Introduction: Why the GR86 Exhaust Matters

The Toyota GR86 has earned a reputation as one of the most engaging sports cars in its price bracket, thanks to its lightweight chassis, precise steering, and naturally aspirated 2.4-liter boxer engine. However, even the most enthusiastic drivers often note that the factory exhaust system leaves something to be desired. The stock setup prioritizes noise regulations and cost savings over sound character and unrestricted flow. This is where the Perrin Exhaust System steps in. It promises to transform the GR86’s auditory presence and unlock measurable power gains without sacrificing daily usability. In this detailed review, we examine every aspect of the Perrin system, from materials and design to real-world performance on the road and track.

Overview of the GR86 Perrin Exhaust System

Perrin Performance, based in Portland, Oregon, has long been a respected name in Subaru and Toyota aftermarket tuning. Their exhaust for the GR86 is a full cat-back system designed to replace everything from the catalytic converter back to the tips. It is offered in multiple configurations, including a resonated version for those who want a slightly more refined tone and a non-resonated version for maximum aggression. Both options share the same core construction: 304 stainless steel throughout, mandrel-bent tubing, and precision TIG welding at every joint. Perrin also offers the choice of a polished stainless or black ceramic-coated finish for the muffler section, allowing owners to match their preferred aesthetic.

The system is engineered to be a direct bolt-on replacement, meaning no cutting, welding, or ECU modifications are required. This simplicity has made it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts who want to upgrade their exhaust in a single afternoon. But beyond the ease of installation, the real question is how it performs and sounds compared to the stock exhaust and other aftermarket options. Let’s break it down.

Key Features and Design Philosophy

Full 3-Inch Mandrel-Bent Piping

The factory GR86 exhaust tapers to smaller diameters at certain points, creating restrictions that hinder exhaust gas flow. Perrin uses a consistent 3-inch diameter throughout the entire system. Mandrel bending ensures that the tubing maintains its full cross-section at every bend, eliminating pinch points. This design reduces backpressure, allowing the boxer engine to exhale more freely. In practice, this translates to improved throttle response and a noticeable bump in peak horsepower, especially in the upper RPM range.

Oval Muffler Canister Design

Rather than using a bulky single muffler, Perrin employs an oval-shaped canister that tucks neatly into the factory underbody contour. This design not only saves ground clearance but also allows for a larger internal volume, which helps control exhaust tone without excessive restriction. The muffler is packed with high-quality acoustic fiber that deadens harsh frequencies while letting the signature boxer rumble shine through. The result is a sound that is aggressive but not obnoxious, with minimal drone at cruising speeds.

Dual Wall Splitter Tips

The exhaust tips are a standout aesthetic feature. Perrin uses 3.5-inch double-walled, angled tips that fill the rear diffuser cutouts perfectly. They are laser-cut and welded for a consistent look, and the double-wall construction prevents heat discoloration on the outer surface. Available in polished stainless or a black ceramic coating, these tips add a purposeful, motorsport-inspired appearance to the rear of the car.

Resonated vs. Non-Resonated Options

Perrin understands that not all drivers want the same volume level. The resonated version includes a Helmholtz-style resonator in the mid-pipe, which cancels out specific frequencies that cause interior drone at highway speeds. This makes the resonated system ideal for daily drivers who cover long distances. The non-resonated version deletes the resonator, resulting in a louder, more raw exhaust note that appeals to weekend track rats and those who prioritize maximum sound over long-trip comfort. Both versions keep the same muffler and tips, so the only difference is in the mid-pipe.

Performance Analysis: Power Gains and Torque Curve

Dyno-Proven Results

To quantify the gains, Perrin and independent tuners have dyno-tested the system on otherwise stock GR86 models. On a typical chassis dynamometer, the Perrin cat-back exhaust produces an additional 8–12 horsepower and 6–9 lb-ft of torque at the wheels, depending on the specific car, ambient conditions, and whether the resonated or non-resonated version is used. While these numbers may seem modest, they represent a meaningful percentage increase over the stock output of roughly 200 horsepower at the crank. More importantly, the torque curve is improved throughout the mid-range, making the car feel more responsive when accelerating out of corners.

