In general, Borla exhaust systems add a modest amount of horsepower, typically around 4–15 hp depending on the vehicle and configuration. Many drivers notice a sportier sound and improved throttle response more than a dramatic horsepower jump. Real-world results can vary widely.
What influences the horsepower gain
Gains depend on the type of Borla system you install, the engine design, and whether you pair the exhaust with other performance upgrades or a tune. The following categories cover the most common configurations.
- Axle-back (muffler-back): Typically 0–5 hp. The main benefits are weight reduction and a deeper exhaust tone rather than a large peak horsepower increase.
- Cat-back: Roughly 4–12 hp, occasionally up to about 15 hp on certain engines. This configuration removes more exhaust restrictions and can improve throttle response.
- Header-back or turbo-back: Generally 8–20 hp on naturally aspirated engines; 12–25+ hp on turbocharged setups or when paired with a performance tune. Gains can be more substantial on engines that flow more air.
Conclusion: The bigger the change to exhaust flow and the more you combine with other upgrades or tuning, the higher the potential horsepower gain. Without tuning or additional mods, gains are typically modest.
Maximizing gains: factors to consider
Several factors determine the final horsepower result from a Borla upgrade. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations.
- Engine type and baseline power: Small four-cylinders and older engines often see smaller gains than modern V8s or high-performance builds.
- Exhaust path and catalysts: Replacing restrictive paths (cat-back versus axle-back) yields different levels of flow improvement.
- Tuning and ECU calibration: A performance tune often unlocks additional horsepower and torque by optimizing air-fuel mixture and timing for the new exhaust flow.
- Other mods and intake: Upgrades like headers, cold air intake, and camshafts can amplify the benefits when combined with Borla exhaust.
- Environmental and regulatory factors: Altitude, temperature, emissions requirements, and warranty considerations can affect measured gains.
Conclusion: To maximize gains, many owners pair Borla exhaust upgrades with a tune and complementary performance parts, then verify results with dyno testing for their specific vehicle.
Borla claims vs. real-world results
Borla markets its exhaust systems as performance products that can improve flow and, in some cases, horsepower. Manufacturer claims often reference “up to” certain horsepower numbers, which depend on the vehicle and configuration. Independent testing and owner reports show a wide range of outcomes, with most users experiencing modest gains and noticeable gains primarily when combined with tuning or additional performance parts.
In practice, the actual horsepower increase you observe is highly vehicle-specific. Treat Borla’s numbers as guidelines rather than guarantees, and consider a dyno test for your exact car setup to quantify the benefit.
Practical tips for evaluating gains
- Baseline dyno testing before installation provides a clear comparison for your specific car.
- Plan for a tune if you want to maximize the potential gains from a Borla exhaust.
- Measure both horsepower and torque, and assess throttle response and overall drivability, not just peak numbers.
Bottom line: For most street cars, Borla exhausts offer improved flow and a more aggressive sound, with horsepower gains that are real but typically modest unless paired with tuning and other upgrades.
Summary
Borla exhaust systems generally yield modest horsepower gains, largely influenced by the system type, the vehicle, and whether you add tuning or other performance parts. Expect roughly 4–15 hp on many applications, with higher gains possible on well-matched combinations of exhaust, intake, headers, and ECU tuning. Always verify with your specific car and, if possible, a dyno session to get an accurate reading.