Porsche 996 GT2 SOUL Competition X-Pipe Exhaust System

$4,015.00

Product Description

The SOUL Competition X-Pipe Exhaust System is a complete catless performance exhaust developed specifically for the 2001–2005 Porsche 996 GT2, combining full 3-inch T304L stainless-steel construction, SOUL's proprietary X-pipe mixing chamber, Helmholtz resonance control, and four straight-through race resonators into an aggressive, high-flow exhaust designed around the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six.

SOUL developed the system to maximize sound and support high-output GT2 applications while addressing one of the platform's biggest challenges with freer-flowing exhausts: pronounced cabin resonance between approximately 2,000 and 3,000 RPM.

With the factory catalytic converters removed, the GT2 gains substantially greater turbocharger presence, a much more aggressive flat-six exhaust note, additional pops and burbles during deceleration, and reduced downstream exhaust restriction. SOUL's Helmholtz and quad-resonator strategy targets the objectionable frequencies without attempting to turn the Competition system into a quiet street exhaust.

The complete system weighs approximately 30 lbs compared with 58 lbs for the corresponding factory exhaust components, removing approximately 28 lbs / 12.7 kg from the rear of the vehicle.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2001–2005 Porsche 996 911 GT2

• Fits all Porsche 996 GT2 vehicles within SOUL's stated application range

• Designed for the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six

• Complete catless exhaust configuration

• Includes catalyst-delete exhaust architecture

• Designed to reuse the factory exhaust tips

• Direct bolt-on installation

• Does not fit 996 Turbo / Turbo S

• Does not fit naturally aspirated 996 Carrera models

• Does not fit 996 GT3

DETAILS:

• Complete Competition X-Pipe Exhaust System

• Completely catless

• Removes the factory catalytic converters

• Proprietary SOUL X-pipe design

• Integrated exhaust-stream mixing chamber

• Full 3-inch exhaust tubing

• .065-inch wall thickness

• T304L stainless-steel construction

• Four straight-through race resonators

• Full-metal resonator packing

• Helmholtz resonance control

• Targets problematic approximately 2,000–3,000 RPM cabin-drone range

• Designed to support high-horsepower applications

• Reduced downstream exhaust restriction

• Increased turbocharger sound

• Dramatically increased Mezger flat-six exhaust character

• Aggressive full-throttle sound

• Increased pops and burbles during deceleration

• Cabin volume remains pronounced by design

• Approximately 30 lbs / 13.6 kg

• Factory components approximately 58 lbs / 26.3 kg

• Saves approximately 28 lbs / 12.7 kg

• Approximately 48% lighter than the corresponding factory exhaust components

• Mandrel-bent tubing

• Laser-cut mounting brackets

• Custom Mikalor Supra Heavy-Duty clamps included

• Fixture-tested before shipment

• Installation instructions included

• Direct bolt-on installation

• Designed and manufactured in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

COMPLETE CATLESS GT2 EXHAUST

The Competition X-Pipe is substantially more than a rear muffler modification.

It replaces the restrictive factory exhaust architecture with a complete high-flow system incorporating:

Cat Bypass Architecture

Full 3-Inch Tubing

SOUL X-Pipe Mixing Chamber

Helmholtz Resonance Control

Quad Straight-Through Race Resonators

The result is a much freer path for exhaust gases leaving the GT2's turbochargers.

DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE 996 GT2

The 996 GT2 shares significant engineering DNA with the 996 Turbo, but this product is a dedicated GT2 exhaust system.

SOUL gives the system its own GT2-specific part number and fitment rather than treating it as another 996 Turbo exhaust variant.

That distinction should be maintained when ordering.

CATLESS COMPETITION CONFIGURATION

The Competition X-Pipe completely removes the factory catalytic converters.

Eliminating the catalyst substrates reduces one of the primary restrictions in the exhaust path after the turbochargers.

This provides additional exhaust-flow capacity for:

• Factory-output GT2s

• ECU-tuned vehicles

• Increased-boost applications

• Upgraded intercoolers

• Intake modifications

• Turbocharger upgrades

• Higher-output engine builds

It also produces a substantially more aggressive sound than a catted exhaust configuration.

FULL 3-INCH EXHAUST

Supporting high-output applications was an explicit design objective for SOUL.

The Competition system therefore uses:

3-inch tubing

throughout its primary exhaust architecture.

The larger flow path is intended to reduce restriction after the turbochargers and provide sufficient exhaust capacity for both factory and substantially modified GT2s.

WHY POST-TURBO FLOW MATTERS

On a turbocharged engine, the turbine must discharge exhaust gases into the downstream exhaust system.

Excessive downstream restriction works against efficient gas evacuation after the turbine.

A freer-flowing exhaust can therefore provide additional capacity as engine airflow, boost pressure, and power increase.

SOUL developed the 3-inch Competition system with this type of high-output use in mind.

PROPRIETARY X-PIPE MIXING CHAMBER

SOUL experimented with incorporating a dedicated mixing chamber into the X-pipe rather than simply crossing the two exhaust streams.

The finished system uses proprietary X-pipe geometry developed using 3D CAD analysis.

SOUL evaluated the design across a range of simulated pressure and temperature conditions and observed increased exhaust-gas velocity downstream of the mixing section.

The design is intended to provide:

• Improved exhaust-flow behavior

• Reduced backpressure

• Increased high-power capacity

• Improved exhaust sound quality

X-PIPE EXHAUST CHARACTER

The X-pipe allows the two exhaust streams to interact through the mixing chamber.

In addition to its flow objectives, this changes the acoustic character of the GT2.

The crossover helps produce a more unified exhaust note while allowing considerably more of the:

• Flat-six pulse

• Turbocharger sound

• High-load exhaust note

• Deceleration character

to reach the rear of the vehicle.

AGGRESSIVE FULL-THROTTLE SOUND

SOUL makes it clear that this system is designed for customers who want an aggressive exhaust.

At full throttle, expect substantially greater:

• Exhaust volume

• Turbo spool

• Turbine whistle

• Mezger flat-six character

• High-RPM intensity

• Acceleration sound

than the original GT2 exhaust.

This is not intended to provide an OEM-volume driving experience.

INCREASED TURBO WAIL

The original catalytic converters and exhaust system attenuate a considerable amount of turbocharger sound.

Removing the catalysts and replacing the downstream exhaust with freer-flowing 3-inch tubing allows significantly more of the turbo system to be heard.

Expect increased:

• Turbo spool

• Turbine whistle

• Boost-related sound

• Mechanical turbocharger character

• Throttle-transition sound

POPS AND BURBLES

SOUL specifically developed the Competition system to provide a greater amount of:

• Pops

• Burbles

• Deceleration character

when coming off throttle.

The amount experienced in an individual vehicle will still depend on factors such as:

• ECU calibration

• Engine temperature

• Fueling strategy

• Existing engine modifications

• Driving behavior

996 GT2 DRONE CHALLENGE

SOUL notes that the 996 GT2 is particularly prone to cabin drone when fitted with freer-flowing exhaust systems.

The most problematic range is approximately:

2,000–3,000 RPM

which overlaps heavily with normal street and highway driving.

Rather than ignoring that issue, SOUL incorporated dedicated resonance-control features into the Competition exhaust.

HELMHOLTZ RESONANCE CONTROL

SOUL uses Helmholtz resonators specifically to target undesirable low-frequency resonance in the GT2's approximately 2,000–3,000 RPM range.

A Helmholtz resonator targets a particular frequency range rather than simply forcing all exhaust gases through a heavily restrictive muffler.

This allows SOUL to attack objectionable resonance while maintaining a highly aggressive exhaust path.

QUAD RACE RESONATORS

The system also incorporates:

Four straight-through race resonators

These provide additional sound shaping while preserving a relatively unrestricted internal flow path.

