If you’re looking for a way to make your C5 Corvette standout, upgrading the exhaust system is an excellent place to start. The right exhaust can produce an aggressive growl that matches the vehicle's sporty look, and it can also improve performance. However, before making a purchase, there are some essential factors Corvette enthusiasts need to consider.
First, it's vital to understand the primary motivation you have for upgrading your exhaust. Is it for improved sound, added horsepower or just an aesthetic touch? Once you establish that, brainstorm what features you would like to have, such as stainless steel construction, a polished finish, or a large diameter outlet. It's also important to assess how much you're willing to spend.
Secondly, before making a purchase, research is necessary. There are various exhaust options available in the market, so it's necessary to find the one that fits your C5 Corvette's model year, engine type, and driving style. Avoid choosing an exhaust that doesn't match your car's specifications. Also, take the time to review the warranty and return policies.
Finally, if you're still unsure about what exhaust to choose, consider asking yourself some questions. What are the most popular exhausts for the C5 Corvette? Which options have the best sound and performance? And which exhaust is the best match for my driving style? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect exhaust for your C5 Corvette.
10 Best Exhaust For C5 Corvette
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The product is ideal for enhancing the performance and sound of a Corvette's exhaust system.
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The product is ideal for enhancing the sound and performance of a vehicle's exhaust system.
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This product is ideal for improving the exhaust of a 1997-2004 Chevy Corvette C5/Z06 LS 5.7L Quad 4.
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The product is ideal for enhancing the sound of a 1997-2004 C5 Corvette's exhaust system.
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This product is ideal for improving the exhaust system of a Chevrolet Corvette C5 LS1 LS6 97-04 with a rolled muffler tip.
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It is ideal for enhancing the performance and sound of 1997-2004 Chevy Corvettes with a V8 5.7L engine.
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The product is ideal for enhancing the appearance of 1997-2004 C5 & Z06 Corvette's exhaust system with a polished stainless steel finish and logo.
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The product is ideal for improving the exhaust system of a Chevy Corvette from 1997-2004.
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The product is ideal for enhancing the performance and sound of a Corvette's exhaust system.
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It is ideal for shielding and insulating the transmission tunnel in a Corvette C5 vehicle.
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1. Borla 140017 Corvette Cat-Back "s-Type" System Exhaust
This product is made of high-quality stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion. The stainless steel used is commonly used in aircraft and is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. This makes the product suitable for high-performance use, as it can withstand the stresses and strains that come with such use without succumbing to fatigue.
The use of high-quality stainless steel also ensures that the product is long-lasting and will not rust or corrode easily, even when exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
The product's resistance to corrosion also makes it easy to maintain, as it can be easily cleaned and does not require frequent replacement or repairs.
- Made of high-quality stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion
- Suitable for high-performance use
- Long-lasting and does not rust or corrode easily
- Easy to maintain and clean
2. Borla 140039 Cat-Back "s-Type" System Exhaust
This product is made of high quality, corrosion resistant stainless steel that is commonly used in aircraft manufacturing. The material used enables the product to withstand high performance usage without incurring fatigue on the parts.
The stainless steel used in this product is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. It is also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for use in different environments and weather conditions.
The high-quality material used in this product ensures that it can withstand tough conditions and high performance uses without breaking or experiencing wear and tear easily. This makes it a reliable and durable option for different applications.
- Made of high-quality, corrosion-resistant stainless steel
- Can withstand high performance usage without incurring fatigue on the parts
- Resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for use in different environments and weather conditions
- Durable and long-lasting performance
3. Srs Catback Exhaust Compatible/replacement For1997-2004 Chevy Corvette C5/z06 Ls 5.7l Quad 4"
Upgrade the performance of your 97-04 Chevy Corvette C5/Z06 LS 5.7L with this high-quality catback exhaust system. Made from full T-304 stainless steel, it features mandrel bent tubing for maximum flow and durability. The direct bolt-on design ensures easy installation without the need for any modifications. The quad 4" dual wall tips give your vehicle a sleek and aggressive look, while the straight-through muffler design provides an aggressive exhaust note without any drone. This system is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Get ready to experience improved horsepower, torque, and throttle response with this catback exhaust system. The full T-304 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance. The mandrel bent tubing allows for maximum flow and reduces backpressure, resulting in improved engine performance. The quad 4" dual wall tips not only look great but also provide a deep and aggressive exhaust note that will turn heads. The direct bolt-on design makes installation a breeze, and the system is backed by a 1-year warranty for your peace of mind.
