Cat-back exhaust kits are one of the most popular upgrades for the Ford Mustang. Though the car sounds great from the factory, aftermarket cat-backs give you more volume and better tone. Plus, they make your exhaust pipes less restrictive, improving performance.

A cat-back exhaust kit includes new resonators, mid-pipes, mufflers, and exhaust tips. The resulting exhaust note will range from slightly-louder-than-stock to a deafening roar.

Less restrictive cat-backs are usually louder and provide a bigger increase in power. If you combine your cat-back kit with a cold air intake and electronic tune, you’ll see even better power gains.

Axle-back exhaust kits are more affordable than cat-backs, and they'll improve your Mustang’s volume and tone. However, they don’t provide any performance benefits. You'll also have to cut your pipes to install them. That’s why many drivers prefer to go with a cat-back kit.

If you don’t want a full cat-back kit right now, consider some aftermarket mid-pipes. Installation requires some cutting, but they're an affordable way to improve sound and performance.