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Is My Car Too Old For An Aftermarket Exhaust?

For car enthusiasts, one of the most popular upgrades is swapping out the exhaust system. But, people sometimes assume that aftermarket exhaust systems are only for newer vehicles. In this blog, we'll explore how an older car, specifically a classic Honda, can benefit from an aftermarket exhaust upgrade.

Image Credit: BarnFinds

For many reasons, classic Hondas are a popular choice for restoration and modification projects. In the words of Honda founder Soichiro Honda:

If you make a superior product, people will buy it.

- Soichiro Honda

...and they have - for decades. Hondas are known for their longevity, reliability, and durability, making even Hondas that are decades old well worth the investment. Enthusiasts enjoy rebuilding them for reasons like:

  • Affordability: Initial purchase price and parts purchases usually don't break the bank.
  • Aftermarket Support: The aftermarket parts industry for Hondas, especially models like the Civic and Integra [link to the recent Integra related post here], is vast.
  • Tunability: Many Hondas can be modified for significant horsepower gains relative to their size and weight - the performance potential is real.
  • Simplicity: Pre-digital era Hondas tend to have simpler mechanics and electronics, making them easier project cars for DIY enthusiasts.
  • Resale Value: Classic Hondas can command a respectable resale value, making them a good investment.

Is Your Honda Is Too Old For An Aftermarket Exhaust?

Classic Honda owners who have made or are considering performance modifications will find that an aftermarket exhaust will complement their mods. The idea that aftermarket exhaust systems are exclusively designed for newer cars stems from a few common misconceptions, mainly:

Will My Honda Exhaust Be Compatible?

Some believe that older Hondas lack the technology to integrate with modern exhaust systems, assuming this would lead to compatibility issues. Thermal R&D has spent over 40 years perfecting the art of exhaust design. We manufacture exhaust systems to work seamlessly with your specific Honda model. We take on projects that other exhaust manufacturers can’t do, as evidenced by our massive exhaust system offerings for Hondas dating back to 1988. You can find them here.

Will My Honda Exhaust Be Emissions Compliant?

Another concern is that aftermarket exhausts may cause issues with emission compliance. Exhaust technology has progressed over the years. Replacing your old exhaust with a modern Thermal R&D will certainly not worsen your Honda’s emissions. In fact, it may even improve them, thanks to the less restrictive design. Our cat-back exhausts retain the factory catalytic converters, too.

Is A Honda Exhaust Loud?

There's also a belief that older engines won't get much of a performance benefit from a replacement exhaust - or - that they will be too boomy for regular use. This may have been the case in the past, especially with non-Thermal R&D systems. But our Drone Free True Helmholtz Technology removes that irritating drone, leaving behind nothing but a rich exhaust sound:

Older Hondas can experience a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque with a well-designed aftermarket exhaust. The enhanced exhaust flow can optimize engine breathing and combustion efficiency. Especially compared to a worn-out old exhaust, which can restrict airflow and increase back pressure. Both harm the engine’s ability to perform at its best.

Cost vs. Benefit

Depending on the make and model of your Honda, it may be worth quite a bit - or - not very much at all. The fitment of a quality aftermarket exhaust system isn’t expensive compared to most mods. But deciding whether it is worth it for your older Honda is up to you. In terms of the added value you get from installing a quality aftermarket exhaust, the enhanced sound, performance, and economy are always worth the cost. 

How Much Does A Honda Exhaust Cost?

An aftermarket exhaust can be great for older cars. Aside from the performance and sound improvements, you may even get better gas mileage. That’s thanks to the more efficient design of newer aftermarket exhaust systems.

But, as with any modification, you should ensure that the exhaust is built specifically for your Honda model – not just a generic design. Make/model-specific Thermal R&D Honda exhausts typically range from $700-$1,500.

At Thermal R&D, we produce vehicle-specific exhausts and can design and make custom exhausts for just about any vehicle. You can find all of our Honda exhaust systems here, or jump directly to some of our most popular exhaust systems for older Hondas below:

Is A Honda Exhaust Noisy? Not If It's From Thermal R&D

Upgrading the exhaust system on your older Honda can be one of the best decisions you can make if you stick with a reputable supplier. And, if you're worried about sound quality, we've got you covered. No annoying drone here - Thermal R&D's True Helmholtz Technology = drone-free exhaust sound.

We have been perfecting the art of drone-free exhaust for 40 years. All our systems are manufactured in the USA from premium materials. We’re also proud to offer a lifetime warranty. So, upgrade your old Honda with one of our premium exhaust systems and experience the difference for yourself. Call our team at (661) 591-4142 PST/PDT or get in touch online.

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