Doug Thorely Quiet exhaust

[Chris Smyth]

I purchased a Doug Thorely 83406Q "quiet" exhaust (muffler) and installed it last Friday. The exhaust is an excellent piece of work and of the highest quality.

This muffler produces a "sporty" sound to the 4-two and promises to increase horsepower by about 6 HP.

The sound of this exhaust is probably appealing to the 20-something crowd. My wife and I, however, are 60 and we're way past the point of wanting to sound "cool" as we take our Sunday drives. This week I'll be re-installing the stock muffler.

This post is a cautionary tale for those who may be tempted to replace their stock exhaust with the Doug Thorley 83406Q "quiet" exhaust. The product is excellent and I'm sure it delivers the increase in horsepower it promises. But be warned that your Smart Car will not be as quiet inside, or to those on the street, as it is with the stock exhaust.

Chris

[mendo]

Originally Posted by Chris Smyth

I purchased a Doug Thorely 83406Q "quiet" exhaust (muffler) and installed it last Friday. The exhaust is an excellent piece of work and of the highest quality.

This muffler produces a "sporty" sound to the 4-two and promises to increase horsepower by about 6 HP.

The sound of this exhaust is probably appealing to the 20-something crowd. My wife and I, however, are 60 and we're way past the point of wanting to sound "cool" as we take our Sunday drives. This week I'll be re-installing the stock muffler.

This post is a cautionary tale for those who may be tempted to replace their stock exhaust with the Doug Thorley 83406Q "quiet" exhaust. The product is excellent and I'm sure it delivers the increase in horsepower it promises. But be warned that your Smart Car will not be as quiet inside, or to those on the street, as it is with the stock exhaust.

Chris

This is a very good point.
I am sure the Engineers at MB worked long and hard to get this little motor quiet.

They did a fine dance of performance and quiet all the while working to make it as small and light as they could.

I personally have installed many exhausts on mine, some of them were louder than others. I like the noise, I like the increase in performance.

It is all a personal preference and all the factors will play into your decision when you choose.

it has always been a fun car for me and I hope you continue to enjoy yours as well.

[Chris Smyth]

Thanks Mendo,

Smart Car has, indeed, done a top-notch balancing act with their stock exhaust. I'm actually quite satisfied with the performance of my 4-two with the factory exhaust. I was lured by the prospect of squeezing a few more horsepower out of the engine (it's a guy thing). I chalk this one up to experience - and I remind myself that you're never too old to learn from your mistakes.

Chris

[fastturb]

will you be selling it?

[Chris Smyth]

The fellow at the muffler shop may want to sell it. His name is Ron Wogenstahl. He works at Monro Muffler and Brake here in Cincinnati, Ohio. You can reach him at his work number: (513) 481-8237