Yes I have read dozens of threads on exhausts, which ones are quiet/loud, reviews everything. There may be ones I have missed that answer my questions, if so please direct me to them.

I am still researching for a vortech build. I have decided on 8psi on stock block, stage 0 CJM return system, 600cc Deatschwerks injectors, aeromotive fuel pump, uprev. I would like a quiet exhaust to complement this. It can be slightly louder than stock but not much more. Most of the threads I read give the impression that 90% of the exhausts out there increase the volume significantly. I can't really tolerate drone/rasp, to me personally it makes driving much less enjoyable especially on long trips.

My questions are
- is the stock exhaust adequate for my build? 2.5" is usually sufficient for decent power on most platforms....
- how much would you estimate the stock exhaust would hold it back power wise compared to the average aftermarket exhaust? 20whp? 50whp?
- would high flow cats with the stock exhaust be a good compromise? +/- Ypipe?

Thank you for the advice.

 

If you are maintaining your OEM cats then your stock exhaust will suffice, especially if you on a budget. The cats are the 'bottle neck' of the system, so if you open up the exhaust but not the cats it's not gonna really make a huge difference. If you go with high flow cats or test pipes you should look into a true dual exhaust with a X pipe.

all things equal between the OEM exhaust vs. an aftermarket…? maybe 20 to 25whp…it depends on what setup and what exhaust…

I like my stillen exhaust, it's pretty quiet between 1000rpms and 4000rpms and above that it gets loud. I like the sound and I like stillen in general - they are sorta expensive though…also see what people thing about the Invidia N1…your exhaust note will vary whether you go with OEM cats, HFC or test pipes…so keep that in the back of your head…

I would upgrade your exhaust/cats last…get your blower and engine mods in place and see how you like it…if you want a different exhaust note and/or you're not happy with the power output then consider test pipes and then an exhaust setup...

 

"I would like a quiet exhaust to complement this" Ok, so give that up with a Vortech, because the blower will be heard long before the exhaust will. I run a V3 Vortech, with Bassani system, Xpipe and Bassani Catback. Bassani because I know Darryl Bassani from working with him at 5.0 Mustang and Super Ford magazine. Bassani Xpipes make power. We tested his system on a bone stock 350Z 2005 and it made like 17 rwhp, with no tune. It's also called " Quiet Thunder" tame in town, but rip it open and watch the heads turn. Your on the right path, but don't restrict the exhaust, after the blower, all that spent exhaust needs to be pushed out efficiently, the Xipe helps scavenge the exhaust gases. Check all the Mustang Forums for Xipe dyno tests results. Good luck, go with a V3 self contained blower!

 

Maybe I will think about some berk HFC's if the stock cats are the bottleneck and maybe a Y-pipe with a resonator. I will need HFC's or something that has wideband port for when it comes to tuning. I think I will keep the stock midpipe back exhaust, I don't think the gains for me will be enough to offset the increase in volume. I can always get a nismo later on if I decide I hate my neighbours.

 

Nismo exhaust is quiet, you will want a nice single exhaust if you hate them.