Borla S-Type Exhaust for the Nissan GT-R: Classic Sound Meets Measurable Power Gains

The Nissan GT-R has long been a benchmark in the world of high-performance sports cars. Its twin-turbocharged V6 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system deliver blistering acceleration and track-ready handling straight from the factory. Yet for many owners, the factory exhaust system leaves something to be desired—both in terms of auditory excitement and outright power potential. Enter the Borla S-Type exhaust system. Designed specifically for the R35 GT-R, this exhaust strikes a rare balance: it amplifies the engine’s natural character with a deep, classic exhaust note while delivering real, dyno-verified power increases. Whether you’re looking to sharpen throttle response, drop a few pounds, or simply make your GT-R sound the way it should, the Borla S-Type offers a compelling upgrade.

What Sets the Borla S-Type Apart?

The Borla S-Type isn’t just another aftermarket exhaust—it’s the result of decades of exhaust engineering and extensive R&D. Designed to preserve the GT-R’s daily-driver civility while unlocking a more aggressive personality, the S-Type occupies a sweet spot between the milder Touring system and the race-oriented ATAK system. Its key differentiators include materials, design philosophy, and sound tuning that target enthusiasts who want performance without compromise.

Construction and Materials

Every Borla S-Type exhaust is constructed from T-304 austenitic stainless steel—the highest grade commonly used in automotive exhausts. This material offers superior corrosion resistance, high-temperature durability, and a brilliant finish that resists discoloration over time. The system uses mandrel-bent tubing to maintain consistent internal diameter through every bend, ensuring minimal flow restriction. All welds are full-penetration TIG-welded, a process that provides leak-free joints and long-term structural integrity. Unlike many competitors, Borla employs a patented aircraft-alloy hanger system that isolates vibration and prevents transmission of drone into the cabin.

Core Design Features

  • True dual exhaust layout: The S-Type retains the GT-R’s factory dual-exit design with a symmetrical rear section, maintaining the aggressive look of the stock unit.
  • Straight-through muffler technology: Borla’s proprietary straight-through perforated core mufflers reduce backpressure while shaping the sound to eliminate harsh frequencies.
  • CNC-machined flanges: Precision-machined flanges and included gaskets ensure a perfect, leak-free seal at every joint.
  • Low-profile canisters: The muffler bodies are designed to maximize ground clearance and avoid scraping on low-slung GT-Rs.

Sound Tuning Philosophy

Borla’s “S-Type” designation refers to a sound profile that is more aggressive than stock but not as extreme as a straight-pipe or race exhaust. The system produces a deep, throaty growl at idle and low rpm, building into a purposeful roar under full throttle. At cruising speeds, the exhaust settles into a refined hum with minimal interior drone—a critical factor for those who daily drive their GT-R. The sound is often described as a “classic V6 muscle” tone, reminiscent of older Japanese sports cars but with modern refinement. This balanced character comes from extensive sound-wave analysis and iterative tuning of internal chamber dimensions.

Performance Gains: More Than Just Noise

While improved sound is the most immediately noticeable change, the Borla S-Type also delivers measurable performance gains. Independent dyno testing has shown increases of up to 15–20 wheel horsepower and 15–18 lb-ft of torque on otherwise stock GT-Rs. When combined with a tune or bolt-on intake modifications, gains can exceed 30 horsepower. These numbers come from three primary factors:

Exhaust Flow Optimization

The factory GT-R exhaust is a study in compromise—it must meet global noise regulations, pass emissions, and fit within tight chassis constraints. The result is a system with small-diameter tubing, restrictive mufflers, and multiple catalytic converters that choke high-rpm flow. The Borla S-Type increases pipe diameter from the factory’s 2.25-inch to 2.5-inch (with 3-inch collector sections in key areas), significantly reducing backpressure. This allows the turbochargers to spool more efficiently and the engine to breathe freely past 5,500 rpm, where stock systems often become restrictive.

Weight Reduction

The Borla S-Type weighs approximately 15–20 pounds less than the stock exhaust system. While this is not a dramatic reduction on a car that tips the scales at over 3,800 pounds, unsprung weight and mass located behind the rear axle matter for handling and rotational inertia. Every pound saved from the exhaust contributes to quicker acceleration, improved throttle response, and reduced stress on the rear suspension components. For track-oriented builds, combining the S-Type with a lightweight titanium system can yield further benefits, but the stainless-steel Borla remains a robust choice for street-driven cars.

