock, AMS, Mike's from Russia.

I personally fall into the last category. I own Miltek and APR and I have to deal with a state inspection that requires not just that the CEL be off, but also that all the sensors are "ready state". This means they cannot be "tuned out" with a system like APR (or others). I do my own work, but am not willing to swap down pipes yearly. I have also hassled with 3 different spacer setups on several exhaust setups and not had one work reliably yet. <- Back luck I'm sure.

Given this, and after speaking extensively with Mike in Russia, I have purchased his downpipes and will be reporting back on them in the upcoming weeks as they compare against my miltek and APR setups. What I'm told: Uses the Same GESI UHO 300 cell cats used by AMS which are better than GESI HO 300 cell cats used by APR. Uses a more blended pipe inlet than AMS, but doesn't look as clean as the cast APR. Uses 2mm (.078" wall (.078") tube vs 1.6mm wall (.065) wall used by AMS. Fits in stock location just like AMS but crosses over engine as factory whereas AMS and APR both drop down the same side of the car. Mike guaranteed me no CEL and he offered me a 2 year no questions asked warranty. Advantage to my situation: no customization of anything, bolt in solution with my Akra exhaust, no spacers, no CEL, 2/3 cost of AMS triggered my interest.

Now, if they don't work as advertised that's a different story but based on my discussions with Mike I felt it low risk. We'll see.

[carx7]

Best is quite subjective and really depends on other factors.

If you don't care about cats, there are numerous options including Miltek, AMS and a few options on ebay.
If you want APR Stage II, then the APR DPs are an interesting option due to inclusion of the stage II file.
If you get an exhaust you don't want to cut (Akrapovik for example) then you're either limited to AMS, Miltek, Ebay, or if you want APR, you have to pay for customization.
If you need to pass emissions, CEL, whatever, and you aren't willing to hassle with spacers, etc then there are 3 options: Stock, AMS, Mike's from Russia.

I personally fall into the last category. I own Miltek and APR and I have to deal with a state inspection that requires not just that the CEL be off, but also that all the sensors are "ready state". This means they cannot be "tuned out" with a system like APR (or others). I do my own work, but am not willing to swap down pipes yearly. I have also hassled with 3 different spacer setups on several exhaust setups and not had one work reliably yet. <- Back luck I'm sure.

Given this, and after speaking extensively with Mike in Russia, I have purchased his downpipes and will be reporting back on them in the upcoming weeks as they compare against my miltek and APR setups. What I'm told: Uses the Same GESI UHO 300 cell cats used by AMS which are better than GESI HO 300 cell cats used by APR. Uses a more blended pipe inlet than AMS, but doesn't look as clean as the cast APR. Uses 2mm (.078" wall (.078") tube vs 1.6mm wall (.065) wall used by AMS. Fits in stock location just like AMS but crosses over engine as factory whereas AMS and APR both drop down the same side of the car. Mike guaranteed me no CEL and he offered me a 2 year no questions asked warranty. Advantage to my situation: no customization of anything, bolt in solution with my Akra exhaust, no CEL, no spacers, 2/3 cost of AMS.

Now, if they don't work as advertised that's a different story but based on my discussions with Mike I felt it low risk. We'll see.

few pics he sent me.

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[brad65ford]

Looks good. Great post and info. Post results when you get them installed.

[pawels1]

few pics he sent me.

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I saw them on eBay. I am so excited that you ordered and give us the information. I will try them too. I have milltek resonated exhaust and hope they will fit with no problem as OEM. And if they don’t give CEL I am in.
Thanks for this post


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[ehofmann]

Good post. Keep us updated. Btw could a person just buy catless downpipes then have a shop weld in the stock cats around stock location?


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[jbs6]

Best is quite subjective and really depends on other factors.

If you don't care about cats, there are numerous options including Miltek, AMS and a few options on ebay.
If you want APR Stage II, then the APR DPs are an interesting option due to inclusion of the stage II file.
If you get an exhaust you don't want to cut (Akrapovik for example) then you're either limited to AMS, Miltek, Ebay, or if you want APR, you have to pay for customization.
If you need to pass emissions, CEL, whatever, and you aren't willing to hassle with spacers, etc then there are 3 options: Stock, AMS, Mike's from Russia.

I personally fall into the last category. I own Miltek and APR and I have to deal with a state inspection that requires not just that the CEL be off, but also that all the sensors are "ready state". This means they cannot be "tuned out" with a system like APR (or others). I do my own work, but am not willing to swap down pipes yearly. I have also hassled with 3 different spacer setups on several exhaust setups and not had one work reliably yet. <- Back luck I'm sure.

