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Ford Mustang V6 1994-2004: Cat-Back Exhaust Reviews

There are a few brands of cat-back systems available for your V6. Depending upon your goals, you'll want to make sure you choose the right one before you drop your hard earned money.

By Jeffrey Smith - October 6, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 (1994-2004).

If you are looking for some noticeable horsepower gains and an incredible sound for your Mustang, an aftermarket cat-back system is just what you need. These are exhaust systems that bolt on just behind the catalytic converters that include the mufflers, tail pipe and end pipes. There is a lot of metal here to replace and the price is fairly steep. Just about any component of your exhaust system can be changed out fairly easily on your own terms in your own garage. This will help keep the cost down from having a professional do the job for you. You will not need any special tools, but there may be some cutting involved either with a torch or a mechanical saw. If this sounds over the top for you, by all means, seek out a reputable professional who understands completely the end result you are looking for and get it done. There are two systems no rated here: Borla and Bassani. These systems are made for the V8 GT models only unless some additional significant modifications are made, but they are rated very high for those applications.

Cat-Back Systems

MAC
Magnaflow
Flowmaster
Summit Racing
Price
 $350-$600 $650-$755 $500-$600 $250-$400
Pipe Size

2.5 inch

2.5 inch

2.5 inch

2.5 inch
HP gains
 5-10 10 - 12 5 - 8 2 - 5
Material
 Aluminized Steel Stainless Steel Aluminized steel Aluminized Steel
Sound
 Loud and deep Deeper, but not much louder than stock Very loud and beefy Deep, mellow tones
Best Quality: Magnaflow

Best Value: Summit Racing

MAC

Price – $350-$600

Looks – Dual mufflers compare to the V8 Mustang in sound quality

Performance – Adds 5-10 HP, increases torque and gas mileage

Warranty – Lifetime

MAC cat-back systems are by far the most popular choice among V6 owners for their easy installation and great sound. This is a true bolt-on system with only the hangers as additional parts you may need. The dual exhaust conversion cat-back system will give your V6 as close to a true V8 sound as you can find anywhere. With a modest 5-10 HP gain, these pipes are perfect for the Mustang owner who wants that traditional muscle car sound and a nice boost in performance. Recommended for those who want the quality associated with the MAC brand.

Featured Video: MAC Dual Exhaust Conversion Kit

Magnaflow

Price – $650-$755

Looks – Dual mufflers give a more aggressive, deeper sound

Performance – 10-12 HP gains

Warranty – Lifetime

There are mixed reviews on the Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system from Mustang owners. Almost as many loved the new sound as complained about interior drone. Others will tell you there is no noticeable drone. This system has been consistently reported to offer decent HP gains around 10-12. The fitment has been reported as extremely easy with the need for additional hangers. This is a great system if you are looking to maximize your horses without getting overly loud, but still get a considerable deeper, throatier sound from your pipes. Recommended for those looking for the largest dyno-proven power gains.

Featured Video: MagnaFlow Exhaust Sound

Flowmaster

Price – $500-$600

Looks – More hidden than the others, but the sound is loud and impressive

Performance – Very modest 5-8 HP gains

Warranty – Limited lifetime

If you are looking for an extremely loud and beefier sound, the Flowmaster is the right cat-back system for your Mustang. It has been reported to sound just like the V8 GT version, but even louder than the stock pipes on a GT. The Flowmaster comes with all the parts needed and is an excellent plug and play fitment. The HP gains are nominal for this setup, unless you add on an aftermarket cold air intake and a tuner. Recommended for those looking for some serious decibels.

Featured Video: Flowmater 40s Exhaust

Summit Racing

Price – $250-$400

Looks – Clean unimpressive look, mellow tones

Performance – 2-5 HP

Warranty – 1 year

If you are looking for a more mellow, yet deeper tone, without spending a small fortune, Summit Racing has the cat-back system for you. It will give you more mellow tones, but a little deeper with hardly any drone. The looks of it are not impressive, which might be nice if you don't want the attention of a beefed up Mustang. This is good for the daily driver on a budget who is just looking for a deeper sound. The installation has been reported as not so easy with extra hangers and dampers needed. Recommended for those looking for a value-friendly exhaust solution.

Featured Video: Summit Racing Y-Pipe Dual Exhaust

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