You’ve been eyeing your Toyota 86 lovingly, pondering ways to enhance its performance and sound. You’ve heard of aftermarket exhaust systems, but you’re not sure what they do or if they’re worth the investment. Well, we’re here to break it down for you. This article will explore the various benefits of installing an aftermarket exhaust on your beloved Toyota, focusing on the aspects of sound and performance. We’ll discuss the role of a car’s exhaust system, the difference between stock and aftermarket systems, and how a Subaru BRZ or a Toyota 86 can benefit from a new exhaust.
Understanding the Role of Your Car’s Exhaust System
The exhaust system in your car is not simply an expulsion system for waste gases. It’s a much more complex and integral part of your vehicle. The exhaust system consists of several components, including the exhaust manifold (or header), the pipe, the catalytic converter (or ‘cat’), and the muffler.
The exhaust manifold collects exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders and directs them into the exhaust pipe. The catalytic converter then steps in to reduce harmful emissions by converting them into less harmful substances. Finally, the muffler reduces the noise produced by the exhaust process. This system works in harmony to ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently, minimizing harmful emissions and controlling noise levels.
The exhaust system is critical to your car’s performance. A well-functioning exhaust system will improve engine power and efficiency, reduce noise, and help maintain the health of your engine. However, these functions can be significantly enhanced with an aftermarket exhaust system.
The Difference Between Stock and Aftermarket Exhaust Systems
Your Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ comes with a stock exhaust system. While it’s designed to perform its basic functions well, it might not necessarily be optimized for high performance or sound. This is where aftermarket exhaust systems come into play.
Unlike stock systems, aftermarket exhausts are designed with performance in mind. They’re crafted to maximize the efficiency of gas flow (exhaust) from the engine, leading to improved power and performance. Aftermarket exhaust systems, such as a catback or axle-back exhaust, are typically less restrictive than stock systems. This means they allow the engine to “breathe” better, reducing backpressure and increasing power output.
In terms of sound, aftermarket exhaust systems can significantly change your car’s acoustics. They can make your vehicle sound more aggressive and sporty, enhancing the overall driving experience. The degree of sound change will depend on the type of exhaust system you choose.
Boosting Performance with an Aftermarket Exhaust
If you’re looking to push your Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ beyond its factory limits, an aftermarket exhaust system can provide a significant performance boost. A performance exhaust will enhance the power and torque of your engine by reducing exhaust back pressure and improving scavenging effects.
With less resistance in the exhaust system, your engine will be able to expel exhaust gases more efficiently. This improves the engine’s ability to intake fresh air, leading to more efficient combustion. A performance enhancement like this can translate into quicker acceleration, better throttle response, and even increased fuel efficiency under certain driving conditions.
Furthermore, aftermarket exhausts often use high-quality, heat-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or titanium. This not only ensures durability but also reduces the weight of the system compared to stock exhausts, further contributing to performance enhancement.
Enhancing Sound with an Aftermarket Exhaust
A car’s exhaust note is a significant part of its character, especially for sports cars like the Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ. An aftermarket exhaust can give your vehicle a distinct, impactful sound that turns heads.
Most aftermarket systems will produce a deeper, throatier growl compared to the often milder stock sound. This is not only due to the design and materials used but also the reduced restriction in gas flow. Some systems even offer adjustable sound levels, giving you control over your car’s acoustics.
Adding an aftermarket exhaust system to your car is akin to giving it a voice. It allows you to express your vehicle’s performance in a way that is not only felt but also heard. The sound of a car can be a powerful sensory experience, adding thrill and excitement to every drive.
In summary, replacing your vehicle’s exhaust system with an aftermarket alternative offers various benefits. You’ll experience enhanced engine performance, a more assertive and sporty sound, and potentially even improved fuel efficiency. While it’s an investment, the benefits you’ll reap from this upgrade can truly elevate your driving experience.
Exploring the Different Types of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems
The world of aftermarket exhaust systems can be a labyrinth of options, but understanding the differences between the various types is the first step in making an informed decision. For the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, there are mainly three types of aftermarket exhausts: the axle-back, the cat-back, and the header-back exhaust systems.
Starting from the rearmost part of the exhaust, the axle exhaust system replaces the muffler and the pipe that connects to the rear axle. This system is usually the most cost-effective and simplest to install. It delivers a noticeable change in sound, making your car’s exhaust note deeper and more aggressive.
Moving a step forward, the cat exhaust system replaces everything from the catalytic converter to the muffler. This includes the ‘cat’ itself, the pipe, and the muffler. This type of system offers both sound and performance enhancements as it reduces backpressure and enhances exhaust flow. It’s a popular choice among car enthusiasts as it strikes a balance between cost, ease of installation, and performance gains.
The header-back exhaust system, as the name suggests, replaces everything from the header to the muffler. This is the most comprehensive and expensive type of system, but it also offers the greatest performance benefits. It’s typically made of high-quality stainless steel or titanium, ensuring durability and weight reduction.
Ultimately, the type of aftermarket exhaust you choose will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. It’s always best to research thoroughly, read reviews, and consult with experts before making a decision.
Conclusion: Unleashing the Potential of Your Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ with an Aftermarket Exhaust
In conclusion, installing an aftermarket exhaust on your Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ can significantly enhance the performance and sound of your vehicle. Be it an axle-back, cat-back, or header-back system, each offers their unique benefits and can transform your car’s driving experience.
By reducing backpressure and improving exhaust flow, an aftermarket exhaust allows your engine to breathe better, resulting in more efficient combustion. This means quicker acceleration, better throttle response, and, under certain conditions, improved fuel economy. Moreover, the use of high-quality materials like stainless steel or titanium ensures durability and weight reduction.
In terms of sound, an aftermarket exhaust gives your vehicle a deeper, more aggressive note. It’s an upgrade that not only enhances the driving experience but also adds personality to your car. Remember, a well-chosen exhaust system can make your vehicle sound just as good as it performs.
Therefore, while it may require an investment, the multitude of benefits an aftermarket exhaust offers makes it a worthwhile upgrade for any car enthusiast. Whether you crave a throatier growl, improved acceleration, or just want to push your Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ beyond its factory limits, an aftermarket exhaust system can make a significant difference. After all, it’s all about enjoying the ride to the fullest.