Given this, and after speaking extensively with Mike in Russia, I have purchased his downpipes and will be reporting back on them in the upcoming weeks as they compare against my miltek and APR setups. What I'm told: Uses the Same GESI UHO 300 cell cats used by AMS which are better than GESI HO 300 cell cats used by APR. Uses a more blended pipe inlet than AMS, but doesn't look as clean as the cast APR. Uses 2mm (.078" wall (.078") tube vs 1.6mm wall (.065) wall used by AMS. Fits in stock location just like AMS but crosses over engine as factory whereas AMS and APR both drop down the same side of the car. Mike guaranteed me no CEL and he offered me a 2 year no questions asked warranty. Advantage to my situation: no customization of anything, bolt in solution with my Akra exhaust, no spacers, no CEL, 2/3 cost of AMS triggered my interest.

Now, if they don't work as advertised that's a different story but based on my discussions with Mike I felt it low risk. We'll see.

Can you share a link for the DP sold by Mike from Russia. Thanks


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[carx7]

Can you share a link for the DP sold by Mike from Russia. Thanks


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Hi. There is another thread here with some discussions on down pipes and a few people have talked about his non-catted down pipes. I can't find the thread this minute but his website is ( yes it's all Russian)
http://mikes-custom.ru/index.php/com...s77?Itemid=618
and the email I have been talking to him through is:
[email protected]
He asked me to speak via whatsapp, and that has worked very well. I sent payment Friday morning ( his Friday night) and he said fab would take 3 business days, then shipping. I'm not in a rush but the other guys were impressed.

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[pawels1]

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?m...2F132503716210
How about those??


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[pawels1]

Anyone install those Mike’s pipes yet?? I am about to pull the trigger and get them but first I would like to hear from someone who already using them. Thanks


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[Rafal84]

Hello!

Poland! I use the Polish company Mg Motorsport (https://www.facebook.com/MGmotorsportpl/) in RS6Performance 2017 DP. The product quality is phenomenal, in combination with Akrapovic the exhaust is very loud.

I just use the version without catalysts.

[carx7]

Anyone install those Mike’s pipes yet?? I am about to pull the trigger and get them but first I would like to hear from someone who already using them. Thanks


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Some have reported installs on the non-catted versions without issue. My catted pipes are in the garage awaiting some spare time from me without family in town :)

[bja72774]

Some really great info here, thanks all! Im between AMS and Mikes now. Now all I need is a similar thread for all the different turbo options, lol!

[Porschephd]

I didn't think there was an aftermarket exhaust that would mate to the APR DPs, AWE actually does make a couple of versions that simply slide right on. I can tell you the sound is glorious. At least once a week someone tells me the car sound intoxicating. As far as fitment they were pretty straight forward and I had them installed in an afternoon. I did some research before hand thought the casting was nice in pics but in person they will blow you away. You might look at that combo as it turned out to be pretty inexpensive and I naturally stage 2 comes with it.

[widebodyfx]

Here's Audi Sport Akrapovic with Mike's downpipes. https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs0mdY4h..._web_copy_link

[Raudi J]

Mike's DP's 7 days from ordering to shipping!

[widebodyfx]

You will highly enjoy it with the Akrapovic.

[The Infiltrator]

So about $1200 for Mike's catted downpipes. Would anyone like to chime in and let us know if these sound close or about the same as the AMS? or any other differences. I just want to to quiet the roar down a little when driving and loud when I want it to be. Also be quiet in the cabin unlike how loud the APR downpipes sound inside. I plan to use the AWE touring exhaust.

http://mikes-custom.ru/index.php/com...-s7?Itemid=618

[widebodyfx]

Those are magnaflow cats, most everyone here is choosing the Gesi option, so closer to 2k with shipping. http://mikes-custom.ru/index.php/com...-s7?Itemid=618

The standard cat with the Gesi option is the 7530, carx7 requested the 7830 which is a little more money. https://vibrantperformance.com/catal...d5ff6130e176c9

Stumbled on this site somehow the other day. Cheaper for OEM config but 2.5" piping and unknown catalyst, looks similar to unitronic which looks to be discontinued now. https://www.evox-performance.com/en/...-audi-rs7.html https://www.getunitronic.com/parts/e...tfsi-downpipes

[The Infiltrator]

Those are magnaflow cats, most everyone here is choosing the Gesi option, so closer to 2k with shipping. http://mikes-custom.ru/index.php/com...-s7?Itemid=618

The standard cat with the Gesi option is the 7530, carx7 requested the 7830 which is a little more money. https://vibrantperformance.com/catal...d5ff6130e176c9

Stumbled on this site somehow the other day. Cheaper for OEM config but 2.5" piping and unknown catalyst, looks similar to unitronic which looks to be discontinued now. https://www.evox-performance.com/en/...-audi-rs7.html https://www.getunitronic.com/parts/e...tfsi-downpipes

What's the difference with the Gesi CAT?

