Exhaust Trends: Louder And Lighter, With Exotic Materials

Go to any enthusiast show and the exhaust manufacturers are there with the most exotic systems yet. This year, you'll see systems that are 4 or even 4-1/2" in diameter, with consistent size through the entire system -- made possible by smooth mandrel bends. This type of design maintains maximum flow and minimizes back pressure (the resistance to exhaust gases flowing through). Combining a free flowing exhaust with a less-restrictive air intake can make a noticeable difference in both power and response.

The other trend in evidence is the use of titanium. Careful design for the use of titanium can reduce exhaust system component weight over 60%! Further, titanium has a higher resistance to corrosion than stainless steel - long the standard material for exhausts. Headers and other components that regularly exceed 400 degrees centigrade cannot be made of titanium, but from the header back, you will see more and more titanium applied to performance aftermarket exhausts this year.