- Made from full T-304 stainless steel for long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance
- Mandrel bent tubing allows for maximum flow and improves engine performance
- Quad 4" dual wall tips provide a sleek and aggressive look
- Straight-through muffler design produces an aggressive exhaust note without any drone
- Direct bolt-on design ensures easy installation without modifications
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
- – May be slightly more expensive than some other catback exhaust systems on the market
4. Slp 31049 Exhaust System (1997-04 C5 Corvette"loudmouth")
The Corvette LS1 1997-2004 exhaust system is an exceptional upgrade for any Corvette enthusiast. It is constructed entirely from high-quality stainless steel, which ensures durability and longevity. The exhaust system has been designed to provide maximum performance and an enhanced driving experience. The hand-polished mufflers and tips not only look great but also provide a show-quality appearance.
The Corvette LS1 1997-2004 exhaust system is a direct bolt-on replacement for the factory exhaust system. The installation process is straightforward and does not require any special tools or modifications. The exhaust system is designed to fit perfectly and provide a hassle-free installation.
The exhaust system is designed to provide a deep, aggressive exhaust note that will turn heads. The sound is not too loud or too quiet, but just right. The exhaust system has been dyno-tested to ensure maximum performance gains. The result is an increase in horsepower and torque, which translates to improved acceleration and throttle response.
Overall, the Corvette LS1 1997-2004 exhaust system is an outstanding upgrade for any Corvette owner who wants to enhance the performance, sound, and appearance of their vehicle. It is a high-quality exhaust system that is built to last and provides excellent value for money.
- Constructed entirely from high-quality stainless steel for durability and longevity
- Hand-polished mufflers and tips provide a show-quality appearance
- Direct bolt-on replacement for the factory exhaust system
- Designed to provide a deep, aggressive exhaust note that will turn heads
- Dyno-tested to ensure maximum performance gains
- Increase in horsepower and torque translates to improved acceleration and throttle response
5. Chevy Vette Stainless Catback Exhaust System
Upgrade your 97-04 Chevy Corvette C5 LS1/ LS6 with this high-performance catback exhaust. Designed to maximize the smoothest high exhaust air flow rate, this exhaust is dyno-proven to instantly increase 10-20 horsepower or low end torque, as well as engine output and efficiency. It fits 5.7L V8 OHV engine models, including Z06 only.
This catback exhaust is made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel with computerized mandrel-bends, ensuring strength and durability. The TIG welded CNC machine flange provides resistance against pressure and corrosion, making it suitable for harsh driving conditions. The muffler tip type is Quad Rolled Slant Tips, while the muffler exhaust tip diameter is 3.75 inches. The inlet size is 2.5 inches, making it compatible with the aforementioned engine models.
Installation is a breeze, as it is a direct bolt-on with no drilling or modifications needed. Gaskets and hardware are included, ensuring a hassle-free installation process. Upgrade your Chevy Corvette C5 LS1/ LS6 with this high-performance catback exhaust and experience an increase in horsepower, torque, and overall engine efficiency.
- High-performance racing spec design
- Dyno-proven to instantly increase 10-20 horsepower or low end torque
- Increases engine output and efficiency
- Made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel with computerized mandrel-bends for strength and durability
- TIG welded CNC machine flange provides resistance against pressure and corrosion
- Quad Rolled Slant Tips muffler tip type
- Easy to install, direct bolt-on with no drilling or modifications needed
- Gaskets and hardware are included
6. Corvette V8 Stainless Cat Back Exhaust.
The 97-04 Chevy Corvette V8 5.7L is now compatible with this high-quality exhaust system. It is made of T-304 stainless steel, which is durable and strong. The computerized mandrel-bends add to its strength and durability. The TIG welded CNC machine flange helps to resist pressure and corrosion.
This exhaust system is dyno-proven to instantly increase low-end torque by 15-25 horsepower. It has an aggressive deep and smooth tone that ensures smooth exhaust gas flow, which in turn increases engine output and efficiency. The muffler and diameter specifications are 2.25" ID inlet, 2.25" ID main piping, and 4" OD round muffler tip.
The larger pipes, low-restriction mufflers, and tuned resonators of this well-designed performance exhaust system can make a stunning effect on your vehicle. It lowers auto exhaust back pressure and provides a much better sound.
