Stock Exhaust Systems vs. Cat Back Exhaust Systems
Cat back exhaust systems are known for using pipes that are larger in diameter. While the exhaust often uses narrow pipes, the larger pipes and mandrel-bent tubing used in cat back exhaust systems help improve the flow. The exhaust gas then comes out with less back pressure at the manifold of the engine, and this translates to breathing efficiency. This modification also enhances the engine note, for that characteristic growl. Aside from a better-sounding growl, this also gives more power to your engine with increased torque and horsepower because of the better flow.
When a cat back exhaust system is installed, it may also result in better fuel economy. This is because the engine exerts less effort in trying to emit exhaust gases that will flow through the pipes. This decreases the engine’s total load. Most cat back exhaust systems come with a rear-pipe, muffler, and resonator. The components, however, may vary per make and model. In some systems, the parts used include the X-pipe, mid-pipe, or Y-pipe.