[widebodyfx]

The 7530 and the 7830? Vibrant rates them differently for power and the 7830 is 1/2" larger OD.

The Magnaflow part looks to be 59959 cost is $110 or so each vs. $400+ each for the Vibrant models. It's good to have a lower price point part available but up to you which is worth the effort of buying and installing. Mike's are 76mm piping either way.



Magnaflow looks to have a 4.0TT full downpipe replacement parts, 2.5" piping.
52315 https://www.magnaflow.com/products?partNumber=52315
52316 https://www.magnaflow.com/products?partNumber=52316

[Gravy Train]

I prefer the design and construction of HPA's downpipes for the price:
https://www.hpamotorsports.com/audi-c7-s6-s7-downpipes

These use the same 300-cell GESI converter that AMS uses with inconel turbine flanges and a full 3" midpipe section.

[The Infiltrator]

Oh yes!!!

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[15 Phantom S6]

^^ Looks nice, but no heat protection on the DPs at all? It's already so hot in that area, I think you're engine bay temps are going to increase substantially...

[The Infiltrator]

^^ Looks nice, but no heat protection on the DPs at all? It's already so hot in that area, I think you're engine bay temps are going to increase substantially...

Look at the heat shields on the stock pipes. They did very little and I don't think me leaving it as is will effect anything. I drove it all this weekend without any power loss and it's 90+ degrees here.

I don't track or launch it either.

[digdah]

How much louder did the DPs make it? I'm going to be pulling the trigger on them in a month or 2 but my Milltek setup is already pretty loud.

[The Infiltrator]

How much louder did the DPs make it? I'm going to be pulling the trigger on them in a month or 2 but my Milltek setup is already pretty loud.

Loud, only a little. Mostly it's the deep growl and it's awesome. I'm not on a tune and you can feel the response difference and how much the stocks restricted everything.

[15 Phantom S6]

Look at the heat shields on the stock pipes. They did very little and I don't think me leaving it as is will effect anything. I drove it all this weekend without any power loss and it's 90+ degrees here.

I don't track or launch it either.

But at least the OEM ones had some, you have none.. Cranking the boost will only add additional heat.. Your car, but something to think about..

Power dropping off is one thing, but I'm more referring to plastics, rubber and other material in the engine bay melting or drying out over time (long or short), like hoses and such.. I've experienced first hand on other turbo car platforms over the years where anything from wire looms to rubber seals have all melted and all sorts of other heat related problems from not combating heat..

Maybe you'll be fine, just thought I would mention it in case you didn't think about it, but it seems as tho you did and determined it wasn't needed..

[The Infiltrator]

But at least the OEM ones had some, you have none.. Cranking the boost will only add additional heat.. Your car, but something to think about..

Power dropping off is one thing, but I'm more referring to plastics, rubber and other material in the engine bay melting or drying out over time (long or short), like hoses and such.. I've experienced first hand on other turbo car platforms over the years where anything from wire looms to rubber seals have all melted and all sorts of other heat related problems from not combating heat..

Maybe you'll be fine, just thought I would mention it in case you didn't think about it, but it seems as tho you did and determined it wasn't needed..

Yeah I looked into it and it really doesn't add much more heat to the bay really. I have been searching for a heat shield material that I can bend and add in easily. Like the link below.

Heatshield Products 110614 Inferno Shield 6" x 14" Aluminum Heat Shield https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002UPL61U..._HRx9CbVSB2FH6

[OaborbaG]

My DP's from Mike should be here sometime this week. Thinking about wrapping them similar to how carx7's are to try and cut down some of the heat in the engine bay.

[The Infiltrator]

I just hit my downpipes with my laser heat gun and it reads around 410° F. Outside temp shown on dash is 94°F.

Edit: today was 91 out and the downpipe temp is 340°F