How the Gains Are Achieved

The primary mechanism for power gain is reduced backpressure. The stock exhaust has a restrictive muffler and an unnecessary resonator that create turbulence. By smoothing the flow path and eliminating restrictions, the engine can scavenge exhaust gases more effectively, leading to better cylinder filling and combustion efficiency. This is particularly noticeable above 4,000 RPM, where the stock exhaust tends to choke the engine. With the Perrin system, the GR86 pulls harder all the way to the redline, with a more linear power delivery.

Butt Dyno Impressions

Most owners report that the car feels noticeably livelier, especially when merging onto highways or climbing steep grades. The throttle feels sharper, and the engine revs more freely. It is not a transformative power increase, but it does make the driving experience more enthusiastic. For those seeking significant power, combining the Perrin exhaust with a cold air intake and a professional tune can unlock further gains, but the exhaust alone is a worthwhile upgrade for the seat-of-the-pants feel.

Sound Quality: Aggressive Tone That Impresses

Startup and Idle

Cold starts with the Perrin system are a treat. The engine fires up with a deep bark that settles into a low, rumbling idle. The boxer engine’s inherent off-beat note is amplified, giving the car a distinctive character that is nothing like the drone of an inline-four. Inside the cabin, the idle is civilized—no shaking or excessive noise—but pedestrians outside will definitely take notice.

Driving and Revving

Under light throttle, the exhaust remains relatively subdued, producing a subtle growl that is not intrusive for daily commuting. As the revs climb, the tone becomes progressively more aggressive. At wide-open throttle, the system emits a full-throated roar that is both loud and purposeful, without crossing into raspy territory. The non-resonated version has a sharper edge, while the resonated version smooths out the upper frequencies for a more refined sound. Both versions avoid the “tinny” or “can-like” sound that plagues cheap exhausts.

Drone and Highway Cruising

One of the biggest fears with aftermarket exhausts is drone—a low-frequency resonance that intrudes into the cabin at constant RPMs. The Perrin resonated system is excellent in this regard. At 70–80 mph in sixth gear (around 3,000 RPM), there is virtually no drone. The resonator effectively cancels the offending frequency. The non-resonated version does introduce some drone at those speeds, but it remains livable for many drivers. If you do a lot of highway driving, the resonated version is strongly recommended.

Installation Process: A DIY-Friendly Upgrade

Tools and Time Required

Installation of the Perrin exhaust is straightforward and can be completed in 1–2 hours with basic tools. You will need:

  • Socket wrench set (10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm sockets)
  • Jack and two jack stands (or a lift)
  • PB Blaster or similar penetrating oil (for stubborn bolts)
  • Torque wrench (for final tightening)
  • Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step

  1. Raise the rear of the car securely on jack stands.
  2. Spray the exhaust hanger bolts and studs with penetrating oil and let it soak for 10 minutes.
  3. Remove the stock exhaust by unbolting the mid-pipe from the catalytic converter and then unbolting the muffler section. You may need to use a pry bar to pop the rubber hangers loose.
  4. Lift the factory exhaust out from under the car (it is heavy, so have a helper or a second jack handy).
  5. Unbox the Perrin exhaust and loosely fit the mid-pipe and muffler sections together, using the supplied gaskets and hardware.
  6. Bolt the muffler to the hangers, then attach the mid-pipe to the catalytic converter. Do not fully tighten bolts until everything is aligned.
  7. Once the system is positioned correctly, tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications (typically 30–35 ft-lb for the flange bolts, 15 ft-lb for hanger bolts).
  8. Double-check clearance around the rear sway bar, heat shields, and bumper. The Perrin system fits tightly but should not interfere with any components.
  9. Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks. Listen for any rattles or contact sounds, then take the car for a test drive.

