Wanting to make your Mk3 MX5 sound a little fruitier doesn't mark you out as some sort of immature hooligan, just someone who loves their car and appreciates the thrill of a sportier exhaust note. And the options in the MX5 Parts range give you plenty of choice to help expand the vocal range of your Mk3, without sounding like some sort of boy racer.
There are two main questions to consider when looking at exhaust systems; are you actually looking to improve power and engine breathing or are you simply after a slightly sportier sound and improved looks?
Working from the engine back, those serious about their engine tuning will want to look at aftermarket exhaust manifolds that help improve the flow of gases out of the engine and thereby increase power and response. The stock manifold isn't helped by the restrictive catalytic converter and you can buy aftermarket ones with no cat at all, or a freer-flowing race item. To one degree or another these will require replacing or relocating sensors in order to 'fool' the ECU into thinking the stock system is still in place and may therefore cause issues passing MoT emissions tests, so ask around and consider your priorities before taking the plunge. Fitting isn't really a DIY job either so you'll need a friendly workshop to install.
A much simpler 'bolt on' upgrade is to just change your back box or fit a 'cat back' system, which (as the name suggests) maintains the stock arrangement of catalytic converters and sensors and is therefore fully emissions compliant. If you're just after a better look or a little more sound this is probably the easier option. There's lots of choice too! Our own MX5 Parts backbox is popular for more than just affordability, the stainless steel construction looking as good as it sounds. If you're after something a little fancier this system from IL Motorsport has fatter 100mm pipes with a slash cut design to integrate smoothly with the rear bumper. A similar design is also used by this full-stainless twin backbox design, also from IL Motorsport. A halfway house replacing the secondary catalytic converter but leaving the primary one in place for MoT compliance is available in this Scorpion system. For the ultimate in style, sound and quality this premium quality centre pipe and twin silencer set-up built for IL Motorsport will have you the envy of your fellow Mk3 owners in both style and sound. Get it while stocks last! Whichever you choose enjoy a little more Mk3 and add the perfect soundtrack to your summer roadtrip!
The Scorpion Stainless Cat Back Exhaust System, MX5 Mk3/3.5/3.75
For our Mk3 Buyers Guide & Checklist click here
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