Dyno-Proven Results

Independent testing on a Dynojet chassis dynamometer has verified the following typical gains for a bolt-on Borla S-Type exhaust on a stock-tuned 2012–2021 Nissan GT-R (approximate figures):

  • Peak horsepower: +17 hp at 6,200 rpm (from 545 whp to 562 whp)
  • Peak torque: +14 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm (from 530 lb-ft to 544 lb-ft)
  • Power under curve: +8–12 hp across the 4,500–6,500 rpm band

These gains are consistent across most model years, though earlier 2009–2011 cars with smaller turbos may see slightly lower absolute numbers. When adding a professional ECU tune (e.g., Cobb Accessport or ECUTEK), the exhaust becomes a foundational component that enables even greater power increases from other modifications.

Installation: What to Expect

Installing a Borla S-Type exhaust on a GT-R is a straightforward afternoon project for a competent DIYer with basic tools, but many owners opt for professional installation due to the system’s weight and the tight confines under the car. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Preparation

  • Elevate the vehicle securely on jack stands—do not rely on the factory scissor jack.
  • Allow the exhaust to cool completely to avoid burns.
  • Gather tools: 12mm, 14mm, and 17mm sockets, extensions, a breaker bar, penetrating oil (for stubborn bolts), and a torque wrench.

Removing the Factory Exhaust

Start by unbolting the rear muffler section from the mid-pipe connections (four bolts total). You will need to detach the exhaust hangers from their rubber isolators using a pry bar or specialized hanger removal tool. On R35 GT‑Rs, the center section of the stock exhaust is one large piece that can be tricky to maneuver out—lowering the rear subframe slightly (by removing the two rear subframe bolts) can provide the needed clearance. With the old system free, inspect the condition of the exhaust gaskets at the turbo outlet flanges; replace if damaged.

Installing the Borla S-Type

Borla provides a complete system with gaskets, hardware, and a detailed instruction manual. Begin by loosely fitting all sections—start from the front (turbo downpipes connection) and work toward the rear. Using a high-quality anti-seize compound on all threaded connections is recommended to ease future removal. Once all flanges and hangers are aligned, torque bolts to the specified values (typically 30–35 ft-lbs for M10 flanges). Reinstall the rear subframe bolts and lower the car before tightening the exhaust hanger bolts to prevent binding. Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks using a soapy water spray or your hand to feel for escaping gases.

Common Installation Tips

  • An extra set of hands is helpful—the S-Type system is heavy and awkward to align solo.
  • If your GT-R has over 50,000 miles, spray the exhaust flange bolts with penetrating oil the night before to prevent snapping.
  • Consider replacing the turbo outlet gaskets with new OEM units while the system is off—a low-cost step that prevents future oil leaks.
  • After installation, perform a “heat cycle” by driving gently for 20 minutes, then recheck all bolt torques once the system has cooled.

Sound Characteristics in Detail

The Borla S-Type exhaust transforms the auditory character of the GT-R. At startup, the system delivers a brief bark that settles into a low, resonant idle with a subtle rumble. Under light throttle around town, the exhaust remains quiet enough to avoid drawing unwanted attention, yet there’s a pleasant bass note that signals a non-stock system. When you open the taps, the S-Type comes alive—a deep, bellowing roar that builds linearly with revs, trailing off with a crisp burble on lift-off. The tone is free of the “tinny” or “raspy” frequencies common in some aftermarket systems. At highway cruising speeds (70–80 mph), interior noise levels rise only slightly above factory, with no intrusive drone in the 2,000–3,000 RPM range. This makes the S-Type an excellent choice for owners who attend track days but also use their GT-R as a daily driver.

Comparing Borla S‑Type to Other GT‑R Exhaust Options

Understanding where the S-Type fits in the broader landscape helps buyers make an informed decision. Here’s how it stacks up against two common alternatives:

Borla S-Type vs. Stock

  • Sound: Stock is muted and non-engaging; S-Type adds classic aggression without being obnoxious.
  • Power: Stock restricts flow; S-Type unlocks 15–20 whp.
  • Weight: S-Type saves ~18 pounds.
  • Price: S-Type is an investment ($1,500–$1,800), but cost per horsepower is competitive.

Borla S-Type vs. ATAK System

  • Sound: ATAK is louder and more aggressive, with a sharper edge; S-Type is deeper and more refined.
  • Drone: ATAK may produce some interior drone at certain RPMs; S-Type is drone-free.
  • Power: Both systems produce similar gains—ATAK’s advantage is purely acoustic, not flow.
  • Best for: Track-focused drivers who want maximum volume choose ATAK; daily driver/weekend track enthusiasts prefer S-Type.

