Camaro and Firebird: Catback Exhaust Reviews

A catback exhaust system can let your Camaro or Firebird to breathe freely, allowing the gasses to exist your engine with no restrictions.

By Bassem Girgis - February 25, 2016

This article applies to the Camaro or Firebird (1990-2002).

As the name implies, the catback portion of your Camaro or Firebird's exhaust is the last six or so feet of exhaust piping, after the downstream catalytic converters. The stock catback on your Camaro or Firebird is quite restrictive, especially in terms of decibels. While there are some power gains to be had by going aftermarket, the biggest upgrade is definitely measured by the sound. If you're looking to up the ante, in terms of curb appeal, upgrading your catback is a good way to impress/potentially scare pedestrians.

Cat Back Exhaust

Bassani
Magnaflow
SLP Loudmouth
Price
$665 $659 $492
Diameter

2.5"

2.5"

2.5"

Finish
Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel
Dual Outlet
Yes Yes Yes
Fitment
Direct Direct Fit Direct
Sound
Medium Low High
Best Quality: Magnaflow

Best Value: SLP Loudmouth

Bassani

camaro firebird 4th gen f body LS1 bassani catback exhaust

Price – $665

Diameter – 2.5"

Finish – Stainless Steel

Dual – Yes

Fitment – Direct

Sound – Medium

Forum enthusiasts have claimed this system showed immediate increase in torque and horsepower. This stainless steel product comes in a 2.5" diameter, which is perfectly fine for a naturally aspirated LS engine build. When you purchase this product, it will come with a 3" pipe tips, which are also polished stainless steel. This system will add a nice tone to your car, nothing too loud, but other cars will know there is something different about your car. This comes with a lifetime warranty, so put it on, and don't worry about corrosion or blown out mufflers. Some customers have claimed that the exhaust tips stick out a little too much. Recommended if you're looking for a reputable company with a great warranty.

Magnaflow

camaro firebird 4th gen f body LS1 magnaflow catback exhaust

Price – $659

Diameter – 2.5"

Finish – Stainless Steel

Dual – Yes

Fitment – Direct

Sound – Low

This product is one of the easiest to install. The Magnaflow exhaust is assembled with slip joints and clamps, making for an easy at home DIY. This kit also offers 2.5" piping, along with 3.5" tips. It gives your car a smooth tone, more on the quiet side, but when you put the pedal to the floor, you will get your money's worth. This stainless steel made product will look the same for years to come; it's designed to withstand the heat and whatever abuse you throw its way. Some customers claimed their exhausts came with less nuts than they needed, which meant they had to use their old ones. If that's the only problem you will face with this product, then you're still in for a treat. Recommended if you're looking for a good product with a great tone.

SLP Loudmouth

camaro firebird 4th gen f body LS1 SLP loudmouth catback exhaust

Price – $492

Diameter – 2.5"

Finish – Stainless Steel

Dual – Yes

Fitment – Direct

Sound – High

Like the other competitors, this system comes with 2.5" pipes and 3.5" tips. Don't let the lower price fool you, this exhaust has one of the best tones on our list. Some have claimed it's loud enough, while most swear drivers will get out of your way quickly. This exhaust comes with a resonator, which you can remove and install easily depending on your driving needs. So if you want to keep it quiet for a week or two, you just install it, and when you're feeling wild, just remove it. This is designed to fit identically like the stock system, which means there is zero modification needed. As the name implies, if you're looking to scare those Mustangs, this is the exhaust for you. Recommended if you're looking for a great system without spending too much money.

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