The resonators help:

• Reduce objectionable drone

• Refine exhaust tone

• Control harsh frequencies

• Maintain aggressive exterior sound

• Preserve high exhaust-flow capacity

FULL-METAL RESONATOR PACKING

SOUL uses full-metal packing inside its straight-through race resonators.

The metallic packing is selected for durability under the high exhaust temperatures generated by a twin-turbocharged GT2.

This is particularly relevant for:

• Track use

• Sustained high-load driving

• Increased boost

• High-output engine builds

STILL AN AGGRESSIVE CABIN EXPERIENCE

The presence of Helmholtz and race resonators should not be interpreted to mean that this is a quiet exhaust.

SOUL specifically warns that cabin volume remains pronounced.

The resonance-control components are intended to reduce undesirable frequencies—not transform the Competition X-Pipe into an OEM-like touring exhaust.

Customers prioritizing maximum cabin refinement should consider a catted, more heavily attenuated configuration instead.

28-LB WEIGHT REDUCTION

SOUL publishes:

Factory Exhaust Components:
Approximately 58 lbs / 26.3 kg

SOUL Competition X-Pipe Exhaust:
Approximately 30 lbs / 13.6 kg

Weight Savings:
Approximately 28 lbs / 12.7 kg

That represents approximately:

48% less mass

than the corresponding factory exhaust components.

IMPORTANT WEIGHT CLARIFICATION

The manufacturer page states that the exhaust is:

28 lbs lighter than factory

and then provides:

30 lbs SOUL vs. 58 lbs factory

Those numbers are mathematically consistent:

58 - 30 = 28 lbs saved

So the correct catalog figures are:

SOUL system weight: 30 lbs

Weight savings: 28 lbs

This distinction is important because the two numbers could easily be reversed when reading the product page quickly.

REAR-MOUNTED WEIGHT SAVINGS

Removing 28 lbs from the exhaust is particularly meaningful on a rear-engined 911 because a significant portion of the exhaust hardware is located at the back of the vehicle.

The modification therefore provides:

• Substantial exhaust-flow improvement

• Major sound change

• Significant reduction in rear-mounted mass

in a single system.

.065-INCH-WALL T304L STAINLESS STEEL

SOUL constructs the Competition exhaust from:

3-inch-diameter

.065-inch-wall

T304L stainless steel

T304L provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycles

MANDREL-BENT TUBING

The tubing is mandrel bent to preserve the intended internal cross-sectional area as the exhaust changes direction.

This helps minimize unwanted restriction caused by deformation through bends.

LASER-CUT BRACKETS

SOUL incorporates precision laser-cut mounting brackets to maintain proper positioning within the GT2's rear chassis.

Accurate bracket geometry helps maintain:

• Exhaust alignment

• Chassis clearance

• X-pipe positioning

• Resonator positioning

• Exhaust-tip alignment

MIKALOR SUPRA HEAVY-DUTY CLAMPS

Custom Mikalor Supra Heavy-Duty clamps are included with the system.

These secure the exhaust sections while maintaining a serviceable modular connection.

REUSES FACTORY EXHAUST TIPS

This current GT2 configuration is supplied for use with the factory exhaust tips.

This preserves the original GT2 rear appearance while substantially changing the exhaust system underneath.

DIRECT BOLT-ON INSTALLATION

SOUL designs the system as a direct bolt-on exhaust.

Detailed installation instructions are supplied, and SOUL describes the installation as suitable for many experienced DIY enthusiasts.

No permanent chassis modification is required during normal installation.

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Each exhaust is tested in a dedicated production fixture before shipment.

This helps verify:

• Exhaust geometry

• Mounting alignment

• X-pipe positioning

• Resonator positioning

• Tip alignment

before the system leaves SOUL's facility.

NO PUBLISHED STANDALONE DYNO RESULT

SOUL describes the Competition X-Pipe as being engineered for:

• Reduced backpressure

• Increased flow

• Higher horsepower capability

but the current GT2 product page does not provide a controlled stock-exhaust versus Competition-X-Pipe dyno comparison.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific horsepower or torque increase.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIREMENT PUBLISHED

SOUL's current GT2 product page does not state that ECU calibration is required to physically install the exhaust.

However, the system removes the factory catalytic converters, so the vehicle's complete engine-management and diagnostic configuration should be considered when building a competition vehicle.

DasMotoring does not advertise this exhaust as a catalyst-retaining or emissions-compliant system.

COMPETITION / OFF-ROAD USE

The Competition X-Pipe completely removes the original catalytic converters.

SOUL states that the product:

• Is not CARB certified

• May not be legal for use on emissions-controlled vehicles

• Is intended for off-road / competition use only

• Requires United States customers purchasing through SOUL to execute its Catless Exhaust Component Waiver

Customers are responsible for determining whether their complete vehicle configuration and intended use comply with applicable regulations.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

SOUL backs the Competition X-Pipe Exhaust System with its:

Lifetime Warranty

for both street and track use.

Product Description

The SOUL X-50 Style Bolt-On Exhaust Tips provide the 2000–2005 Porsche 996 Turbo and Turbo S with the distinctive, more aggressive outlet appearance associated with Porsche's X-50 performance package while retaining a simple direct bolt-on installation.

Constructed from stainless steel, the tips are available in either a traditional Polished Chrome finish with black ceramic-coated interiors or a darker Black Chrome PVD finish.

The black interior treatment helps visually emphasize the exterior finish while reducing the appearance of exhaust soot inside the outlets. Both configurations are designed specifically for the 996 Turbo rear bumper and can be installed with basic hand tools without cutting, welding, or permanent modification.

These tips are a cosmetic exhaust upgrade and do not alter the vehicle's catalytic converters, mufflers, engine calibration, or emissions equipment.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2000–2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Coupe

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Cabriolet

• Fits 2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo S

• Fits all Porsche 996 Turbo vehicles within SOUL's 2000–2005 application range

• Direct bolt-on replacement for the applicable factory exhaust tips

• Does not fit naturally aspirated 996 Carrera models

• Does not fit 996 GT3 applications

DETAILS:

• Pair of X-50 Style Bolt-On Exhaust Tips

• X-50-inspired outlet design

• Direct bolt-on installation

• No cutting required

• No welding required

• Can be installed with basic hand tools

• Stainless-steel construction

• Available in Polished Chrome

• Available in Black Chrome

• Polished Chrome tips use a black ceramic-coated interior

• Black Chrome uses a durable PVD coating

• Designed specifically around the 996 Turbo rear bumper

• Cosmetic upgrade with no ECU tuning requirement

• Does not alter catalytic converters or emissions equipment

• Each set is foam packed for protection during shipping

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

X-50 STYLE APPEARANCE

The factory 996 Turbo exhaust outlets are an important part of the rear styling of the car.

SOUL's X-50 Style Tips give the rear bumper a more aggressive appearance inspired by the outlet treatment associated with Porsche's higher-performance 996 Turbo configurations.

The upgrade changes the visible portion of the exhaust without requiring a complete exhaust-system replacement.

DIRECT BOLT-ON INSTALLATION

SOUL designed these tips as a simple bolt-on modification.

Installation requires:

• No cutting

• No welding

• No bumper modification

• No exhaust-system fabrication

SOUL states that installation can be completed with hand tools in only a few minutes.

That makes this one of the simplest visual modifications available for the 996 Turbo exhaust.

POLISHED CHROME

The Polished Chrome configuration provides the classic bright-metal appearance associated with period Porsche exhaust finishes.

The exterior uses a polished chrome finish, while the inside of the tip is treated with a:

Black ceramic coating

The darker interior creates greater contrast against the polished outer surface and helps visually conceal normal exhaust residue.

Price: $715.00

BLACK CHROME

The Black Chrome configuration provides a darker and more understated appearance.

SOUL applies a:

Black Chrome PVD coating

to the stainless-steel tips.

PVD — Physical Vapor Deposition — is used to create a thin, durable decorative surface finish and is also commonly used by original-equipment manufacturers for premium exterior trim and exhaust finishes.

