Just inherited my dad's prized r53, and him and I want to get an exhaust together. I told him about the Agency Power catback, but he has not heard of it. it looks reliable, but I am torn between the Agency and Borla Catback. Alta is also a consideration, but I want to know which I will be most satisfied with.

 

I had the same issue as you. It seems the R53 model exhaust has a weak weld at this joint and is susceptible to cracking and falling apart. I removed my header and and cat section, cleaned up the area and rewelded. Does not seem as if this option suits you so go for the salvage exhaust if you are on a budget. Keep in mind the salvage exhaust is probably the same as OEM and can experience the same crack. Also, I use Way Motor Works for most of my MINI parts and tools. I trust him with all things MINI as he has never steered me in the worng direction over the last 10 years. He has header, cat and muffler options as well as other parts. Check him out if you get a chance.