When shopping for performance mufflers, there are many styles and materials to choose from. Whether you prefer mild, moderate, or wake-the-neighbors sound, there are a few things you will need to consider when checking out your options:

Material

If you often travel to or live in an area with high moisture or where road salt is used, you will want a stainless steel muffler. If you live in a drier area, an aluminized steel muffler will work nicely. However, if you do not need corrosion resistance, it should not matter which metal makes up your muffler. It will work great regardless!

Legality

In most cases, mufflers are perfectly street legal. However, if the exhaust volume levels exceed legal limits, they will not pass as being legal. To avoid getting fix-it tickets, it is recommended to refrain from using race mufflers on your street ride.

Size Matters

When it comes to muffler sizes, the smaller the better (or should we say louder)! Mufflers with smaller cases won’t have as many sound reducing baffles inside them.

Type

If you drive a muscle car or street machine, a chambered muffler would be a great pick for you. These types of mufflers provide a throaty performance sound fit for the streets. Turbo mufflers have better noise reduction and are ideal for street applications. Glasspacks are ideal for racing, designed for maximum flow and horsepower. These types of mufflers are a popular choice among street rodders and custom car builders.

Backpressure

All the twists, turns, and holes that the hot exhaust gases are forced through in the muffler ultimately slow down and restrict the gases’ trip toward the tailpipe. This results in increased pressure, forcing the engine to work harder to expel the gas, therefore leading to a reduction in power. Less pressure leads to more power and more sound. Listen to as many mufflers as you can to get a feel of the sound you love!