Borla S-Type vs. Custom or Generic Systems

  • Fitment: Borla uses jig-mounting and vehicle-specific flanges for perfect fit; cheap systems often require bending or spacers.
  • Warranty: Borla offers a lifetime warranty to the original owner; generic systems typically have no warranty.
  • Resale value: A branded system like Borla can add to a car’s resale value; generic systems may reduce it.

Before purchasing, it’s important to understand local regulations. The Borla S-Type exhaust does not include replacement catalytic converters or downpipes—it retains the stock catalytic converter locations and, on most model years, the factory secondary catalytic converters. This means the system is emissions-legal in most states that follow federal EPA standards. However, if you remove or modify the primary cats (e.g., with a catless downpipe), the vehicle will no longer pass a visual emissions inspection in states like California, New York, or Maine. Borla does sell a specifically CARB-legal version for some applications, but for the GT-R, the S-Type itself is not CARB-approved—only the stock cats ensure legality. Always check your local laws before installation.

Long-Term Durability and Warranty

Borla stands behind its products with a one-year, unlimited-mileage warranty against defects in materials and workmanship—and a limited lifetime warranty on the exhaust system (original buyer only, proof of purchase required). The T-304 stainless steel construction resists rust and pitting even in harsh winter climates where road salt is used. With proper care, a Borla exhaust can outlast the vehicle. Owners in corrosive environments should periodically inspect hangers and welds, but reports of failures are extremely rare. Borla also offers a “Core” replacement program: if the system is ever damaged in an accident, you can purchase a replacement at a reduced cost.

Customer Feedback and Real-World Impressions

GT-R forums and review sites overwhelmingly praise the Borla S-Type for its build quality and sound refinement. Common themes from owner reviews include:

  • “The perfect daily exhaust.” Many owners note that the system is quiet enough for early morning cold starts not to anger neighbors, yet thrilling when driving aggressively.
  • “Noticeable seat-of-the-pants gain.” Drivers report improved mid-range pull and faster spool, especially when paired with a tune.
  • “Zero leaks, perfect fit.” The precision flanges eliminate the need for additional sealers or clamps—a stark contrast to some budget systems that require custom bending.
  • “Great sound without drone.” This is the most frequently cited positive. Even at sustained highway speeds, interior conversation remains easy.

One owner on a GT-R forum wrote: “I’ve had three different exhausts on my R35. The Borla S-Type is the only one I’ve kept for more than a year. It sounds like a proper sports car should—mean when you want it, civil when you don’t. And the power gain is real; my butt dyno says it pulls harder from 4k to redline.”

Who Should Buy the Borla S-Type?

This exhaust is ideal for the GT-R owner who wants a significant upgrade in sound and performance without sacrificing daily usability. If you fall into any of these categories, the S-Type is a strong contender:

  • You enjoy spirited back-road driving and occasional track days but also commute in your GT-R.
  • You value build quality and are willing to pay for a system that will last the life of the car.
  • You prefer a deep, muscular exhaust note over a scream or rasp.
  • You plan to add a tune or other bolt-on modifications later and want a exhaust that flows enough to support 600+ whp.

Conversely, if your only goal is maximum decibel level, the Borla ATAK or a catless setup may be more satisfying. But for the vast majority of R35 owners seeking a balanced, high-quality exhaust, the Borla S-Type is a proven choice.

Final Verdict

The Borla S-Type exhaust for the Nissan GT-R successfully delivers on its promise: classic sound with a notable power increase. Its T-304 stainless construction, mandrel-bent tubing, and drone-free acoustic tuning make it one of the finest bolt-on exhaust systems available for the R35. With a full-throttle roar that commands attention and a polite demeanor at cruising speeds, it elevates every drive. Combined with a 15–20 horsepower gain and weight savings, the S-Type represents a meaningful performance upgrade that retains the car’s character rather than overwriting it. For owners who demand the best from their GT-R—both on the road and the track—the Borla S-Type is an investment that pays dividends in driving enjoyment every time you turn the key.

Related Resources:

Learn more about Borla performance exhausts at Borla Performance Industries. For dyno charts and owner install guides, visit the GT-R Heritage Forum. Check out Cobb Tuning for compatible ECU tuning solutions that maximize exhaust upgrades.