Price: $895.00

FINISH COMPARISON

Polished Chrome

• Traditional bright-metal finish

• Black ceramic-coated interior

• Classic period-correct appearance

• $715

Black Chrome

• Darker exterior finish

• PVD surface treatment

• More understated appearance

• $895

The Black Chrome finish carries a:

$180 premium

over Polished Chrome.

STAINLESS-STEEL CONSTRUCTION

Both configurations begin with stainless-steel construction.

Stainless steel provides:

• Corrosion resistance

• Heat resistance

• Structural durability

• Long-term exterior durability

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycles

The final visible appearance is then determined by the selected finish.

BLACK CERAMIC-COATED INTERIOR

SOUL specifically uses a black ceramic coating inside the Polished Chrome exhaust tips.

This provides several visual benefits:

• Greater contrast with the polished exterior

• More finished appearance

• Reduced visual emphasis on soot accumulation

• Darker apparent exhaust opening

BLACK CHROME PVD FINISH

The Black Chrome configuration uses a PVD coating rather than conventional paint.

PVD finishes are widely used for decorative automotive applications because they can provide:

• Uniform appearance

• Good surface durability

• Strong visual depth

• High-quality luster

The result gives the 996 Turbo a considerably darker exhaust-tip appearance without looking like a simple painted tip.

NO PERFORMANCE CHANGE

The X-50 Style Tips are downstream cosmetic exhaust components.

They do not replace or modify:

• Turbochargers

• Headers

• Catalytic converters

• Mufflers

• Oxygen sensors

• ECU calibration

SOUL does not publish a horsepower or torque gain for these tips, and DasMotoring does not represent them as a performance modification.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

No ECU calibration is required.

The tips have no interaction with:

• Engine management

• Boost control

• Catalyst monitoring

• Oxygen sensors

Installation is purely mechanical.

NO EMISSIONS IMPACT

The tips are located after the vehicle's emissions-control components.

Installing them does not remove or alter the catalytic converters or oxygen sensors.

COMPATIBLE WITH A FACTORY-STYLE REAR APPEARANCE

For owners upgrading other parts of the exhaust while wanting an OEM-inspired rear appearance, the X-50 tips provide a useful finishing option.

They can also be installed independently simply to update the appearance of an otherwise stock 996 Turbo.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

SOUL backs the X-50 Style Bolt-On Tips with its:

Lifetime Warranty

for both street and track use.

Product Description

The SOUL Sport Headers are a direct bolt-on performance upgrade for the 2000–2005 Porsche 996 Turbo and Turbo S, engineered to improve exhaust flow into the turbochargers, sharpen throttle response, increase turbo sound, and support greater performance throughout the RPM range.

SOUL replaces the restrictive factory header architecture with an optimized 3-into-1 merge collector, mandrel-bent T304L stainless-steel runners, and a larger 1.63-inch header outlet designed to transition smoothly into the approximately 1.54-inch factory turbocharger inlet.

The factory 996 Turbo header incorporates an internal support through the center runner that interrupts the exhaust flow path. SOUL eliminates this obstruction and redesigns the runner and collector geometry to increase exhaust velocity into the collector and turbocharger.

Unlike the factory double-wall exhaust manifolds, SOUL uses single-wall .065-inch T304L stainless-steel construction. In addition to improving flow, the single-wall design allows more of the Mezger flat-six and turbocharger sound through, producing a sharper exhaust note, greater turbo presence, and more pronounced burbles and pops during shifts and deceleration.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2000–2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Coupe

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Cabriolet

• Fits 2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo S

• Designed for the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six

• Compatible with the factory turbochargers

• Compatible with factory downstream exhaust components

• Compatible with SOUL 996 Turbo Sport X-Pipe Exhaust

• Compatible with SOUL 996 Turbo Competition X-Pipe Exhaust

• Compatible with SOUL 996 Turbo Valved Exhaust System

• Direct bolt-on replacement for the factory exhaust manifolds

• Does not fit naturally aspirated 996 Carrera models

• Does not fit 996 GT3 applications

DETAILS:

• Pair of performance Sport Headers

• Optimized 3-into-1 merge collector

• Designed to increase exhaust velocity into the turbocharger

• Designed to improve boost response

• Designed for stronger response throughout the RPM range

• Removes the restrictive internal support found in the factory center runner

• Factory turbo inlet approximately 1.54" ID

• SOUL header outlet approximately 1.63" ID

• Smooth transition into the factory turbocharger inlet

• Single-wall construction

• Factory header uses double-wall construction

• Increased turbocharger sound

• Sharper exhaust character

• Increased flat-six presence

• More pronounced burbles between shifts

• Sharper pops during deceleration

• Designed to retain appropriate ground clearance for street-driven cars

• Mandrel-bent tubing

• .065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

• Laser-cut flanges

• Back-purged TIG welding

• ARCAL Prime argon shielding gas

• Thick-gauge aluminum fabrication fixtures

• New high-grade installation hardware included

• OEM Porsche gaskets included

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• Designed and built in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

OPTIMIZED 3-INTO-1 MERGE COLLECTORS

Each bank of the Mezger flat-six feeds three exhaust runners into one turbocharger.

The collector geometry therefore plays an important role in how efficiently exhaust pulses move from the cylinder heads toward the turbine.

SOUL replaces Porsche's basic factory collector arrangement with an optimized:

3-into-1 merge collector

designed to create a smoother path into the turbocharger.

The goal is to improve:

• Exhaust-gas velocity

• Collector efficiency

• Turbocharger response

• Overall engine response

rather than simply increasing tubing size.

FACTORY CENTER-RUNNER RESTRICTION

One of the specific shortcomings SOUL identified in the factory manifolds is an internal support located within the center exhaust runner.

That support interrupts the otherwise smooth path of exhaust gases leaving the cylinder head.

SOUL eliminates that obstruction entirely.

This provides a cleaner route from the exhaust port through the runner and into the merge collector.

DESIGNED AROUND THE TURBOCHARGER INLET

SOUL measured the factory turbocharger inlet at approximately:

1.54 inches ID

The SOUL header outlet measures approximately:

1.63 inches ID

Rather than making the outlet dramatically larger than the turbocharger connection, SOUL sizes the header to create a smooth transition into the existing turbine inlet.

This helps avoid an unnecessary abrupt restriction directly before the turbocharger.

APPROXIMATELY 12% GREATER NOMINAL OUTLET AREA

The increase from approximately 1.54" to 1.63" internal diameter equates to roughly:

12% more nominal circular cross-sectional area

at the header outlet.

That is a geometric comparison rather than a measured flow increase, but it illustrates why even a seemingly modest increase in diameter can produce a meaningful increase in available passage area.

IMPROVED BOOST RESPONSE

SOUL specifically developed the Sport Headers to improve:

turbocharger response

rather than focusing only on peak horsepower.

The combination of:

• Improved runner geometry

• Reduced center-runner obstruction

• Optimized merge collector

• Larger outlet

• Smooth transition into the turbo

is intended to move exhaust energy into the turbine more efficiently.

SOUL describes the result as noticeably quicker response when the accelerator is pressed.

MORE USABLE POWER THROUGH EACH GEAR

Better turbo response can improve the way the car feels before a downshift becomes necessary.

SOUL describes the Sport Headers as providing more usable performance throughout each gear rather than producing a change that is noticeable only at high RPM.

For a turbocharged road car, this broader response can be as important as a peak power number.

NO PUBLISHED STANDALONE DYNO NUMBER

SOUL describes increases in:

• Power

• Response

• Turbocharger response

• Usable performance throughout the RPM range

but the current product page does not provide a controlled factory-header versus SOUL-header dyno graph.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific horsepower or torque increase for the headers alone.

SINGLE-WALL VS. FACTORY DOUBLE-WALL CONSTRUCTION

The factory 996 Turbo headers use a:

double-wall design

SOUL instead uses:

single-wall stainless-steel construction

This changes the acoustic behavior of the exhaust manifolds.

