"These build journal entries are part of a Special Series on the S85 OE+ Carbon Plenums and OE+ Carbon Side Intakes (M5/6 V10).

In this entry, I chat about my driving impressions of the S85 OEM+ Carbon Plenums, source Autobahn sound clips and give my final word."
- Matt

My experience.

I had some expectations of decibel increase, having run the equivalent carbon plenum on my S65 for the last year or so.

However, the architecture of the V10 and its uneven firing order creates a unique sound. The V10 doesn't make the guttural & "rattly" induction sounds of the V8 in the 3,000 RPM range.

A lot of it has to do with the overall smooth nature of the V10 over the V8. It's better balance and the firing order smooths out vibrations and frequencies that generate more noises with the V8.

You control the volume with the throttle.

The S85 with OE+ carbon plenums starts making up for its smoothness above 4000. There is a noticeable increase in volume - it's louder across the mid range all the way to redline. 

WOT gives you all the decibels, part throttle remains mild. The original M5 design philosophy is retained; the spectrum is simply enhanced.

With windows up, the plenums dampen my V3 catless headers and valved rear section with windows up. If I want the signature V10 exhaust symphonies, I go into Lambo mode: the back seats get folded down and the windows are lowered.

Life got in the way and I couldn't manage sound clips in time - but the Germans did. Here's a sound clip on the autobahn: it captures the essence of the sound increase at mid to high RPMs accurately. 

Final word: this is a quality and well priced product.

We have few options in the V10 world compared to M3 V8 owners - yet this is no sacrifice.

The OE+ design is proven, reliable, affordable and uncorks the V10 induction noises. 

Up next: we apply the OE+ philosophy to the side intakes.