Camaro Axle-Back vs. Camaro Cat-Back Exhaust Systems

New modders need to know the difference between a  Camaro axle-back exhaust and a Camaro cat-back exhaust. Most veteran modders have already decided if they want a Cat-Back or Axle-Back. the decision ultimately comes down to sound and appearance. 

WHAT IS A CAT-BACK EXHAUST? 

A cat-back exhaust refers to all the exhaust components and pipes after the catalytic converter. This usually starts at the exhaust manifold, eliminates the catalytic converter and goes straight to the muffler. It includes the intermediate pipe or x-pipe that runs out of the catalytic converter, the muffler and tailpipe. A performance cat-back exhaust is designed to give you more horsepower and efficiency.

WHAT IS AN AXLE-BACK EXHAUST? 

An axle-back exhaust is an exhaust system that includes the muffler and “tips.” An axle-back exhaust is really going to give you a much more aggressive sound than a cat-back exhaust.

BENEFITS OF A CAT-BACK EXHAUST

Since the cat-back exhaust system keeps the catalytic converter, it’s going to be a little more fuel efficient. A cat-back is going to give you a little better exhaust flow. A cat-back exhaust typically outperforms an axle-back exhaust by fine-tuning the torque. 

BENEFITS OF AN AXLE-BACK EXHAUST 

An axle-back exhaust will be slightly cheaper since it doesn’t include the extra piping from the catalytic converter. An axle-back exhaust is typically going to take less time to install. The axle-back exhausts tend to have a deep, full-throttle sound. 

WHICH EXHAUST SYSTEM DO I CHOOSE? 

Both types of exhaust systems are designed to give you more horsepower and a more impressive sound. It really depends on what your intention is with your exhaust system. If you’re looking for a little more power and a meaner sounding Camaro, then an axle-back exhaust might be what you’re needing. But if you want to improve your fuel-efficiency, then I’d go with a cat-back exhaust.