The factory double-wall architecture suppresses more mechanical exhaust and turbocharger sound.

SOUL's single-wall design allows more of that character to pass through.

INCREASED TURBOCHARGER SOUND

One of the immediately noticeable secondary benefits of the single-wall header construction is increased turbo sound.

Expect greater:

• Turbo spool

• Turbine whistle

• Mechanical turbocharger character

• Throttle-related turbo sound

particularly when paired with a freer-flowing downstream exhaust.

SHARPER EXHAUST CHARACTER

SOUL describes the resulting tone as having a sharper edge than the factory manifolds.

The headers increase sound without creating the type of low-frequency drone typically associated with poorly designed downstream muffler systems.

Expect more:

• Mechanical engine character

• Turbocharger presence

• Exhaust texture

• Shift-related sound

• Deceleration character

MORE BURBLES AND POPS

SOUL specifically notes an increase in:

• Burbles between shifts

• Sharper pops during deceleration

These characteristics result from allowing more of the exhaust's natural acoustic energy through the single-wall header construction.

The exact amount will still depend on:

• ECU calibration

• Catalyst configuration

• Downstream exhaust

• Engine operating temperature

• Driving style

DESIGNED WITH GROUND CLEARANCE IN MIND

SOUL developed the headers while specifically considering the needs of:

daily-driven 996 Turbos

The objective was to improve the collector and runner architecture without sacrificing practical ground clearance.

This is particularly important on modified cars using:

• Lowered suspension

• Performance coilovers

• Aggressive street alignments

• Track-oriented ride heights

WITH THE FACTORY EXHAUST

The Sport Headers can be installed while retaining the factory downstream exhaust system.

This is the most conservative configuration.

Benefits include:

• Improved header flow

• Increased turbocharger sound

• Sharper exhaust character

• Retained factory catalyst and muffler behavior

• Factory-like downstream sound attenuation

For an owner who wants improved response without dramatically increasing exhaust volume, the headers can be installed independently.

WITH THE SOUL SPORT X-PIPE

Pairing the Sport Headers with the SOUL Sport X-Pipe creates a more comprehensive catted performance exhaust.

The Sport X-Pipe adds:

• Full 3-inch downstream piping

• High-flow catalysts

• Proprietary X-pipe architecture

• Quad race resonators

• Major exhaust weight reduction

while the Sport Headers improve flow on the upstream side of the turbochargers.

WITH THE SOUL COMPETITION X-PIPE

For a more aggressive competition-oriented configuration, the Sport Headers can be paired with SOUL's catless Competition X-Pipe.

This creates a substantially freer exhaust system both:

before the turbochargers

and

after the turbochargers

while greatly increasing turbo and exhaust sound.

Catalyst-removal emissions and diagnostic considerations come from the Competition X-Pipe rather than from these headers.

WITH THE SOUL VALVED EXHAUST

The Sport Headers can also be paired with the SOUL Valved Exhaust System.

This combination provides:

• Improved pre-turbo header flow

• Increased turbocharger sound

• Switchable downstream exhaust volume

• 3-inch valves-open flow path

• Resonated quieter mode

This can be particularly attractive for a modified street car where the owner wants substantially increased sound and flow without being committed to maximum volume at all times.

.065-INCH T304L STAINLESS-STEEL CONSTRUCTION

SOUL constructs the headers from:

.065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

T304L provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Suitability for repeated turbocharged heat cycles

• Appropriate durability for both street and track use

MANDREL-BENT RUNNERS

Each runner is mandrel bent to maintain the intended internal geometry as the tubing changes direction.

This helps preserve:

• Cross-sectional area

• Exhaust-gas velocity

• Predictable flow

• Consistent geometry

throughout the header.

LASER-CUT FLANGES

SOUL uses precision laser-cut flanges to provide repeatable interfaces at the cylinder heads and turbocharger connections.

Accurate flange geometry helps maintain:

• Proper sealing

• Runner alignment

• Turbocharger alignment

• Reliable installation

BACK-PURGED TIG WELDING

The headers are TIG welded while being internally back purged.

SOUL uses:

ARCAL Prime argon

during fabrication.

Back purging helps protect the internal surface of the stainless steel during welding and promotes:

• Proper weld penetration

• Cleaner internal weld surfaces

• Reduced oxidation

• Long-term durability

THICK-GAUGE ALUMINUM FABRICATION FIXTURES

SOUL assembles the headers in substantial aluminum fixtures.

The fixtures act as heat sinks during fabrication and help control distortion caused by welding.

This helps maintain:

• Cylinder-head flange alignment

• Runner geometry

• Collector positioning

• Turbocharger connection alignment

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Every completed set is tested in its production fixture before shipment.

SOUL verifies the geometry before performing final quality control and packing the headers.

INSTALLATION HARDWARE INCLUDED

SOUL supplies:

• New high-grade fasteners

• Required mounting hardware

• OEM Porsche gaskets

with the Sport Headers.

That is particularly useful on a 20-plus-year-old 996 Turbo where original exhaust hardware may be heavily heat cycled or corroded.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

No ECU calibration is required simply to install the Sport Headers.

They do not remove:

• Catalytic converters

• Oxygen sensors

• Emissions-monitoring equipment

A performance calibration may provide additional benefit when combined with other modifications, but tuning is not required for physical installation.

NO PUBLISHED WEIGHT FIGURE

SOUL's current product page does not provide a factory-header versus SOUL-header weight comparison.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a numerical weight reduction.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

SOUL backs the Sport Headers with its:

Lifetime Warranty

for both street and track use.

Product Description

The SOUL Sport X-Pipe Exhaust System is a complete catted performance exhaust for the 2000–2005 Porsche 996 Turbo and Turbo S, combining high-flow HJS catalytic converters, a proprietary X-pipe mixing chamber, full 3-inch tubing, and four straight-through race resonators into one lightweight turbo-back exhaust system.

SOUL developed the Sport X-Pipe for owners who want substantially more of the 996 Turbo's Mezger flat-six and turbocharger character without turning the car into an excessively loud or tiring street car. Under heavy throttle, the system delivers a significantly stronger exhaust note, turbo wail, and additional pops and burbles on deceleration. During steady-speed cruising, the four resonators help control cabin resonance and maintain a comparatively refined sound.

The proprietary X-pipe incorporates a mixing chamber developed through 3D CAD analysis to improve exhaust-gas behavior downstream of the merge, with the goal of reducing backpressure while supporting high-output applications.

At approximately 28 lbs, the complete SOUL Sport X-Pipe Exhaust System is approximately 30 lbs / 13.6 kg lighter than the roughly 58-lb factory exhaust components it replaces—a reduction of more than 50%.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2000–2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Coupe

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Cabriolet

• Fits 2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo S

• Designed for the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six

• Compatible with factory exhaust tips

• Available with SOUL X-50 Style Polished Chrome tips

• Available with SOUL X-50 Style Black Chrome tips

• Compatible with applicable SOUL 996/997 Turbo Sport Headers

• Does not fit naturally aspirated 996 Carrera / Carrera 4 / Carrera 4S

• Does not fit 996 GT3

DETAILS:

• Complete catted X-Pipe exhaust system

• Premium HJS high-flow catalytic converters

• Proprietary SOUL X-pipe mixing-chamber design

• Full 3-inch exhaust tubing

• Four straight-through race resonators

• Full-metal resonator packing for durability

• Developed for high-horsepower applications

• Reduced exhaust restriction compared with the factory system

• Increased turbocharger sound

• Increased Mezger flat-six exhaust character

• More aggressive sound under heavy throttle

• Mild, sporty character during cruising

• Increased pops and burbles on deceleration

• Designed to reduce cabin drone

• Developed for operation without catalyst-related check engine lights

• Approximately 28 lbs / 12.7 kg

• Factory exhaust components approximately 58 lbs / 26.3 kg

• Saves approximately 30 lbs / 13.6 kg

• Approximately 52% lighter than the factory exhaust components being replaced

• Mandrel-bent 3-inch T304L stainless-steel tubing

• .065-inch wall thickness

• Straight-through race resonators

• Laser-cut mounting brackets

• Custom Mikalor Supra Heavy-Duty clamps included

• Direct bolt-on installation

• Installation instructions included

• Fixture-tested before shipment

• Foam-packed after final quality inspection

• Available with factory or SOUL X-50 Style exhaust tips

• HJS catalytic converters covered by a 3-year warranty

• Remaining SOUL exhaust components backed by a Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

COMPLETE CATTED PERFORMANCE EXHAUST

The Sport X-Pipe is not simply a rear muffler replacement or standalone catalyst upgrade.

