Cat Back Exhausts vs Turbo Back Exhausts: What's the difference

When upgrading your vehicle, especially among off-road and 4WD enthusiasts, the choice of exhaust system has prime importance. Cat Back Exhausts or Turbo Back Exhausts are among the most talked-about enhancements. Both the terms sound similar, however they differ in the benefits they offer, installation required and gains in performance. If you are an enthusiast looking around for 4x4 aftermarket exhausts, getting to understand what sets one system away from the other is something to make you choose rightly.

What is a Cat Back Exhaust System?

A Cat Back system includes any section of the exhaust between the catalytic converter (or "cat") and the rear of the vehicle. The system consists of the mid-pipe, muffler and tailpipe. It does not replace or otherwise modify the catalytic converter.

Benefits of Cat Back Systems:

 

●     Legal Requirements: Because the catalytic converter remains the same, Cat Back systems are emissions-compliant in majority states. 

●     Simple Installation: These systems are usually bolt-on and do not need any significant modifications.

●     Performance and Sound Enhancing: A Cat Back exhaust system can enhance the exhaust flow for increase in the power in minor terms, better fuel economy and a strong exhaust sound.

Cat Back systems suit daily drivers and those who want some measure of performance with an element of practicality.

What is a Turbo Back Exhaust System?

Turbo Back Exhausts include everything from the turbocharger outlet (or engine headers for naturally aspirated vehicles) right through to the tailpipe. They usually come with a catalytic converter, but customers can choose to leave it out if they prefer. Consequently, such a system would very often include a high-flow downpipe and other performance-enhancing parts.

Benefits of Turbo Back Systems:

 

Boost in Performance: Turbo Back kits provide much higher exhaust flow than restrictive factory parts, and this implies that there is highly-increased horsepower and torque.

Better Exhaust Flow: Low back pressure enables the turbo to spool up rapidly, hence generating quicker throttle response.

Compatibility with Custom Tuning: Turbo Back systems are normally employed alongside a remap or ECU tune for the optimum effect.

However, generally Turbo Back systems eliminate emissions components or modify the vehicle for emissions reasons and may or may not be legal for road use in some states or countries.

Material Matters: Why 409 Stainless Steel Exhausts Stand Out

Material quality is important for whatever system you go for. The 409 stainless steel is among the top picks available since it is largely considered to be the stainless steel for 4x4 exhausts due to its strength, durability and corrosion resistance.

409 Stainless Steel Exhausts are perfect for rough environment and weather conditions. It’s the perfect middle ground as it is tougher than mild steel, without the hefty price tag of 304 stainless. It's the ideal thing for off-roaders and tow vehicles that need endurance that lasts through tough conditions.

Which One Should You Choose?

Depending on your vehicle goals and legal restrictions, decide between Cat Back and Turbo Back.

●     Go for Cat Back if you want a very easy upgrade with better sound and street-legal performance with little to no fuss.

●      Go for Turbo Back if you want ultimate performance and plan to tune the engine, this is the ideal setup. 

For 4x4 owners, there are genuine benefits for either of the two options. If you drive hard on the trails, tow heavy loads or simply want a solid exhaust tone, just the right exhaust can reward you with the ultimate drive.

Conclusion: Go Beyond Performance with Outback Exhausts

Outback Exhausts enjoys a fine reputation in the Australian off-road scene as manufacturers of quality aftermarket exhausts. We have been producing the range of 409 stainless steel exhausts for durability, performance and fitment of the most popular 4WD makes - Toyota, Ford, Nissan, etc.

Outback Exhausts can also provide performance products for OEM-style setups, such as the Toyota Hilux Catalytic CAT convertor assembly. So whether you're upgrading your Hilux for heavy towing purposes or for serious off-road trekking, Outback balances performance with uncompromised quality and compliance.

Outback Exhausts does the hard work in design, development and manufacture of the right system for you, using passionate Australian craftsmen and manufacturers committed to their craft. Counted among the best OEMs, aftermarket Cat Back or even Turbo Back, it all comes down to making something worthwhile with Outback.