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The Mitsubishi Evo has long been celebrated for its impressive performance and rally heritage. One of the most popular modifications among enthusiasts is the installation of a performance exhaust system. But how much power do these systems really add? In this article, we will explore the various types of performance exhausts available for the Mitsubishi Evo, their benefits, and the potential power gains they can provide.
Understanding Performance Exhaust Systems
A performance exhaust system is designed to improve the flow of exhaust gases from the engine, which can enhance overall performance. These systems typically consist of larger diameter piping, high-flow catalytic converters, and less restrictive mufflers compared to stock exhausts. The goal is to reduce back pressure and increase horsepower and torque.
Types of Performance Exhausts for Mitsubishi Evo
- Cat-Back Exhaust Systems
- Turbo-Back Exhaust Systems
- Axle-Back Exhaust Systems
- Header and Downpipe Upgrades
Cat-Back Exhaust Systems
Cat-back exhaust systems replace the exhaust components from the catalytic converter back to the tailpipe. These systems are popular because they provide a good balance of performance and sound enhancement while maintaining emissions compliance.
Turbo-Back Exhaust Systems
Turbo-back systems replace the entire exhaust system from the turbocharger to the rear of the vehicle. This type of system typically offers the most significant power gains but may require additional tuning to optimize performance.
Axle-Back Exhaust Systems
Axle-back systems only replace the components from the rear axle to the exhaust tip. While these systems can improve sound, they typically offer minimal power gains compared to cat-back or turbo-back systems.
Header and Downpipe Upgrades
Upgrading the headers and downpipe can also contribute to increased performance. Headers improve exhaust flow from the engine, while a high-performance downpipe reduces back pressure from the turbocharger.
Potential Power Gains from Performance Exhausts
The power gains from a performance exhaust can vary significantly based on the type of system, supporting modifications, and tuning. On average, enthusiasts can expect:
- Cat-Back Systems: 5-15 horsepower increase
- Turbo-Back Systems: 15-30 horsepower increase
- Axle-Back Systems: 2-5 horsepower increase
- Header and Downpipe Upgrades: 10-20 horsepower increase
Factors Affecting Power Gains
Several factors can influence the actual power gains achieved with a performance exhaust:
- Engine Modifications: Additional upgrades like a high-performance intake, turbocharger, or engine tuning can maximize the benefits of a new exhaust system.
- Tuning: Proper tuning is essential to ensure that the engine runs efficiently with the new exhaust setup.
- Brand and Quality: The manufacturer and quality of the exhaust system can also impact performance. Higher-quality systems often provide better fitment and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, performance exhaust systems can provide a noticeable boost in power for the Mitsubishi Evo. While the actual gains depend on the type of system and other modifications, upgrading to a performance exhaust is a popular and effective way to enhance the driving experience. Whether you’re looking for improved sound, increased horsepower, or both, there’s a performance exhaust option available to suit your needs.