The Subaru BRZ, now equipped with the 2.4-liter FA24 flat-four engine (as seen in the second-generation models), has become a darling of the affordable sports car world. Factory-rated at 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, the FA24 responds exceptionally well to exhaust modifications. Upgrading the exhaust system not only frees up restricted airflow but also sharpens throttle response and carves out a more engaging soundtrack. For owners seeking real-world power gains, two names rise to the top: MagnaFlow and Akrapovic. Both brands deliver proven performance, but they take very different approaches in terms of materials, tuning philosophy, and sound character. In this comparison, we dissect the power gains, torque curves, weight savings, and overall driving experience each exhaust brings to the BRZ FA24.

The Role of Exhaust Performance in the FA24

Before diving into specific brands, it is essential to understand how an aftermarket exhaust system improves the FA24’s output. The factory exhaust is a compromise designed for noise regulations, cost targets, and a broad consumer base. It typically incorporates restrictive catalytic converters, mufflers, and narrow tubing that create excessive backpressure at higher engine speeds. By replacing these components with larger-diameter pipes, high-flow catalytic converters or test pipes, and free-flowing mufflers, the engine can expel exhaust gases more efficiently.

On a naturally aspirated flat-four like the FA24, exhaust scavenging is critical. The pressure waves in the exhaust stream help pull fresh air into the cylinders on the intake stroke. A properly designed aftermarket system maintains or even enhances this scavenging effect, boosting volumetric efficiency across the RPM range. Typical results on the FA24 are peak horsepower gains between 10 and 20 wheel horsepower, accompanied by meaningful increases in mid-range torque and a noticeably more responsive throttle pedal. These gains are consistent across both cat-back (axle-back or turbo-back) and full header-back systems, though headers yield the largest improvements.

Upgrading the exhaust also sets the stage for further modifications. An aftermarket exhaust reduces backpressure enough to allow more aggressive ECU tuning, and it pairs naturally with cold-air intakes, intake manifolds, and header replacements. For many owners, a quality exhaust is the first step in a comprehensive naturally aspirated build or the foundation for future forced induction.

MagnaFlow Exhaust Systems for the BRZ FA24

Product Range and Features

MagnaFlow offers a variety of exhaust systems for the second-generation BRZ, including cat-back systems, axle-back systems, and full header-back configurations. Their most popular option for the FA24 is the stainless steel cat-back system (part number 19306 or similar), which uses 2.5-inch mandrel-bent tubing and a straight-through, free-flowing muffler design. MagnaFlow pipes are constructed from 100% stainless steel—both the piping and the muffler shells—ensuring long-term corrosion resistance, even in regions with salted winter roads.

One standout feature of MagnaFlow’s design is the incorporation of a dual-wall, polished tip for a factory-quality appearance. The system is a direct bolt-on replacement, requiring no cutting or welding, and retains all factory hangers and mounting points. MagnaFlow also offers a direct-fit high-flow catalytic converter (for models requiring emissions compliance) that complements their cat-back units, further reducing backpressure while keeping the check engine light off.

Dyno Results and Power Gains

On a stock BRZ FA24, a MagnaFlow cat-back exhaust system consistently delivers gains of up to 10–12 horsepower at the wheels and around 8–10 lb-ft of torque, with the most significant improvements occurring between 3,500 and 5,500 RPM. Independent dyno testing from several shops confirms that the MagnaFlow system shifts the torque curve upward and flattens the infamous FA24 torque dip (a slight flattening around 3,000–4,000 RPM). The peak power gains are modest but meaningful, especially when paired with a cold-air intake and an ECU tune, where total gains can exceed 15 horsepower.

Where MagnaFlow truly excels is in low-end and mid-range torque. Drivers report a noticeable increase in pull from idle to 4,500 RPM, making everyday driving more responsive. The throttle tip-in is sharper, and the car feels more eager to rev out. For autocross or street use, this torque improvement is arguably more valuable than a high-RPM peak gain.

Build Quality and Sound Profile

MagnaFlow’s stainless steel construction is robust and durable. The welds are consistent, and the flanges are thick, eliminating leaks over time. The muffler technology uses a perforated core and sound-absorbing material to reduce drone while allowing a deep, aggressive exhaust note. The BRZ FA24 with a MagnaFlow system produces a bass-heavy rumble at idle, a mellow cruise tone, and a full-throated roar under full throttle. There is minimal drone at highway speeds, making it a strong choice for daily drivers who want an exciting sound without fatigue.

Owners often describe the MagnaFlow sound as “muscular” and “American muscle-style,” which complements the boxer engine’s unique note. The exhaust is louder than stock but not obnoxious, and it draws attention without being intrusive.

Akrapovic Exhaust Systems for the BRZ FA24

Titanium vs. Stainless Steel

Akrapovic is synonymous with premium motorsport-grade exhausts. For the Subaru BRZ FA24, they offer a titanium cat-back system (part number S5520T31 or equivalent) that leverages thin-wall titanium alloy for the main piping and muffler bodies. The system saves approximately 10–12 pounds compared to the stock exhaust, an impressive weight reduction that directly improves handling and acceleration. Akrapovic also offers stainless steel versions for budget-conscious buyers, but the titanium variant is the flagship.

The titanium system is handcrafted using TIG welding and features a lightweight carbon-fiber tailpipe finisher. Every component is precision-machined to fit perfectly, and the system is fully bolt-on. Akrapovic’s engineering includes a valve control (for vehicles with factory active exhaust flaps) that allows the driver to switch between quiet and sport modes—a feature that MagnaFlow does not offer on its standard cat-back units.

