Magnaflow vs. Flowmaster: Which Exhaust System Sounds the Best

A car’s exhaust system plays a major role in controlling the hot gases exiting the motor. Like a musical instrument in the hands of a master musician, systems are tuned to the characteristics of a particular engine. Two of the most popular manufacturers are Flowmaster and Magnaflow. Both brands started in California and are similar to one another in their pursuit of higher flow, better durability, and amazing tone. But each relies on a different approach to achieve that awesome sound and maximized performance.

Benefits of a Flowmaster Exhaust System

• Powered by Flowmaster’s legendary chambered mufflers
• Consistent tuned sound profiles
• Aluminized or stainless steel construction
• Made in the USA

Flowmaster is legendary among hot rod purists and muscle car maniacs for rugged construction and powerful, race-inspired tones. Homegrown with pride, Flowmaster exhaust systems are made right here in the USA from mandrel-bent, aluminized, or stainless steel tubing. Their Flowmaster American Thunder exhausts and the Flowmaster Force II exhaust system use battle-tested chambered mufflers to maximize flow.

Expertly engineered baffles cancel out excessive noise by bouncing sound waves into each other. As if that’s not enough, a low-pressure area is created inside the muffler to scavenge even more exhaust from the cylinders. What does this mean to you? Simply – locomotive power that won’t anger the neighbors when they’re making breakfast. What’s more, each muffler has staying power to match. With no packing to blow out over time, that amazing performance sound will last the life of your vehicle. Best of all, each kit is custom-made for an easy installation.

Benefits of a Magnaflow Exhaust System

• Deep and loud sound
• High flow straight-through design
• Filled with acoustical packing material

Magnaflow is quickly becoming the system of choice for a smooth, aggressive rumble and low interior resonance. Quality, power, and great sound are the objectives and Magnaflow has accomplished the mission. Proving that the underside of your car can look great too, most Magnaflow cat-back systems are composed entirely of stainless steel, with polished muffler cases. And don’t worry – there’s plenty of zing to match the bling.

Straight to the point, Magnaflow mufflers feature a straight-through design for unimpeded exhaust flow through perforated tubing. Keeping their reputation untarnished even on the inside, each muffler is packed with stainless steel wool, far outlasting the fiberglass used to pack lesser mufflers. Magnaflow exhaust systems also magnify flow with mandrel-bent tubing, further increasing horsepower and torque. Only have a driveway to work with? No problem! Magnaflow kits bolt-on in a snap using stainless steel hardware and your factory exhaust hanger.

What’s the Right Performance Exhaust System for You?

When it comes to performance, Flowmaster and Magnaflow have really done their homework. With a ton of great features to add a heartbeat to your ride, both options are a huge upgrade over your factory exhaust system. Exhausted from trying to decide which kit to choose? Check out our Magnaflow reviews and Flowmaster reviews to see the un-muffled experiences our customers have shared.

Some things never change. A good example is the unwavering love of automotive excellence by racing enthusiasts. The sound of performance thunders still from the tips of highly-specialized exhaust systems. No longer relegated to the racetrack, performance exhaust systems are a popular upgrade for increased power, exceptional economy, and incredible sound. Whether it’s coming out of a V12 exotic, a big block muscle car, or a four-bangin’ hatchback, all enthusiasts respect the tone of a well-tuned exhaust system.