A model for the pressure drop was proposed and compared to experimental results. Global flow characteristics and velocity distribution were studied from residence time distribution measurements in a ＇＇race-track＇＇ monolith. Significant dead volumes were detected and the velocity distribution was determined. The effect of flow-rate, inlet tube diameter and flow deflector was investigated. Study of the time evolution of outlet temperature and temperature distribution in a monolith coated or not with catalyst makes it possible to determine the thermal characteristics of heat-up. The influence of flow rate, velocity distribution and developing laminar flow regime in the channel were qualitatively estimated. Theses results allow one to determine the hydrodynamic and thermal behavior of the catalytic converter and to propose reliable and realistic assumptions for subsequent modeling.