Best Performance Header-Back Exhaust Systems of 2026
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Performance Header-Back Exhaust Systems are an upgrade for those looking to increase the power and performance of their vehicle. These systems replace the factory exhaust system from the headers all the way to the back of the vehicle, allowing for better airflow and reduced exhaust restriction. This leads to improved horsepower and torque, as well as a more aggressive exhaust note. These exhaust systems are typically made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel and are designed to fit specific makes and models. Overall, Performance Header-Back Exhaust Systems are a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking to enhance the performance and sound of their vehicle.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 10 Performance Header-Back Exhaust Systems
Flowmaster 17119 Header-back System
The Flowmaster 17119 Header-back System is a performance exhaust system designed to enhance your vehicle's power and provide a moderate to aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone. Made in the USA with mandrel bent 16 gauge tubing, this exhaust system comes with hangers and hardware for easy installation.
Flowmaster 17200 Complete Kits
This product is a header-back exhaust system that includes all the necessary hardware for installation. The kit consists of 3.00 inch tubing, H-pipe, and Super 40 Series Mufflers that create an aggressive and deep exhaust tone. It is designed specifically for 68-72 GM A-Body V-8 models. With this kit, you can improve your vehicle's performance by increasing exhaust flow, reducing backpressure, and enhancing the engine's overall sound.
Flowmaster 817158 Super 44 Series Exhaust System
This header-back exhaust system is made of mandrel bent 16 gauge stainless steel tubing, which is durable and easy to install with included hangers and hardware. It provides an aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone, perfect for Chevy Nova V8 engine drivers who want to make a statement on the road.
Flowmaster 17107 Exhaust System
The Flowmaster Exhaust System is designed to enhance your 64-72 Chevelle with its dual tailpipe exit options, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your vehicle. Installation is a breeze with included hangers and hardware, making it user-friendly for anyone looking to upgrade their exhaust. The system features mandrel-bent 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing, which not only improves durability but also enhances exhaust flow for better performance. Additionally, the extra-long front pipes provide adjustability, ensuring a perfect fit for your car.
Flowmaster Header-back System - Dual Rear Exit
The Flowmaster Header-back System is a mandrel bent 16 Gauge Tubing that offers moderate to aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone. The product includes hangers and hardware for easy installation. The Header-back System is perfect for those who want to upgrade their car's exhaust system and enhance its performance.
Flowmaster 17104 American Thunder Crossmember-Back Exhaust Kit
The Flowmaster American Thunder Exhaust is designed to boost your vehicle's performance and sound. Its H-pipe crossover helps improve engine power and delivers a rich, deep exhaust tone, giving your car a more aggressive sound. The kit comes with hangers and hardware, making installation straightforward and hassle-free for you. Made from durable, mandrel-bent 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing, this exhaust system ensures a long-lasting fit and smooth exhaust flow. Keep in mind, it does not include manifold downpipes or header reducers, so you may need to source those separately for a complete setup.
Flowmaster FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust System
The Flowmaster 717857 FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust System is designed for 2014-18 GM Silverado/Sierra 1500 4.3L, 5.3L V8 2/4WD and 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 (Legacy Only) 5.3L 4WD Extended Cab with a 143.5 & 157.5 in. Wheelbase. This exhaust system kit features 3 in. Tubing and a 4.5 in. Black Ceramic Tip, providing a deep, aggressive exhaust tone while improving exhaust flow and horsepower. This exhaust system is a perfect upgrade for those seeking better performance and sound.
MBRP S7275BLK Exhaust System
The MBRP Black Cat-Back Exhaust is a sleek system that offers you the classic MBRP sound, a durable black power coated finish, high heat black finish warranty for one year, and a performance boost in horsepower and torque. The classic MBRP sound ensures a deep and powerful exhaust note, while the black power coated finish adds a stylish touch to your vehicle. With a high heat black finish warranty for one year, you can enjoy long-lasting quality. The performance boost in horsepower and torque provides you with improved acceleration and power for an enhanced driving experience.
Flowmaster FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust Kit for Ford F-150
The Flowmaster FlowFX Exhaust offers large 4.5-inch black ceramic-coated stainless steel tips that not only look sleek but also resist rust and heat, keeping your truck’s appearance sharp. It produces a deep and powerful sound both inside and outside your vehicle, enhancing your driving experience with a more aggressive tone. The FlowFX muffler uses a straight-through design to improve exhaust flow, which can boost your truck’s performance. Additionally, the mandrel-bent stainless steel tubing ensures smooth bends without restricting airflow, helping maintain power and efficiency. This exhaust system fits using your factory hanger locations, making installation easier and more convenient for you.
Auto Dynasty 4" Catback Exhaust for 2007-2013 Silverado Sierra 1500
The Auto Dynasty Catback Exhaust is designed to fit various 2007-2013 Silverado and Sierra 1500 models, ensuring compatibility with your truck's specific engine and cab type. This system improves your vehicle's performance by increasing exhaust flow, which helps enhance power without losing that satisfying engine sound. Built from durable aluminized steel with precise bends and strong welds, it offers long-lasting resistance to pressure and corrosion. Plus, the installation is quick and straightforward, so you can upgrade your exhaust system and enjoy better performance without a complicated setup process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are performance exhaust headers?
Performance exhaust headers are aftermarket components that increase airflow into the engine and improve the flow of exhaust gas out of the engine. They are designed to enhance performance by optimizing the exhaust system's efficiency, resulting in improved horsepower and torque.
2. What exhaust system gives the most horsepower?
A cat-back exhaust system is known to improve horsepower by enhancing the car's overall performance. By reducing restrictions in the exhaust system, it allows for better airflow, making the engine work more efficiently and resulting in increased horsepower.
3. Is the cat-back performance exhaust system worth it?
Yes, a cat-back performance exhaust system is worth considering if you want to enhance your vehicle's performance and give it a more aggressive look and sound. It is a cost-effective way to improve horsepower and torque while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
4. How much horsepower does performance headers add?
The addition of aftermarket performance headers typically adds around 4 horsepower to a vehicle's engine. While it may not seem like a significant increase, it helps improve the power curve across the board, providing better performance at various RPM ranges.
5. Does a 2 into 1 exhaust increase horsepower?
A 2 into 1 exhaust system can increase performance at low RPMs, benefiting most riders. However, it may hinder top-end performance. This design also promotes scavenging, which helps improve overall engine efficiency and power delivery.
6. How much HP can a full exhaust system add?
The horsepower gain from a full aftermarket performance exhaust system can vary depending on the vehicle. It can provide an additional 2-3 horsepower for some cars, while others may experience a significant increase of up to 50 horsepower. The actual gain will depend on factors such as the engine's design and other modifications.
7. Can having a cat back exhaust be bad for the engine?
While a cat-back exhaust system can improve engine performance by allowing better airflow, it is essential to choose the right size. Going too large in diameter can lead to a buildup of gases and slower exhaust gas exit, resulting in a loss of torque, RPM, and horsepower. It is important to consider the optimal size for your vehicle to avoid any negative impact on engine performance.
During our performance header-back exhaust system research, we found 27 performance header-back exhaust system products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,130 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance header-back exhaust systems list. We found that most customers choose performance header-back exhaust systems with an average price of $547.14.
The performance header-back exhaust systems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance header-back exhaust systems, including Flowmaster, MBRP, Auto Dynasty. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.