Customer Feedback and Community Impressions

Across the GR86 and Subaru BRZ forums, the Perrin exhaust receives consistently high marks. Owners praise the build quality, noting that the welds are clean and the stainless steel finish resists corrosion. One common theme is the balance between sound and drivability: “I wanted something louder than stock but not obnoxious. The resonated Perrin is perfect—it wakes up the car without waking up the neighbors,” wrote a user on a popular GR86 forum. Another reviewer mentioned that the power gains, while modest, are very noticeable during track sessions: “The car keeps pulling where it used to flatten out. Combined with the sound, it makes the whole experience more engaging.”

Some negative feedback exists as well. A handful of owners with the non-resonated version found the interior drone at highway speeds to be fatiguing on long trips. A few also noted that the exhaust tips sit slightly off-center in the bumper cutouts, though this can usually be remedied by adjusting the hanger positions. Overall, the vast majority of buyers are satisfied, and the system holds its value well in the used market.

Comparison With Other GR86 Exhaust Options

The aftermarket for the GR86/BRZ is crowded, so it is worth comparing the Perrin system to its main competitors.

Perrin vs. Invidia N1

The Invidia N1 is a popular choice for those who want maximum volume. It is significantly louder than the Perrin, with a deeper, more aggressive tone. However, it also produces more drone and can be tiresome on the highway. The Perrin system is more refined and better suited for daily driving. Build quality is comparable, but the Perrin’s resonated option gives it an edge in versatility.

Perrin vs. AWE Touring Edition

AWE’s Touring Edition is another well-regarded exhaust that uses a drone-canceling 180-degree technology. It offers a similar balance of sound and comfort to the Perrin resonated system, with slightly different tuning. The AWE is a bit more expensive and uses a single larger muffler, while the Perrin has a more traditional dual-muffler layout. Both are excellent, but the Perrin tends to be more affordable and easier to install.

Perrin vs. Borla S-Type

Borla’s S-Type exhaust is known for its high-quality sound and performance. It is louder than the Perrin resonated but quieter than the non-resonated. The Borla uses a patented technology to reduce drone, similar to the Perrin resonator. In side-by-side comparisons, the Borla has a slightly deeper tone at idle, while the Perrin is more aggressive under full throttle. Borla generally commands a higher price, making the Perrin a better value proposition.

Maintenance and Warranty

One of the advantages of a stainless steel exhaust is low maintenance. The Perrin system is designed to withstand years of exposure to heat, moisture, and road salt without rusting. The tips can be cleaned with automotive polish to maintain their shine. The muffler packing inside the canister may degrade over time (typically after 50,000–100,000 miles), which can cause the exhaust to become slightly louder and more raspy. If this occurs, the muffler can be repacked by a muffler shop or replaced under Perrin’s warranty. Perrin backs their exhaust with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, which gives peace of mind to buyers. It is worth noting that the warranty covers the original purchaser only, so keep your receipt.

Final Verdict: Is the Perrin Exhaust Worth It?

The GR86 Perrin Exhaust System delivers exactly what it promises: an aggressive, sports-car-inspired tone and measurable power gains that enhance the driving experience. Its thoughtful design, high-quality materials, and easy installation make it a standout in the aftermarket scene. The availability of resonated and non-resonated versions ensures that there is an option for every type of driver, from daily commuters to weekend warriors. While it is not the cheapest exhaust on the market, the combination of performance, sound, and build quality offers strong value for money.

If you are looking to unlock the true character of your GR86 without going overboard, the Perrin system deserves a place at the top of your shortlist. It transforms the car from a polite coupe into a snarling, engaging machine that rewards every blip of the throttle.

For more information, visit the official product page at Perrin Performance or read owner impressions on the GR86 Owner’s Club forum. For professional tuning support, consider reaching out to Delicious Tuning for a custom ECU calibration that maximizes the exhaust’s potential.