Should I use an aftermarket exhaust?

While keeping a Ferrari in perfectly stock condition is cherished by some owners, others prefer to modify their cars. A popular modification among Ferrari owners is the fitting of an aftermarket exhaust system. Prices and options vary, as do opinions about the improvements offered by these systems. This FAQ will discuss a few of the options available, and will address a few of the benefits and pitfalls of aftermarket exhaust systems.

Advantages
There main advantages of having an aftermarket exhaust system on your Ferrari are: lighter weight, better sound, increased power, and better looks. The weight reduction and increased power can be measured objectively, while sound and looks are completely subjective.

Lighter Weight: The wide majority of the aftermarket exhaust systems for Ferraris are made out of stainless steel, AISI 304 stainless steel to be exact. This type of steel provides for an exhaust that is stronger and more heat resistant than the stock one, while also being considerably lighter. How much lighter depends on the model of Ferrari and the manufacturer of the exhaust. If you're looking to lowering the weight of your Ferrari by any means possible, then an aftermarket exhaust is a good option.

Better Sound: The word "better" is a subjective one. While many Ferrari owners love the roar of a tuned stainless steel exhaust, others find it too loud and abrasive. Aftermarket exhausts are without a doubt louder than stock. They usually make a Ferrari growl more on the low end of the tachometer, and howl or shriek more on the high end. On certain Ferrari models, they tend to make the car sound more like a race car.

Increased Power: There is a fair amount of debate over whether or not an aftermarket exhaust can increase horsepower. The theory offered by the exhaust manufacturers is that since the exhaust provides for a more free flow of air through the system, the engine encounters less resistance and generates more horsepower. Some disagree with this theory. The author of this FAQ has seen printouts from a dyno comparing a Ferrari F355 with a stock exhaust vs. the same F355 with a Tubi aftermarket exhaust. The Tubi-equipped dyno runs showed between 15-18 more HP than the stock exhaust all the way across the power curve.

Better Looks: Some Ferrari owners also believe that an aftermarket exhaust enhances the look of their Ferrari. Stock Ferrari exhausts are usually dull in appearance, while the aftermarket exhausts are usually polished to a high and reflective shine. On some Ferrari models, the exhaust is only visible when the engine cover is open. Others, such as the Testarossa, display the exhaust system through the rear grille, and a shiny aftermarket exhaust is shown off well in this application. As with any cosmetic upgrade to a car, your tastes are the final decision maker as to whether or not it looks good.

Disadvantages
There are a few disadvantages to using an aftermarket exhaust. The primary ones are: concourse deductions, noise, and cost.

Concourse Deductions: By placing an aftermarket exhaust on your Ferrari, you are making an alteration to the car that will deduct originality points in a Ferrari concourse. You will probably only lose 1-2 points, but if keeping your Ferrari 100% original is a concern, then using an aftermarket exhaust may not be for you.

Noise: While some like the sound of a Tubi, others think they are too noisy. Use of an aftermarket exhaust system may cause your car to fall outside of compliance with noise pollution laws.

Cost: A major consideration of an aftermarket exhaust is the cost - and it's the most prohibitive consideration for some Ferrari owners. Systems' prices can range from one thousand to many thousands of dollars. For many, the benefits outweigh the costs, but that is a decision best left up to each owner.

Various Brands Available
There is a wide variety of Ferrari aftermarket exhaust manufacturers, and there are many custom shops that will create one-of-a-kind systems depending on your needs and budget. Some manufacturers focus on early model Ferraris, while others specialize in later models. Probably the most well-known system for Ferraris is made by Tubi-style Italy, and is available from their many distributors around the world. Tubi makes all their stainless steel exhaust systems by hand, and provides the exhausts for the Ferrari Formula 1 team, as well as for most of the 333SP Ferrari race cars used in sports car competitions around the world. Other well-known manufacturers include Stebro, Ansa, and Borla.

If you are looking for a specific brand of exhaust system, check with your local Ferrari dealer or Ferrari Club to see if they can recommend a distributor. Many dealerships may be able to order an exhaust and install it for you.

The Bottom Line
As the author of this FAQ, I've tried to be as objective as possible throughout this article. I have reserved my personal opinion for this final paragraph. I have seen and heard a large variety of aftermarket exhaust systems, and I must admit a strong preference for Tubi exhaust systems - even though they are somewhat more expensive than other brands. I currently have 4 Ferraris, and I have Tubi systems on all of them. The cars feel more powerful, they sound infinitely better with than the stock exhaust, and they look fantastic. I personally feel that they are worth the cost, and I have yet to meet anyone who has put a Tubi exhaust on their Ferrari and regretted it.

Contributions to this FAQ by: Steve Jenkins