It is a complete performance exhaust configuration combining:

High-Flow HJS Catalysts

Full 3-Inch Tubing

SOUL X-Pipe Mixing Chamber

Quad Straight-Through Resonators

Factory or SOUL Exhaust Tips

into one integrated system.

The result is a significant change in both exhaust flow and sound while retaining catalytic converters.

HJS HIGH-FLOW CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

SOUL currently specifies HJS catalytic converters for the Sport X-Pipe Exhaust System.

HJS catalysts are selected for their combination of:

• High exhaust-flow capacity

• Catalyst efficiency

• High-temperature durability

• Resistance to sustained performance use

• Long-term substrate stability

SOUL specifically describes the catalysts as capable of meeting EURO 4 emissions standards while still providing increased exhaust flow.

HJS HD CONSTRUCTION

SOUL identifies these as HJS HD-design catalysts.

The internal catalyst construction incorporates:

• Premium triple-foil winding

• Reinforced catalyst-core construction

• A brazing stripe intended to prevent substrate movement

These features are particularly relevant on a turbocharged engine where the catalyst assemblies experience substantial:

• Exhaust temperature

• Gas velocity

• Pressure

• Thermal cycling

during sustained high-load use.

NO CURRENT PUBLISHED CELL COUNT

SOUL's current product page identifies the catalysts as HJS high-flow units, but does not currently specify a catalyst cell count in the main product specifications.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific cell count for current production.

DEVELOPED FOR CEL-FREE OPERATION

One of SOUL's primary goals with the Sport X-Pipe was achieving increased flow without causing catalyst-efficiency faults.

SOUL specifically markets the system as providing:

added performance without a check engine light

and developed the catalytic-converter configuration accordingly.

As with any modified exhaust on an older vehicle, DasMotoring treats this as manufacturer design intent rather than an unconditional diagnostic guarantee for every individual car.

Diagnostic behavior can also be influenced by:

• Oxygen-sensor condition

• Existing engine faults

• Fuel mixture

• ECU calibration

• Exhaust leaks

• Additional modifications

FULL 3-INCH EXHAUST

Supporting high-output 996 Turbo applications was a major design requirement.

SOUL therefore uses:

3-inch tubing

throughout the Sport X-Pipe system.

The larger exhaust architecture provides additional flow capacity for vehicles ranging from stock output to substantially modified builds.

DESIGNED FOR HIGH-POWER 996 TURBOS

The Mezger-based 996 Turbo platform responds extremely well to modification.

Common upgrades include:

• ECU tuning

• Increased boost

• Larger turbochargers

• Intercooler upgrades

• Intake upgrades

• Header upgrades

• Fuel-system modifications

As engine airflow and horsepower increase, reducing downstream exhaust restriction becomes increasingly important.

SOUL designed the Sport X-Pipe with this type of use in mind rather than sizing it solely around factory power levels.

PROPRIETARY X-PIPE MIXING CHAMBER

SOUL experimented with adding a dedicated mixing chamber to the X-pipe during development.

Rather than simply crossing two pipes, the final system uses proprietary internal geometry intended to improve the interaction between the two exhaust streams.

SOUL analyzed the design using 3D CAD software across different pressure and temperature conditions.

The development work showed increased gas velocity downstream of the mixing chamber across the tested range.

PURPOSE OF THE MIXING CHAMBER

SOUL designed the X-pipe mixing section to improve:

• Exhaust-gas velocity

• Overall flow characteristics

• Backpressure

• High-output capability

• Exhaust sound quality

This is an important distinction from an exhaust system that merely joins the left and right banks without controlling the merge geometry.

REDUCED BACKPRESSURE

Reducing restriction after the turbochargers is particularly valuable on a forced-induction engine.

The turbines must discharge exhaust into the downstream exhaust system.

A freer-flowing post-turbo system can provide additional capacity for the engine and turbochargers, particularly as output increases.

The 3-inch X-pipe architecture is therefore designed not only to increase sound but also to support greater performance potential.

QUAD RACE RESONATORS

SOUL uses four straight-through race resonators in the Sport X-Pipe.

The resonators are not intended to create the heavy attenuation of a conventional factory muffler.

Instead, they selectively control undesirable frequencies while maintaining a relatively unrestricted exhaust path.

This helps create:

• Greater exterior sound

• More turbocharger presence

• More flat-six character

without introducing excessive cabin drone.

FULL-METAL RESONATOR PACKING

The resonators use a full-metal packing design.

Compared with conventional fibrous packing materials, the metallic packing is selected for greater durability under sustained high exhaust temperatures.

That makes it particularly appropriate for:

• Turbocharged applications

• Track use

• Repeated high-load operation

• Modified high-horsepower engines

SOUND — HEAVY THROTTLE

Under aggressive throttle, the Sport X-Pipe becomes considerably more vocal than the factory 996 Turbo exhaust.

Expect:

• Stronger Mezger flat-six character

• Increased turbo spool

• Increased turbine sound

• Greater high-RPM volume

• More aggressive acceleration tone

• Additional mechanical exhaust texture

The high-flow catalysts allow significantly more turbo and engine sound through than the factory system.

SOUND — CRUISING

SOUL deliberately avoided building a system that is aggressively loud all the time.

During steady-state driving, the four resonators help keep the exhaust comparatively:

• Mild

• Sporty

• Refined

• Conversation friendly

• Suitable for longer drives

This makes the Sport X-Pipe substantially different in mission from the Competition X-Pipe.

POPS AND BURBLES

SOUL specifically developed the Sport X-Pipe to introduce a modest increase in:

• Pops

• Burbles

• Deceleration character

without relying on an artificially aggressive engine calibration.

The exact amount will depend on:

• ECU software

• Engine operating temperature

• Throttle behavior

• Existing engine modifications

TURBO WAIL

The original 996 Turbo exhaust suppresses a substantial amount of turbocharger sound.

Between the factory catalyst assemblies and downstream exhaust attenuation, much of the mechanical character of the turbo system is filtered before reaching the driver.

The SOUL Sport X-Pipe lets substantially more of that sound through.

Expect more audible:

• Turbo spool

• Turbine whistle

• Boost-related sound

• Throttle-transition sound

particularly under load.

30-LB WEIGHT REDUCTION

SOUL publishes:

Factory Exhaust Components:
Approximately 58 lbs / 26.3 kg

SOUL Sport X-Pipe Exhaust:
Approximately 28 lbs / 12.7 kg

Weight Savings:
Approximately 30 lbs / 13.6 kg

That represents approximately a:

52% reduction

in the mass of the corresponding exhaust components.

MEANINGFUL REAR WEIGHT REDUCTION

Removing approximately 30 lbs is substantial for an exhaust change.

It is particularly useful on a rear-engined 911 because much of the factory exhaust mass is positioned behind the rear axle.

The modification therefore provides both:

• Increased exhaust performance

and

• Significant reduction in rear-mounted mass

3-INCH T304L STAINLESS CONSTRUCTION

SOUL fabricates the system from:

3-inch-diameter

.065-inch-wall

T304L stainless steel

This construction provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Appropriate durability for street and track use

MANDREL-BENT TUBING

The tubing is mandrel bent to preserve internal cross-sectional area through changes in direction.

