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$800 would cover a $300 OEM clutch kit (i.e. clutch disk, pressure plate, release bearing, etc.) and $500 in labor, which is probably pretty easy to achieve. So I think the cost I quoted would not be hard to find for an OEM clutch.
Aftermarket clutches are what they are...you should not assume an aftermarket clutch (or any part) is automatically better.
As e60 deluxe pointed out (do you own a 2004+ 5-series?), OEM-style clutches have the following going for them:
-Designed for smooth engagement and long life
-Utilize an organic material which can afford to be over-heated...when it cools, it regains it's friction characteristics.
-When installed properly, it'll feel and operate like stock
Aftermarket clutches are often built to handle greater torque loads. They do this, typically, at the expense of some engagement. Now don't get me wrong....there are aftermarket clutches that will improve clutch pedal feel, have great engagement, and provide long life. They typically are....you guessed it....an OEM-style design. They utilize the same clutch design and use an organic material, as opposed to say....a 4 or 6-puck kevlar friction material, which will grab like a mofo and make driving in traffic the worst day of your life.
When or if my SI's clutch dies, I might go with an OEM style aftermarket clutch. But I'll do so with the sure knowledge that I am trading the solidity of the stock clutch for the possibility of improved clutch pedal feel/clutch capacity and the potential for unintended consequences.
Joe
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