How to Compare a Single and Dual Exhaust Systems

There are two main exhaust systems in cars, and the difference depends on the number of exhaust pipes handling the exhaust generated from the car engine. There are differences in performance, particularly with the engine efficiency. Finding the right exhaust for your specific needs entails weighing the differences between the two.

Comparison of single and dual exhaust systems:

• A single exhaust system has one exhaust pipe handling the exhaust generated from the engine. By way of comparison, the dual exhaust system not only has two exhaust pipes (tail pipes), but also a complete dual system. This means that it has two catalytic converters, two mufflers, etc. The benefit of this dual system is that it provides more horsepower and greater efficiency. There are also "dual" systems in name only, which exist more for style than anything else. They have two tail pipes, whereas they do not have the two complete systems.


• The size of the vehicle's engine is a telling distinction between a dual exhaust system or a smaller engine "tricked out" to appear to be a dual exhaust system. A larger motor, such as a V-6 or a V-8 has two exhaust manifolds, whereas smaller engines have a single exhaust system.


• Horsepower difference is another telling factor. Because there is more exhaust being removed from the engine, dual systems typically have better horsepower. The fact that more exhaust is removed increases horsepower and improves engine efficiency. 


• Torque potential is another factor, linked to the size of the exhaust system's pipes. A dual system uses smaller pipes, which cause the exhaust to move more quickly through the system. This produces more torque. 


• Noise levels may be another factor, although the mufflers may cancel this out. Typically, though, the dual system will produce more noise. This is also measured in the pitch and timber, which is higher in the dual systems.