This helps avoid unnecessary restrictions created by crushed or excessively distorted bends.

Maintaining consistent internal geometry is particularly important in a full 3-inch high-flow exhaust.

LASER-CUT BRACKETS

SOUL uses precision laser-cut mounting brackets throughout the system.

The brackets help maintain:

• Exhaust alignment

• Tip positioning

• Chassis clearance

• Catalyst positioning

• Resonator positioning

MIKALOR SUPRA HEAVY-DUTY CLAMPS

SOUL supplies custom Mikalor Supra Heavy-Duty clamps with the exhaust.

These high-strength clamps secure the exhaust sections while allowing the system to remain serviceable rather than permanently welded together on the vehicle.

DIRECT BOLT-ON INSTALLATION

The Sport X-Pipe is designed as a complete bolt-on exhaust.

SOUL includes detailed installation instructions and tests each completed system in a dedicated fixture before shipment.

No permanent chassis modification should be required during normal installation.

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Before shipment, each exhaust is checked in its production fixture.

This helps verify:

• Turbo-outlet alignment

• Catalyst positioning

• X-pipe geometry

• Resonator alignment

• Exhaust-tip positioning

• Overall dimensional consistency

The completed system is then foam packed to protect it during transportation.

FACTORY EXHAUST TIPS

The least expensive configuration allows the customer to:

Reuse OEM Exhaust Tips

This maintains the original Porsche rear appearance while replacing the exhaust system underneath.

Price: $5,515.00

POLISHED CHROME X-50 STYLE TIPS

SOUL's optional X-50 Style tips provide a more aggressive period-correct appearance inspired by Porsche's factory X-50 / Turbo performance aesthetic.

The Polished Chrome version provides a traditional bright-metal finish.

Price: $6,115.00

BLACK CHROME X-50 STYLE TIPS

The Black Chrome X-50 Style tips offer a darker, more understated appearance.

Price: $6,295.00

TIP PRICE DIFFERENCES

Relative to reusing the factory tips:

Polished Chrome X-50: +$600

Black Chrome X-50: +$780

The Black Chrome configuration is therefore:

$180 more

than Polished Chrome.

SPORT X-PIPE VS. FACTORY EXHAUST

Factory 996 Turbo Exhaust

• Approximately 58 lbs

• More restrictive catalyst and exhaust architecture

• Relatively subdued turbo sound

• Relatively subdued Mezger flat-six character

• Designed primarily around OEM sound targets

SOUL Sport X-Pipe

• Approximately 28 lbs

• Saves approximately 30 lbs

• Full 3-inch piping

• HJS high-flow catalysts

• Proprietary X-pipe mixing chamber

• Quad race resonators

• More turbo wail

• More flat-six sound

• Developed to remain refined during cruising

• Developed for catalyst-related CEL-free operation

SPORT X-PIPE VS. COMPETITION X-PIPE

The major decision in the fixed SOUL 996 Turbo exhaust range is between:

Sport X-Pipe

and

Competition X-Pipe

The Sport system retains high-flow catalysts.

The Competition system removes them.

Sport X-Pipe

• HJS high-flow catalytic converters

• More conservative exhaust odor

• Developed for CEL-free operation

• More street-oriented

• Approximately 28 lbs

• More expensive

Competition X-Pipe

• Catless

• Lower purchase price

• Greater raw exhaust sound

• Greater exhaust odor

• Catalyst-related CEL considerations

• Competition-oriented

Both use SOUL's high-flow X-pipe philosophy.

SPORT X-PIPE VS. VALVED EXHAUST

Sport X-Pipe

• Fixed exhaust architecture

• Catted

• Quad race resonators

• No active quiet mode

• $5,515–$6,295

• 28-lb published weight

• 30-lb published weight savings

Valved Exhaust System

• Switchable exhaust valves

• 3-inch open path

• Resonated 2-inch quiet path

• Available catted or catless

• Much wider range of sound

• $5,495–$7,715

• No current published weight figure

The Sport X-Pipe is the simpler choice for a customer who wants a consistently sporty exhaust without needing active valve control.

NO PUBLISHED STANDALONE DYNO NUMBER

SOUL developed the system around reducing backpressure and maximizing power potential.

However, the current product page does not publish a controlled factory-exhaust versus Sport-X-Pipe dyno test.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a numerical horsepower or torque gain.

Customer reports of stronger acceleration or faster turbo response should not be presented as controlled manufacturer dyno data.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

SOUL does not require ECU tuning to install the Sport X-Pipe.

The system is specifically developed around high-flow catalysts that operate without triggering catalyst-related diagnostic faults under normal conditions.

A performance calibration may provide additional gains—particularly on a modified Turbo—but it is not required simply for installation.

HJS CATALYST WARRANTY

SOUL provides a:

3-year warranty

for the HJS catalytic converters.

The remainder of the SOUL exhaust components are covered by its:

Lifetime Warranty

for both street and track use.

Product Description

The SOUL Valved Exhaust System gives the 2000–2005 Porsche 996 Turbo / Turbo S something Porsche never offered from the factory: a genuinely switchable exhaust with a dramatic difference between quiet and aggressive operation.

SOUL developed a true dual-path exhaust architecture around the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six. With the valves open, exhaust flows through a large 3-inch primary path for maximum sound, flow, and performance potential. Close the valves and exhaust is redirected through a smaller 2-inch secondary path and oversized resonators, substantially reducing exterior volume, smoothing exhaust pulses, and suppressing the low-frequency drone that can make an aggressive 996 Turbo exhaust tiring during normal driving.

The system is available in either Competition / Catless or Sport / High-Flow Catted configurations, and can reuse the factory exhaust tips or be paired with SOUL's X-50 Style tips in Polished or Black Chrome.

For a 996 Turbo that needs to remain comfortable on the highway but become dramatically more engaging on demand, the SOUL Valved Exhaust System provides a much wider range of sound than the factory non-valved exhaust architecture.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2000–2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Coupe

• Fits applicable 996 Turbo Cabriolet

• Fits 2005 Porsche 996 911 Turbo S

• Designed for the twin-turbo Mezger flat-six

• Fits factory-tip configurations

• Available with optional SOUL X-50 Style exhaust tips

• Available in Competition / Catless

• Available in Sport / High-Flow Catted

• Compatible with applicable SOUL 996 Turbo Sport Headers

• Does not apply to naturally aspirated 996 Carrera / Carrera 4 / Carrera 4S applications

DETAILS:

• Complete Valved Exhaust System

• Adds switchable exhaust-valve functionality to the factory non-valved 996 Turbo

• Dual-path exhaust architecture

• 3-inch primary exhaust path

• 2-inch resonated secondary exhaust path

• Valves-open mode prioritizes maximum sound and flow

• Valves-closed mode prioritizes lower volume and reduced drone

• Oversized resonators in the quiet path

• Designed to smooth exhaust pulses with valves closed

• Significantly greater contrast between aggressive and quiet modes

• Available with Competition / Catless catalyst configuration

• Available with Sport / High-Flow Catted catalyst configuration

• Can reuse factory exhaust tips

• Optional X-50 Style Polished exhaust tips

• Optional X-50 Style Black Chrome exhaust tips

• Mandrel-bent tubing

• .065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

• Back-purged TIG welding

• ARCAL Prime argon shielding gas used during fabrication

• Waterjet-cut flanges

• Flanges manufactured to tight dimensional tolerances

• Thick-gauge aluminum fabrication fixtures

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• All required installation hardware included

• Can be configured for operation through the vehicle's HomeLink buttons

• Designed and built in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

A TRUE VALVED EXHAUST FOR THE 996 TURBO

Unlike later 911 Turbo generations, the 996 Turbo left the factory without a switchable performance exhaust.