Power and Weight Benefits

Akrapovic’s claims are backed by extensive dyno testing. Their titanium cat-back system for the FA24 delivers up to 15–18 wheel horsepower gains and 12–14 lb-ft of torque improvement over stock. The peak gains are recorded between 5,000 and 7,000 RPM, which translates to a stronger top-end pull. Combined with the weight reduction, the power-to-weight ratio of the BRZ improves noticeably.

The torque curve under the Akrapovic system shows a consistent increase from 2,500 RPM to redline, with a particularly strong mid-range surge. The exhaust scavenging is optimized for the FA24’s boxer layout, ensuring that each exhaust pulse efficiently clears the cylinder. Many tuners report that the Akrapovic system allows for more aggressive ignition timing and fuel mapping, yielding additional gains when an ECU remap is added.

Because of the lighter weight, the BRZ feels more nimble and responsive to steering inputs. The reduction in unsprung mass (the exhaust is partly mounted to the vehicle structure but still affects overall mass) contributes to better suspension articulation and quicker transient response.

Sound Characteristics

Akrapovic is renowned for a refined, exotic sound. The titanium system produces a sharper, more metallic tone compared to MagnaFlow’s deep rumble. At idle, it is slightly louder than stock and has a crisp, almost F1-like quality. Under hard acceleration, the exhaust note builds into a scream that fills the cabin without being overpowering. The drone is minimal, and the active exhaust feature (if retained) allows for a subdued stealth mode when desired.

The titanium construction also produces a unique resonance that changes with engine temperature—a characteristic that some enthusiasts find addictive. While the sound is less aggressive than MagnaFlow’s, it is more sophisticated and European in character.

Head-to-Head Comparison: MagnaFlow vs. Akrapovic for the BRZ FA24

Power and Torque Delivery

Direct dyno comparisons are rare, but aggregated data from multiple shops shows clear trends. MagnaFlow systems favor low-end and mid-range torque, with peak horsepower gains around 10–12 hp. Akrapovic systems shift the powerband upward, offering higher peak gains (15–18 hp) but sacrificing a small amount of low-end grunt compared to MagnaFlow. For daily drivers and autocross, the MagnaFlow torque advantage may be more beneficial. For track use where sustained high RPM is the norm, Akrapovic’s top-end output provides a measurable edge.

Weight and Material Durability

Akrapovic’s titanium system saves 10–12 pounds, an undeniable performance benefit. MagnaFlow’s stainless steel is heavier but extremely durable; it will never rust or crack under normal use. In regions with road salt, stainless steel offers better long-term corrosion resistance than titanium (titanium can corrode in chloride-rich environments if not properly anodized). For the typical garage-kept BRZ, both materials will outlast the vehicle.

Price and Value

Price is a significant differentiator. A MagnaFlow cat-back system retails between $800 and $1,100, offering excellent value for the gains and build quality. Akrapovic’s titanium cat-back price is substantially higher, typically $2,200–$2,800. The value proposition of Akrapovic includes a premium weight reduction, exotic materials, and potential for higher peak power with tuning. For owners who prioritize bench-racing numbers and track performance, the investment may be worthwhile. For most daily drivers, MagnaFlow delivers solid performance at a fraction of the cost.

Sound Notes

Sound preference is subjective. MagnaFlow is loud, deep, and aggressive—ideal for those who want the BRZ to sound powerful. Akrapovic is sharper, more refined, and offers adjustable volume. Neither system produces criminal levels of noise, but both will attract attention. Installation is straightforward for both, though Akrapovic’s active valve integration may require a little more wiring (if equipped on the vehicle).

Installation and Tuning Considerations

Both systems are direct bolt-on, meaning they can be installed in a driveway with basic hand tools in about two hours. No welding or modifications are necessary. However, to fully unlock the potential of any aftermarket exhaust, an ECU tune is highly recommended. The factory ECU will adapt to some extent, but a custom tune or off-the-shelf tune (like those from OpenFlash, ECUTek, or COBB) will optimize ignition timing, fuel mixtures, and throttle mapping for the increased flow. With a tune, MagnaFlow gains can reach 15 hp, and Akrapovic gains can reach 20 hp or more.

Other complementary mods include a cold-air intake (such as from Grimmspeed or Perrin) and a header replacement. The FA24 benefits greatly from a equal-length header, which not only improves power but also changes the engine sound to a higher-pitched, more Subaru-like note. When paired with a cat-back exhaust, a header and tune can yield total gains of 30–40 wheel horsepower, transforming the BRZ into a genuinely quick sports car.

It’s also worth noting that aftermarket downpipes are available for the FA24 (for models without a catalytic converter in the header). A high-flow catted downpipe paired with either exhaust system will further reduce backpressure and increase power, but may require a tune to avoid a check engine light.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the MagnaFlow and Akrapovic exhaust for the BRZ FA24 ultimately comes down to your driving priorities, budget, and sound preference. If you want maximum low-end torque, a deep aggressive note, and an affordable price that leaves room for other mods, MagnaFlow is an excellent choice. If you are a track-day regular who values every ounce of weight saving and top-end horsepower, and you can justify the premium, Akrapovic delivers a world-class exhaust experience.

Both systems are high-quality investments that will significantly enhance the driving pleasure of the BRZ FA24. The key is to match the exhaust to your specific use case—be it daily commuting, autocross, or competitive track use. We recommend consulting with experienced owners on forums like FT86Club’s exhaust section, where real-world feedback can help you decide. And whichever path you choose, you’ll be rewarded with a car that sounds and performs leagues better than stock.

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