1994-2004 Mustang Exhaust Buying Guide
Last Updated June 24, 2024 | Hamilton SchuttUpgrading your SN95 or New Edge Mustang's exhaust is a great way to boost power and sound. However, some modifications and pipe combinations produce better results than others.
Keep in mind, the stock exhaust for both the SN95 and New Edge Mustangs uses 2 ¼” piping. Upgrading to 2 ½” pipes will provide much better flow for both the V6 and V8 engines. If you really want to free things up, you can opt for 3” pipes. But, you may need to modify the tailpipe housings for a perfect fit.
Check out the best and most popular upgrades for your SN95 exhaust:
Cat-Back Exhaust Kits | Shorty Headers | Mid-Pipes | Mufflers | Exhaust Tips | Additional Modifications
Get All Your Upgrades with a Cat-Back Exhaust Kit
Cat-back kits upgrade each exhaust component from the catalytic converters back: You'll get mufflers, tailpipes, and exhaust tips. These kits provide a great boost in sound and power. Better yet, they usually feature a bolt-on design for a simple installation.
Upgrade to Shorty Headers
Most SN95s came from the factory with restrictive stock manifolds. Even if you have the 1994-1995 GT's headers, you'll get better performance with aftermarket shorty headers. Shorty headers relieve the backpressure created by the engine, making the exhaust flow more efficiently.
A set of headers is also the perfect replacement for cracked manifolds in 1999-2004 Mustangs (a common problem). If you already need to replace the manifolds, you may as well upgrade to headers!
Pick a New Mid-Pipe
Upgrading your SN95 or New Edge Mustang's mid-pipe largely depends on which engine you have. If you've got a V8, swapping out the stock pipe for a high-flow H- or X-pipe won't be a problem.
But if you're running with a V6, the process is going to be a bit more difficult. The V6 engines use a single exhaust setup with a Y-pipe. While there are aftermarket Y-pipes available, you'll need to convert to a dual exhaust setup if you want the benefits that come with an H- or X-pipe.
Swap Your Mufflers
Choosing the right mufflers for your Mustang largely depends on what you'll be using your car for.
A muffler swap can change your sound significantly and is easier (and cheaper) than a full cat-back. A freer flowing muffler can also offer performance benefits.
But be warned! Many free-flowing mufflers are loud and may aggravate neighbors. Not to mention the excessive drone some performance mufflers put out while driving at high speeds. However, If you're set on performance mufflers, there are ways you can reduce exhaust drone.
If you choose a mid-pipe with a larger diameter than the stock 2 ¼” you'll want to choose mufflers of the same size. There are adapter kits available that can make the size difference work. But, more pieces produce more potential for exhaust leaks to form.
Choose Aftermarket Exhaust Tips
The main function of exhaust tips is to make your Mustang look cool. There are slight differences in sound depending on the size, shape, and whether you choose a dual- or single-walled tip. But, the differences are pretty minimal compared to the improvements made by the other exhaust components.
In other words, take this as an opportunity to create or boost your custom aesthetic!
Install Additional Modifications
Even after you've upgraded each of the parts listed above, there are still some mods that can be made to get your exhaust system in top shape:
Cold Air Intake - A cold air intake is the inhale to the exhaust's exhale. While a new exhaust will boost power on the back end, a cold air intake (CAI) will help produce more power on the front end.
This boost is created by providing clean, cool air to your engine. Cooler air equates to more oxygen, which in turn creates better combustions. The result is more power from the engine.
Tuners - Tuning your SN95 or New Edge Mustang's engine will help you get the most out of your new exhaust. The factory tune is designed to work with the stock exhaust. An aftermarket tune will ensure you're getting the best possible air-fuel mix to support your upgrades.
If you plan to install a CAI, do it before you tune your engine. This way, you only have to tune one time for the biggest increase in horsepower.
While upgrading your exhaust is a great way to get more out of your engine, it's just the tip of the iceberg. Explore some of the other popular SN95 or New Edge Mustang modifications to find the next project for your pony car!
Sources: Any Differences Between SN and New Edge Cat Back Exhaust?, SN95 Forums | Exhaust Leak, StangNet | V6 Exhaust FAQ's and Guide, SN95 Forums | FORD TSB #041003, Car Complaints