Porsche instead designed the original system around maintaining relatively restrained cabin and exterior sound levels.

SOUL's system changes the basic architecture by adding two distinct exhaust paths:

Valves Open:
Large, freer-flowing performance path

Valves Closed:
Smaller, resonated quiet path

That gives the driver substantially more control over the personality of the car.

VALVES OPEN — FULL 3-INCH PRIMARY PATH

Opening the valves directs exhaust through SOUL's:

3-inch primary flow path

This is the performance-oriented side of the system.

With the valves open, the exhaust bypasses the quieter secondary path and allows the Mezger engine and turbochargers to become considerably more audible.

Expect significantly increased:

• Turbocharger sound

• Turbine whistle

• Exhaust volume

• Mezger flat-six character

• High-RPM intensity

• Acceleration sound

• Throttle-related feedback

The larger path is also designed to support increased exhaust flow and performance potential.

VALVES CLOSED — RESONATED 2-INCH PATH

Closing the valves redirects the exhaust through a:

2-inch secondary flow path

feeding:

oversized resonators

SOUL uses this smaller and more heavily attenuated route specifically to reduce sound rather than merely changing exhaust tone slightly.

The resonators help:

• Reduce exterior volume

• Reduce cabin volume

• Smooth exhaust pulses

• Suppress unwanted resonance

• Reduce cruising drone

The result is intended to be substantially more comfortable during normal street and highway driving.

MORE THAN JUST SMALLER QUIET-MODE PIPES

Packaging around the rear of the 996 Turbo limits the amount of physical muffler volume available.

SOUL found that simply reducing tubing diameter was not enough to create the level of sound reduction it wanted.

The company therefore combines the smaller secondary piping with oversized resonators.

This creates a much more effective quiet path than relying solely on pipe diameter to reduce noise.

TWO DISTINCT SOUND MODES

SOUL's development targets were straightforward:

Valves Closed

• Comfortable

• Refined

• Reduced drone

• Lower-profile cruising

• Suitable for longer trips

Valves Open

• Aggressive

• Much louder

• Freer flowing

• Greater turbo sound

• Greater Mezger character

• Performance focused

This is especially useful on a 996 Turbo because the same car can transition from a long-distance grand tourer to a much more visceral performance car simply by changing valve position.

FACTORY 996 TURBO EXHAUST CHARACTER

The original 996 Turbo is exceptionally capable, but its factory exhaust is relatively restrained compared with the car's performance.

Turbochargers naturally attenuate exhaust sound before the gases even reach the downstream exhaust system.

The factory system then suppresses even more of the:

• Turbo spool

• Turbine sound

• Flat-six pulse

• High-RPM character

SOUL's valves-open path reduces that downstream attenuation and allows substantially more of the engine's natural character through.

COMPETITION / CATLESS CONFIGURATION

The Competition configuration eliminates catalytic converters for the least restrictive version of the Valved Exhaust System.

It combines:

• Catless exhaust flow

• 3-inch valves-open path

• Resonated 2-inch valves-closed path

• Full valve control

This is the most aggressive version of the system.

Expect:

• Maximum turbocharger sound

• Maximum catalyst-section flow

• Stronger raw exhaust character

• Greater exhaust odor

• Potential catalyst-related check engine lights

• Greater emissions implications

This configuration is intended for appropriate competition / off-road applications.

SPORT / HIGH-FLOW CATTED CONFIGURATION

The Sport configuration incorporates high-flow catalytic converters.

It retains the same basic valved architecture while providing a more street-oriented solution.

Benefits compared with Competition / Catless include:

• Retained catalytic converters

• Reduced raw exhaust odor

• More conservative emissions behavior

• Reduced catalyst-monitoring concerns

• High-flow performance architecture

• Same dual-mode valve functionality

For a car that sees substantial street use, this is generally the more practical configuration.

COMPETITION VS. SPORT

Competition / Catless

• Lower purchase price

• Completely catless

• Maximum catalyst-section flow

• Maximum turbocharger sound

• Greater exhaust odor

• Catalyst-related CEL possible

• Competition oriented

Sport / Catted

• Higher purchase price

• High-flow catalytic converters

• Reduced raw exhaust smell

• More street-oriented behavior

• Same 3-inch / 2-inch valved architecture

• Same available tip choices

Both configurations retain the fundamental advantage of the Valved Exhaust System: a large difference between valves-open and valves-closed operation.

THREE EXHAUST TIP CONFIGURATIONS

SOUL currently offers three tip choices:

Reuse OEM Tips

Retains the factory Porsche exhaust-tip appearance and provides the lowest purchase price.

X-50 Style Polished

Adds SOUL's polished X-50-inspired dual-outlet tip design.

X-50 Style Black Chrome

Provides the same X-50-inspired styling with a darker Black Chrome finish.

REUSE OEM TIPS

For owners who prefer the original appearance, the complete exhaust can be ordered to reuse the factory Porsche tips.

This keeps the rear of the car visually stock while changing the sound and flow architecture underneath.

X-50 STYLE TIPS

SOUL's optional X-50 Style tips reference the distinctive appearance associated with Porsche's higher-output 996 Turbo configurations.

They are available in:

• Polished

• Black Chrome

These are included as exhaust-system options rather than requiring the customer to purchase a separate tip set afterward.

T304L STAINLESS-STEEL CONSTRUCTION

SOUL constructs the system from:

.065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

The material provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycles

MANDREL-BENT TUBING

The exhaust tubing is mandrel bent to maintain the intended internal cross-sectional area throughout changes in direction.

This helps preserve:

• Exhaust flow

• Internal geometry

• Fitment

• Consistency between components

BACK-PURGED TIG WELDING

SOUL uses back-purged TIG welding with:

ARCAL Prime argon

during fabrication.

Back purging protects the interior surface of the stainless tubing while welding and helps produce:

• Cleaner internal weld surfaces

• Reduced oxidation

• Proper weld penetration

• High structural durability

PRECISION WATERJET-CUT FLANGES

SOUL uses waterjet-cut flanges manufactured to very tight dimensional tolerances.

The current manufacturer specification calls out tolerances of approximately:

±0.003 inch

for these components.

Accurate flange geometry helps maintain:

• Proper sealing

• Exhaust alignment

• Valve-system positioning

• Reliable bolt-on installation

THICK-GAUGE ALUMINUM FABRICATION FIXTURES

The exhaust is constructed in thick-gauge aluminum fixtures that also act as heat sinks during fabrication.

Controlling heat during welding helps reduce:

• Warping

• Dimensional change

• Flange movement

• Pipe misalignment

This allows the completed system to maintain consistent geometry from one production unit to the next.

FIXTURE-TESTED BEFORE SHIPPING

SOUL fixture-tests each system as part of its quality-control process.

The components are then carefully packed to protect them during shipment.

INSTALLATION HARDWARE INCLUDED

SOUL states that all required installation hardware is included with the system.

The exhaust is designed as a bolt-on system without permanent chassis modification during normal installation.

HOMELINK INTEGRATION

The valve-control system can be configured to work with the Porsche's HomeLink buttons.

This provides a clean method of controlling exhaust behavior without permanently adding an obvious aftermarket switch to the cabin.

The exact valve-control setup should be configured during installation according to the supplied SOUL hardware and instructions.

WITH SOUL SPORT HEADERS

The Valved Exhaust System can be combined with SOUL's 996/997 Turbo Sport Headers.

The headers improve the exhaust path upstream of the turbochargers, while the Valved Exhaust System manages the exhaust downstream.

Together, the components address:

Cylinder Heads → Headers → Turbochargers → Catalyst / Exhaust System → Tips

for a more comprehensive exhaust-flow upgrade.

PERFORMANCE

SOUL describes the full 3-inch valves-open path as being designed to maximize performance and throttle response.

However, the current product page does not provide a controlled factory-exhaust versus Valved-Exhaust dyno result.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific horsepower or torque gain for this product alone.