- Made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel
- Computerized mandrel-bends for strength and durability
- TIG welded CNC machine flange resists pressure and corrosion
- Dyno-proven to increase low-end torque by 15-25 horsepower
- Aggressive deep and smooth tone ensures smooth exhaust gas flow
- Increases engine output and efficiency
- Lowers auto exhaust back pressure
- Provides a much better sound
7. Corvette Exhaust Plate – Polished Stainless Steel With C5 Logo : 1997-2004 C5 & Z06
Upgrade the appearance of the rear of your C5 with this affordable yet durable exhaust plate. This high-quality exhaust plate is designed to fit perfectly between the exhaust pipes, filling the blank space and giving your car a polished look. It is made of top-quality stainless steel and includes a colored C-5 logo, adding a touch of elegance to your car's rear. Installing this exhaust plate is a breeze with its simple peel and stick installation process. Measuring 10 3/4 inches wide at the top, 8 1/4 inches wide at the bottom, 5 3/8 inches tall, and 1/16 inches thick, this exhaust plate is built to last.
- Affordable yet high-quality exhaust plate
- Fits perfectly between the exhaust pipes
- Made of top-quality stainless steel
- Includes a colored C-5 logo
- Easy to install with a simple peel and stick process
- – May not fit on all car models
8. Corvette Catback: Sleek Stainless Steel Muffler Upgrade
The catback exhaust system is designed to fit perfectly with the 97-04 Chevy Corvette V8 5.7L. It is engineered to deliver maximum performance with a racing spec design that maximizes the smoothest high exhaust air flow rate. The system is dyno-proven to instantly increase 20-25 horsepower or low-end torque, which in turn improves engine output and efficiency.
The catback exhaust system is made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel, which provides exceptional strength and durability. It also features computerized mandrel-bends that enhance the exhaust system's overall durability. The TIG welded CNC machine flange ensures resistance against pressure and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for any car enthusiast.
Installation is a breeze as it is a direct bolt-on system that requires no drilling or modifications. The system comes with gaskets and hardware, and you can easily install it yourself.
The muffler tip type of the catback exhaust system is quad oval muffler tips. The muffler exhaust tip diameter is 4.25" x 3" oval, while the inlet/outlet size is 2.5"/2". The combination of all these features makes the catback exhaust system an excellent investment for anyone looking to upgrade their Corvette's performance.
- Improves engine output and efficiency
- Easy to install with no drilling or modifications required
- Made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel for exceptional strength and durability
- Resistant to pressure and corrosion with TIG welded CNC machine flange
- Maximizes smoothest high exhaust air flow rate
9. Borla 11744 Corvette Cat-Back "s-Type" System Exhaust
Upgrade your vehicle with the BORLA exhaust system, designed to enhance performance and durability. Made of aircraft quality stainless steel, this exhaust system is corrosion resistant and reduces fatigue during high-performance usage. The patented straight-through and multi-core technology helps to increase horsepower and torque, giving your vehicle a power boost. Precision manufactured using aircraft-quality stainless steel, this exhaust system is built to last and guaranteed to look like new for one million miles. You'll love the split rear exit dual round rolled angle-cut tip, which adds a sleek and stylish look to your vehicle while improving exhaust flow.
Experience the power and performance of the BORLA exhaust system. Made of premium materials, this exhaust system is built to withstand high-performance usage and resist corrosion. The patented straight-through and multi-core technology increases horsepower and torque, giving you a noticeable boost in power. Precision manufactured using aircraft-quality stainless steel, this exhaust system is built to last and will look like new for one million miles. The split rear exit dual round rolled angle-cut tip adds a stylish touch to your vehicle while improving exhaust flow. Upgrade your vehicle with the BORLA exhaust system today!
- Made of corrosion resistant aircraft quality stainless steel
- Patented straight-through and multi-core technology helps increase horsepower and torque
- Precision manufactured using aircraft-quality stainless steel
- Guaranteed to look like new for one million miles
- Includes a split rear exit dual round rolled angle-cut tip
10. Design Engineering 050530 Corvette C5 Transmission Tunnel Plate & Side Thermal Shield Complete Kit
Keep the console and interior temperatures of your Corvette C5 (1997-2005) under control with this precision cut sunshade. This sunshade is designed to fit perfectly and can be easily installed without removing the Trans Tunnel Plate. The adhesive installation process is simple – just peel off the backing, align it into position and press it into place.
This sunshade is resistant to wind, water, and other harsh conditions, so you can use it without worrying about damage. It is also extremely lightweight, so you won't even notice it's there. Enjoy a cooler and more comfortable ride with this high-quality sunshade.
- Precision cut for a perfect fit
- Easy adhesive installation
- Not affected by wind, water, or other harsh conditions
- Extremely lightweight
Best Exhaust For C5 Corvette FAQs
Are there any legal or emissions concerns when upgrading the exhaust system on a C5 Corvette?
