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Honda Civic: Exhaust System Reviews

Whether it is loud and proud or fantastically functional, installing an exhaust is like buying a new pair of shoes for your ride. It needs to fit perfectly. This article will take a look at some of the big boys in the exhaust industry, and let you decide what is the best fit for your Honda Civic.

By Neftali Medina - April 1, 2015
Contributors: Honda-Tech, Bosal, Thermal R&D, Redshiftmotorsports, CARiD, Horsepower Freaks, Redline360

This article applies to the Honda Civic (1992-2000).

Stock exhaust systems all share a common ground, and that is to have a common ground. Automotive manufacturers produce their standard exhaust systems to be quiet, inoffensive, and inexpensive to produce. However, for a person seeking more power and efficiency, one of the best places to start is a less restrictive exhaust system. Listed below are four exhaust systems that offer functionality, performance, and efficiency, so you are able to decide what best fits your application.

It is important to recognize that although several of the exhaust systems listed here a capable of producing power gains, they will not be seen until further performance upgrades are done to the same vehicle. Better flowing exhaust systems help the engine breathe better, but a lot of the power isn't noticeable. When choosing an exhaust system, be sure to look at the size of the tubing and its construction, so that it provides the most power for your build.

Exhaust Systems Chart

Bosal
Yonaka
Thermal R&D
Spoon N1
Price
 $50-$200 $200-$300 $500-$700 $700-$1000
Fitment/Looks

Standard

Test pipe required

Stainless

Stainless
Performance
 Stock 2.5 inch piping frees up more power Mid to high range Mid to high range
Noise Level
 Low Deep, low Deep, low Deep, low
Warranty
 Limited lifetime Limited lifetime (Manufacturer Defects) Limited lifetime None
Best Quality: Thermal R&D
Best Value: Yonaka

Bosal Exhaust

Price – $50-$200

Fitment/Looks – Standard

Performance – Stock

Noise Level – Low

Warranty – Limited Lifetime

Bosal is most commonly known for their stock replacement exhaust systems. These parts are cheap, direct replacements that may or may not require welding. Each pipe can be purchased individually or in kits. These parts are generally considered quick fixes because the standard metal finishes are prone to rust. However, these parts are really cheap, and if your stock pipes have seen better days, this could be the perfect product for you. Bottom line, it is cheap enough to temporarily fix a problem. Recommended for those who need an OEM exhaust replacement at a low cost.

Yonaka Cat-Back Exhaust

Price – $200-$300

Fitment/Looks – Test pipe required

Performance – 2.5 inch piping frees up more power

Noise Level – Deep, low

Warranty – Limited lifetime manufacturer defects

The Yonaka cat-back system gives you something big for very little cost. The pipes are 2.5 inches in diameter, and give any additional bolt-on to give your car more room to breath. A downside for Honda Civic hatchback owners, is the exhaust tip has a tendency to protrude out longer than the stock pipe. It can be distracting, but the sound quality and overall design may be worth the flaws. As a plus, coupe owners don't need to worry because the muffler tips sit flush with the rear bumper. Recommended for those who want an inexpensive, high-flow aftermarket exhaust.

Thermal R&D Cat-Back

Price – $500-$700

Fitment/Looks – Stainless

Performance – Mid to high range

Noise Level – Deep, low

Warranty – Limited Lifetime

Thermal R&D systems have been considered the top-dog in the exhaust industry for years. All their parts are hand-made in America, and they stand by their products. Unlike other exhaust systems, (from the flanges to the tubes) the thermal is completely stainless steel. The available cat-back exhaust for this generation Honda Civic is 2.25 inches in diameter. The piping features mandrel bends and a 4 inch diameter muffler. It's an excellent addition to any turbo or NA setup. Recommended for those who are looking for proven performance gains, and a very high quality unit.

Spoon N1 Exhaust

Price – $700-$1,000

Fitment/Looks – Stainless

Performance – Mid to high range

Noise Level – Deep, low

Warranty – None

Spoon is known to many people as a company that needs no introduction. However, for those new to the game, Spoon sports is the producer of tuner parts for Honda specific vehicles. The company began in 1985, producing performance parts for the CRX Si. It's no surprise the Spoon N1 exhaust is favored by many enthusiasts. It features a 63mm muffler tip coupled with a 2.5 inch B pipe. The exhaust gases flow smoothly through the mandrel bent tubing, allowing for solid gains throughout the mid to high rev range. The original parts are hard to come by, and there is no warranty. Even so, prices for the these older units are will above those listed here, and hold a sense of status in the Honda community. Recommended for those who want a JDM (Japanese market only) exhaust that is loud and proud.

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