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Sidepipes rock - when the fumes roar sideways

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Recently updated on October 12, 2023 at 02:45 am

Sidepipes rock - when the fumes roar sideways

[Update: 12.10.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. Fat exhaust pipes and four-pipe systems are absolutely trendy. In times when even a standard VW Golf R has four exhaust pipes, when it comes to the exhaust system you can almost only make do with it sidepipes stand out from the crowd. Sidepipes are special exhaust systems in which the tailpipes are not attached to the rear as usual, but instead protrude from the side under the side skirts. This leads to higher performance and a distinctive, bassy sound, as there is usually no rear silencer.

factory installed in almost no vehicle

For the most part, these can be found on US sports cars, like one Corvette C3 from the year 1969, which was optionally available ex factory with Sidepipes, one Dodge / SRT Viper or the legendary one Cobra, which was developed by Carroll Shelby. However, there were also cars with this exhaust system that were not sporty at all, like the Renault 4. Of the cars currently built, only this one still has it Morgan Aero 8 and the AMG models of the Mercedes G-Class about this exhaust technology.

Sidepipes rock - when the fumes roar sideways
Mercedes G-Class with Sidepipes

Advantages of Sidepipes:

  • Unfiltered, honest engine sound.
  • Greasy look, which immediately gives a powerful impression.
  • In a rear-end collision, the tailpipes are not damaged.

Disadvantages of this exhaust type:

  • Sidepipes are expensive to repair.
  • In case of damage heat development in the interior possible.
  • Very noisy engine sound, if no rear silencer is available.

There is also the disadvantage that this type of exhaust is not road legal in most European countries if it does not comply with current noise regulations or if the exhaust pipe on the passenger side is directed upwards or horizontally outwards. Sidepipes are a popular retrofit item, especially in various US sports cars, if they were not installed at the factory, as these vehicles often have enough space between the body and the floor so that it is easily possible to retrofit sidepipes. Equipped with a rear silencer and tailored to local installation and noise regulations, there are no problems with the TÜV, and you have something very special that you can be proud of as a vehicle lover.

1. What exactly are sidepipes?

  • sidepipes are a type of exhaust system found on automobiles, particularly sports cars, where the exhaust tailpipes are mounted on the side of the vehicle, rather than conventionally at the rear. Placing it close to the engine and occasionally not using a rear silencer can result in lower exhaust back pressure and consequently increased engine performance.

2. Why might you choose this?

  • Apart from the appearance, which is certainly an incentive for many sidepipes also result in a slightly increased engine performance. Because they sit closer to the engine, they minimize exhaust back pressure, which can result in higher performance. They also make a statement for the sporty and aggressive look of the vehicle.

3. Are sidepipes allowed in Germany?

  • In fact, sidepipes are not generally banned in Germany. The sticking point lies in the very strict requirements that are set by the TÜV, for example. Complying with regulations can involve significant costs, leading many to forego sidepipes. Some vehicles, like the Mercedes G AMG or the Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren, have sidepipes.

Sidepipes rock - when the fumes roar sideways

4. What is the legal situation regarding sidepipes in Austria?

  • In Austria's current catalog of defects it is noted that the exhaust end may also point to the right, which implies that sidepipes are generally permitted during the "Pickerl" inspection (Austrian equivalent of the TÜV) as long as they comply with the applicable regulations.

5. Why are they particularly popular with US vehicles?

  • US vehicles, especially classic models and high-performance sports cars, often have the necessary space between the floor and the body to sidepipes to accommodate. In addition, the legislation regarding exhaust noise and emissions in the USA is structured differently than in many European countries, which makes it easier to install sidepipes.

6. Which vehicles are known for this?

  • Some models that are often associated with sidepipes are the AC Cobra, Corvette C3, Dodge Viper and the Jaguar XK SS. Also high-quality models like this Maybach exelero or the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLRs are available in certain versions with sidepipes or were produced this way.

7. Why are sidepipes often problematic in Europe in terms of road approval?

  • Sidepipes can violate noise regulations, especially if they are operated without a rear silencer. In addition, the positioning of the exhaust tailpipe, especially if it is directed upwards or horizontally outwards on the passenger side, can lead to legal concerns in European countries.

Conclusion

The use of sidepipes requires checking the laws and regulations. The smart choice is to opt for sidepipes that meet both technical and visual requirements while complying with regulatory guidelines.

Of course that had not happened yet!

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About Thomas Wachsmuth

Thomas Wachsmuth - He has been an integral part of tuningblog.eu since 2013. His passion for cars is so intense that he invests every available penny in them. While he dreams of a BMW E31 850CSI and a Hennessey 6x6 Ford F-150, he currently drives a rather inconspicuous BMW 540i (G31/LCI). His collection of books, magazines and brochures on the subject of car tuning has now reached such proportions that he himself has become a walking reference work for the tuning scene.  More about Thomas

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