Some folks modify their Miatas for aesthetics. Others will do anything to eke a slight performance improvement out of the engine. Once in a while, a product will come along that satisfies both camps. One of these is the Flyin' Miata Dual exhaust.
It's hard to ignore the visual aspect of dual 89 mm tips sticking out from under a Miata's rear bumper. Those tips are chromed as well, just to make sure they're noticed. And noticed they are. Honda owners will follow the car into parking lots. Mustang drivers will pull 180 degree turns for a chance to have a second look. Gas station attendants will want to chat about the modifications. If getting noticed is part of your plan, the duals will not disappoint.
Of
course, they can't be seen from the driver's seat. Do you know
they're there? Oh yes. A mellow, throaty exhaust note comes as
standard equipment with this system. It's not as loud as some
systems, but it's got definite presence. There is no tinny sound
at all to this exhaust note - just a wonderful deep noise. Unlike
other systems, it's also in stereo! At certain ranges on the
tachometer under power, it sounds like an entire flock of Miatas
as the two pipes generate a chorus effect. You should be warned,
however - this is addictive.
Now, all this is fine, as long as there is a performance increase to back up the looks and sound. And there is. No hard numbers are available, but the seat-of-the-pants feel is one of better power, especially at the top end. Where a stock system starts to lose enthusiasm as the revs approach the redline, an engine with a set of Flying Miata Duals will keep pulling strongly. It's unlikely that the system provides any more power than a Jackson Racing or Stromung setup, but it feels just as strong as either of those. One turbo car equipped with the Duals is putting out close to 200 hp - at the rear wheels. The exhaust system would be the first thing to go if it were too restrictive.
The system is built to last, as well. Produced by Stromung for The Dealer Alternative, it's fully stainless steel from the catalytic converter to the ends of the exhaust tips. An oversize pipe leads from the cat into a specially designed single muffler. From this muffler sprout the two exhaust tips. A new hanger is included for the kit, which bolts on to an existing bolt under the bumper. It does weigh more than a single tip design, but only a few pounds - the extra tip.
Looking at the photos, you may notice that there is a new hole for the second tip. Here lies the commitment to twin pipes. Using a stick-on template provided with the kit, you have to cut your lovingly maintained bumper. It takes a lot of nerve, but is easier than it looks. A sharp knife will cut the plastic, and it is possible to get it right the first time.
Are you a dual exhaust type of person? Well, if you don't mind getting some attention and answering questions; or if you want a sound more in line with a performance car, or if you're looking for a different way to pick up some free horsepower, the answer would have to be yes. They're not cheap, but there's nothing else like them outside Japan. You won't regret it.
| Suggested Retail Price | |
|---|---|
| Flyin' Miata Dual Exhaust | $580.00 |
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