The way I've been thinking about it is, say you're trying to blow through a 15ft long straw. If you make the last 8 feet bigger in diameter, it isn't going to make initially blowing through the straw any easier is it?

So is adding a catback to a otherwise stock exhaust really helping any?
Just something I thought about. I'm interested in hearing the responses.

 

Yes, it will help. I'm guessing you're asking about your V6, but I have seen on numerous V8 cars, that going from the stock 2.75" pipe and muffler to the aftermarket 3" pipe and muffler is worth 10 horsepower.

 

I would have to say no it would not make a difference.

 

I didnt see a difference, so its all for the ears bud.

 

Thanks guys. Thats what I always thought. And yeah, I was asking about my V6.

 

Yes, "especially" if you plan on upgrading your power output (as most of us eventually do). If that's true, don't spend twice. Buy the catback now. The following is from Hot Rod:

The advantage to a cat-back system or aftermarket muffler is that it increases horsepower and gas mileage while giving hot rods the deep throaty rumble we all love. Very few products will give you so much performance for so little money. Note, however, that while some companies claim that their mufflers "make" horsepower, what is happening in reality is the muffler is increasing the scavenging abilities of the headers or exhaust manifold. By creating a low-pressure area in the muffler, the velocity of the exhaust flow increases and this increases the scavenging in a cylinder head. Better scavenging increases the combustion efficiency of the engine and that is what increases horsepower.

JamesC

 

Never thought of that part before...