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Auto Racing/2.5 or 3" muffler?

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Expert: - 3/15/2004


Question
Dan,

I've got a 2002 Subaru WRX and I'm looking into getting a cat-back muffler, specifically Stromung. They offer a 2.5" and 3" pipe. Someone had told me once that you have to be careful about sizing the pipe because of the "scavenging" effect of the gases. If the pipe is too large you may lose low-end power. The car already has very little low end because of the low compression so I don't want to lose anymore. I'm not planning on anymore mods to the car. Which size would you recommend?

Thanks,

Mike

Answer
Hi Mike:

Definately stay with the smaller pipe, the 3" looks great and will impress your buds, but it will steal low end torque.  

I Love that little car !  My friend Irish Mike Flynn in Orlando is fielding a pro team for the Speedvision Cup (I think) with Steve Piantineri as one of the drivers. I've probably been in 50 races with Steve, and he's a pleasure to compete with, and against.

Good luck with your Subie !

Dan Liddy
Sarasota Florida  

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Dan Liddy

Expertise

Anything concerning race cars, 20 years competition experience, Senior Competition Driver Instructor , car builder, mechanic, welding, fabrication, tuning , engine modifications, set up, suspension design. Specializing in Datsun/Nissan products. Please submit questions about RACE CARS ONLY. No street cars, no video game scenarios Thank you.

Experience

I have been racing for 20 years, I have been the Central Florida SCCA Regional Championship points for 5 years running, and won the championship in my class 2 times. During my first start in the 60's I won many solo awards and the State Championship Drags. I serve as a senior instructor for SCCA, and have taught in Mercedes AMG events at Daytona, and Dodge Viper Days at Sebring International. I have been in the thick of the competition for all of my career. At one time or another I have driven race cars at speeds nearing 195 MPH. It's quite a ride !

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