Ok, I know I’m not supposed to ask questions about what’s the best exhaust…so I’m not. I have read enough threads to know that. However. after reading what seems to be a million posts and basically just going over arguments between new people and members with tenure, I am frustrated. The answer is always it’s “whatever is best for you” i.e. your budget, sound, looks. With that said the best for me is magnaflow, because of price mostly and looks, plus I do not like loud and obnoxious exhaust. However, after doing further research I have come across some troubling info. On other threads…specifically Canadian threads they have bashed the magnaflow because of rust and weld problems. So could I please have some input for people who have magnaflow. Give me your overall opinion and any problems you may have. Also I have been a member since December basically 7 months I have been doing my research so don’t automatically consider me a newbie asking a stupid question…I have done my reading which accounts for the lack of post by me. So thank you in advance.

 

Magnaflow doesn't use a resonator, so cabin drone is pretty bad. I also had problems with their mid-pipe rattling, as it is straight and just barely clears the frame braces (at least on a G35 Coupe). I kept it on my car for about a week and ended up sending it back for a refund. I'd stick to a Japanese manufactured system. I think HKS is probably the hottest thing going right now.

 

The 3 top systems out there will be Stillen, HKS and Fast Intentions - for true dual setups. They all have very similar HP gains, however they all sound different, so yes, listen to a few if you haven't.

Based on your desire for the Magnaflow, that somewhat shows your budget range as well. You may want to consider the Borla, in that case, or just wait until you have more money.

Another way to go, would be to get HFC - they will cost about the same as the Magnaflow, give you almost the same results performance-wise, give you a nice sound without drone, as you'll still use the rest of your stock system. Perhaps add a good quality Y-pipe.

Sorry if I've given you and answer you were specifically not asking for, I'm not trying to sell you anything, just consult.

Rick

 

Have to agree with Rick. Exhaust side is restricted from Nissan, so by opening it up, you'll get good gains. I added 15whp from FI's cats and catback. I love the sound of these and it's not too loud at all. It would be smart for you to maybe hang out at a meet and hear for yourself what these exhausts sound like. All the video/audio clips I've heard on the net never do justice to the exhaust. So if you heard one and then compared it the some of the clips, then in your mind you can adjust according the difference when listening to other exhausts. I know it's kinda gay but it helps, hopefully. But like Rick said why not start off with cats and go from there. I know, big help huh?

 

Also - sorry to butt in a gain, but:

Usually, when you do an exhaust system, it is always advices to start from the rear of the car and move forward. I know it's contradictory to what we have said here, BUT it is a wise-way to go for sound tuning and desired performance. The ONLY reason I said to start with HFC's, is the budget you may have set yourself out to meet, in the $500-$600 range, or so.

What you have not eluded to yet, is your goals for augmenting your exhaust. Sound? Performance? Look? Or a combination of the above.

 

I've had the Magnaflow exhaust on my Z for about a year.
I bought it due to price point and the misleading sound clip at the Magnaflow web site. Since I live in the desert,I dont have any rust issues.But what i can tell you is the drone sucks. Stock exhaust sounds better.IMO start with some resonated test pipes or some HFC's. If you really want new exhaust,save your
money until you can afford HKS or a Fast Intentions setup.

 

Thanks! With the lack of support for magnaflow I’m thinking about the borla. I noticed a lot of people saying the borla changes the stock tone….more so than any other system. The sound clips to me however sound great. I also had borla on my last car and I loved it. The cost is ok I found it for about $750. Has anyone found it for a lower price? I found one thread…back from 2003, where a member bought one for in the $600 range. I really wish I had the time to go to some Z events but I don’t have time. The last vacation was Christmas.

 

As much as I love the Borla, you do have to watch out for drone after about 4 weeks, when it really is seasoned. The drone is more prevelant on the AT though. Also, if you can, have the H-pipe welded - it tends to leak and pull apart, as you'll see when installing it.

Best advice on the Borla, make sure you completly fit the exhaust on the car loose..then tighten from the front back, then weld the H pipe.

Rick