exhaust, shifter, throttle-bodies

[therzl]

I own a 96 Cobra. What combination x-pipe (or H or?) and cat-back exhaust would provide the most hp (this car is street driven)? The brands can be mixed. I'm leaning towards Magnaflow. I also wish to replace the stock shifter. I'm considering the Tri-ax or MGW (or any suggestions). If it's between these 2, which one is the smoothest, most accurate, and will offer the fastest shifts--I'm probably splitting hairs with these questions. Lastly, are throttle-bodies worth the money? I've been told to expect a 5 to 10 hp gain. Is this true?

Thank you.

 

[COBRA90GT]

The general consensus is that straight through style mufflers will free up more power when comparing them to chambered style mufflers. As long as you are ditching the factory sized 2 1/4 diameter exhaust plumbing, you are on the right path. Replacing the factory midpipe (whether it be an X pipe or an H pipe) and catback should yield some pretty solid gains. If you can splurge for headers as well, even better.

Exhaust preference is such a subjective matter though; be sure to pick whatever your ears like best - listen to a few different exhaust combos in person before you decide.

I think you're probably splitting hairs about the shifter as well ( ) but you can't go wrong with either brand you mentioned - good reviews from owners of both brands (Steeda and MGW) are plentiful on the message boards.

Your thoughts regarding aftermarket throttle bodies on a stock/bolt on car are pretty spot on - it's not going to free up that much power. Consider other mods instead ( ie - gears, pullies, or just go forced induction ).