Yes, there are legal and emissions concerns when upgrading the exhaust system on a C5 Corvette. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the emissions of all vehicles sold in the United States, and any modifications to the exhaust system that result in increased emissions may violate federal emissions regulations. Additionally, some states have their own emissions regulations that must be followed.
From a legal standpoint, modifying the exhaust system can also result in a violation of noise ordinances. Many municipalities have limits on the amount of noise that a vehicle can produce, and aftermarket exhaust systems can often exceed those limits.
It is important for Corvette owners to ensure that any modifications they make to their vehicles comply with both federal and state regulations. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties, and may even lead to the vehicle being impounded. It is recommended that Corvette owners consult with a reputable mechanic or performance shop to ensure that any modifications they make are legal and in compliance with emissions and noise regulations.
Can installing an aftermarket exhaust system improve the performance of a C5 Corvette?
Yes, installing an aftermarket exhaust system can definitely improve the performance of a C5 Corvette. The stock exhaust system of the C5 Corvette is designed to meet certain noise and emissions regulations, which often restrict the free flow of exhaust gases. An aftermarket exhaust system, on the other hand, is designed to improve exhaust flow, which can lead to better engine performance.
An aftermarket exhaust system can increase horsepower by allowing the engine to breathe better. It can also improve the sound of the car, making it sound more aggressive and sporty. The exhaust system can also reduce backpressure, which can help the engine run cooler and more efficiently.
However, it is important to note that simply installing an aftermarket exhaust system may not provide significant improvements on its own. The performance gains will depend on a variety of factors, such as the quality of the exhaust system, the condition of the engine, and the overall setup of the car. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic or tuner to determine the best exhaust system for your specific C5 Corvette and to ensure that it is properly installed and tuned for optimal performance.
How much horsepower can be gained by upgrading the exhaust system on a C5 Corvette?
Upgrading the exhaust system of a C5 Corvette can lead to a significant increase in horsepower. The exact amount of horsepower gain will depend on the specific exhaust system and other modifications that have been made to the vehicle. Generally speaking, a well-designed and high-performance exhaust system can increase horsepower by anywhere from 5 to 15 horsepower.
One of the primary benefits of upgrading a Corvette's exhaust system is its ability to improve engine efficiency. With a better flowing exhaust system, the engine can breathe more easily, allowing it to produce more power. Additionally, a high-performance exhaust system can reduce backpressure, which can improve fuel efficiency and overall engine performance.
It's important to note that upgrading the exhaust system alone may not be enough to achieve the desired level of horsepower gain. Other modifications, such as adding a cold air intake or upgrading the engine's computer system, may also be necessary to achieve significant horsepower gains. Ultimately, the amount of horsepower gain will depend on the specific modifications made to the vehicle and the quality of the exhaust system installed.
What are the differences between a cat-back and axle-back exhaust system for a C5 Corvette?
A cat-back exhaust system includes all the components behind the catalytic converter, such as the muffler, resonator, and pipes. This type of system is designed to increase horsepower and torque by improving exhaust flow and reducing back pressure. A cat-back system also produces a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note.
On the other hand, an axle-back exhaust system only replaces the mufflers and tailpipes, leaving the rest of the factory exhaust system intact. This type of system is less expensive and easier to install than a cat-back system, but it may not provide as significant of a performance increase or as noticeable of a sound improvement.
When it comes to a C5 Corvette, both cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems are available and can provide a noticeable improvement in performance and sound. However, the cat-back system is generally preferred for maximum gains and a more aggressive exhaust note. Ultimately, the choice between a cat-back and axle-back exhaust system comes down to personal preference and budget.
What is the best exhaust system for a C5 Corvette?
As a content writer, I understand that choosing the best exhaust system for a C5 Corvette can be challenging. The C5 Corvette is a high-performance sports car that requires a high-performance exhaust system. There are various types of exhaust systems available in the market, such as cat-back, axle-back, and headers. However, after extensive research, we found that the Borla Exhaust System is the best exhaust system for a C5 Corvette.
The Borla Exhaust System is known for its high-quality materials, excellent sound, and increased horsepower. It is made of aircraft-grade T-304 stainless steel, which ensures durability and longevity. The system is designed to reduce backpressure and increase the flow of exhaust gases, resulting in a significant increase in horsepower and torque. Additionally, the Borla Exhaust System produces an aggressive and deep exhaust note that perfectly complements the Corvette's sporty nature.
In conclusion, if you want to upgrade your C5 Corvette's exhaust system, we highly recommend the Borla Exhaust System. It is a premium product that will not only improve your car's performance but also enhance its overall driving experience.