Actual performance gains will also depend heavily on:

• Catalyst configuration

• ECU calibration

• Turbocharger configuration

• Boost level

• Intake system

• Headers

• Other engine modifications

HIGH-POWER APPLICATIONS

The large 3-inch primary path makes the system particularly relevant for modified 996 Turbo builds.

The platform responds strongly to:

• ECU tuning

• Increased boost

• Turbocharger upgrades

• Intercooler upgrades

• Intake changes

• Header upgrades

A less restrictive downstream exhaust becomes increasingly important as airflow and engine output increase.

NO PUBLISHED WEIGHT FIGURE

SOUL's current Valved Exhaust System page does not publish a verified system weight or factory-versus-SOUL weight comparison.

DasMotoring therefore does not borrow the weight figures from the separate SOUL Competition or Sport X-Pipe systems.

Those are different exhaust assemblies and should be treated independently.

EMISSIONS / COMPETITION NOTE

The Competition / Catless configuration removes the catalytic converters and is intended for appropriate closed-course or off-road use.

The Sport / Catted configuration retains aftermarket high-flow catalytic converters but should not be represented as original Porsche emissions equipment.

Customers are responsible for determining whether their selected configuration and intended use comply with applicable emissions regulations.

Product Description

The SOUL Valved Side Mufflers are a premium dual-mode exhaust upgrade developed specifically for the 2002–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4S equipped with Porsche Sport Exhaust / PSE, preserving the factory exhaust-valve controls while dramatically expanding the range between quiet cruising and aggressive performance sound.

With the valves open, SOUL's freer-flowing exhaust path delivers a Cup car-inspired naturally aspirated flat-six sound with substantially greater volume, mechanical character, and high-RPM intensity. Close the valves and exhaust is redirected through SOUL's proprietary drone-fighting mufflers, significantly reducing cabin resonance and creating a refined sound appropriate for commuting, highway driving, and longer trips.

Because the system is fully compatible with the Carrera 4S's factory valve controls, there is no need to replace Porsche's original PSE operating strategy with a separate aftermarket controller.

The SOUL Valved Side Mufflers weigh approximately 35.4 lbs compared with 49.9 lbs for the factory PSE exhaust system, removing approximately 14.5 lbs / 6.5 kg from the rear of the car.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Coupe with factory PSE

• Fits 2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet with factory PSE

• Designed specifically for the 996 Carrera 4S

• Designed for the naturally aspirated 3.6L flat-six

• Factory Porsche Sport Exhaust / PSE valve controls retained

• Compatible with the factory catalytic converters

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• Compatible with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• Compatible with applicable SOUL 996 catalyst and X-pipe components

• Does not fit standard narrow-body 996 Carrera / Carrera 4 / Targa rear-muffler applications

• Does not fit 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3

DETAILS:

• Pair of Valved Side Mufflers

• True dual-mode exhaust operation

• Fully compatible with factory Porsche exhaust-valve controls

• Aggressive, freer-flowing exhaust character with valves open

• Cup car-inspired valves-open sound

• Proprietary SOUL drone-fighting mufflers with valves closed

• Refined cabin presence during cruising

• Designed to minimize undesirable cabin resonance

• Particularly effective even when paired with aftermarket catalyst upgrades

• Increased naturally aspirated flat-six volume and mechanical tone

• Transformational difference between open and closed modes

• Approximately 35.4 lbs / 16.1 kg

• Factory PSE exhaust system approximately 49.9 lbs / 22.6 kg

• Saves approximately 14.5 lbs / 6.5 kg

• Approximately 29% lighter than the corresponding factory PSE exhaust

• Mandrel-bent T304L stainless-steel construction

• .060-inch wall thickness

• Bespoke SOUL mufflers

• Laser-cut mounting brackets

• Nearly 15 fabrication man-hours per set

• Built and tested in thick-gauge aluminum fixtures

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• Quality checked and foam packed

• Available with Polished Chrome tips

• Available with Black Chrome tips

• Designed and built in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

DESIGNED FOR FACTORY PSE CARRERA 4S

The 996 Carrera 4S was available with Porsche Sport Exhaust, giving the car two distinct exhaust behaviors through factory-controlled exhaust valves.

SOUL designed this system specifically to preserve that functionality while significantly improving both modes.

Rather than converting the car to a permanently loud exhaust, the Valved Side Mufflers retain the ability to switch between:

Refined / Valves Closed

and

Aggressive / Valves Open

using the Porsche factory valve-control system.

FULL FACTORY VALVE-CONTROL COMPATIBILITY

SOUL specifically states that the Valved Side Mufflers are:

Fully compatible with the factory valve controls.

That means the vehicle's existing PSE functionality remains integral to the system.

There is no need to add a separate aftermarket valve controller simply to operate the SOUL mufflers on an appropriately equipped Carrera 4S.

This is one of the primary differences between these mufflers and universal aftermarket valved systems.

VALVES OPEN

With the valves open, SOUL prioritizes a freer-flowing and much more aggressive exhaust character.

SOUL describes the result as:

Cup car-inspired sound.

Expect substantially greater:

• Flat-six engine character

• Acceleration volume

• Mechanical exhaust tone

• High-RPM intensity

• Throttle-related feedback

• Gear-change sound

• Deceleration presence

The naturally aspirated 3.6L flat-six becomes significantly more prominent than with the original PSE mufflers.

CUP CAR-INSPIRED CHARACTER

The valves-open mode is intended to give the Carrera 4S a much more motorsport-oriented character.

Rather than simply making the exhaust deeper, SOUL emphasizes the mechanical and higher-energy frequencies of the flat-six when the aggressive path is active.

The effect becomes particularly noticeable as engine speed increases.

This gives the car a much more dramatic personality during:

• Back-road driving

• High-RPM acceleration

• Track use

• Downshifts

• Full-throttle operation

VALVES CLOSED

Closing the valves places SOUL's proprietary drone-fighting mufflers back at the center of the exhaust path.

The objective is to create a dramatically calmer driving experience without eliminating the increased character of the upgraded system entirely.

With the valves closed, expect:

• Lower exterior volume

• Reduced cabin presence

• Reduced low-frequency resonance

• More comfortable highway cruising

• More restrained neighborhood operation

• Greater long-distance usability

PROPRIETARY DRONE-FIGHTING MUFFLERS

SOUL developed the quieter path around bespoke mufflers specifically intended to control undesirable cabin resonance.

This is particularly valuable on the 996 platform because aggressive catalyst and muffler modifications can easily introduce:

• Low-frequency drone

• Booming cabin resonance

• Harshness

• Excessive cruising volume

SOUL's goal was to retain a genuinely useful quiet mode rather than simply making one valve position slightly less loud.

TWO DISTINCT PERSONALITIES

The defining characteristic of this system is the difference between its two operating modes.

Valves Closed

• Refined

• Drone controlled

• Street friendly

• Comfortable for commuting

• Suitable for longer drives

Valves Open

• Aggressive

• Freer flowing

• Cup car inspired

• Much greater flat-six presence

• Dramatically increased high-RPM sound

SOUL describes the result as an OEM-plus system with transformational potential.

DESIGNED FOR DAILY USE

A 996 Carrera 4S is old enough today that many examples are enthusiast cars, but that does not necessarily mean owners want a permanently loud exhaust.

SOUL's dual-mode architecture allows the exhaust to remain suitable for:

• Daily driving

• Commuting

• Highway trips

• Residential areas

while still providing a much more aggressive experience when desired.

DEVELOPED TO WORK WITH AFTERMARKET CATALYSTS

SOUL specifically notes that the valves-open sound can be further amplified with aftermarket catalyst replacements.

More importantly, the valves-closed drone-fighting mufflers remain useful even when additional upstream exhaust modifications are installed.

This makes the system particularly well suited to a Carrera 4S that may eventually receive:

• SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• SOUL X-Pipe components

• SOUL Competition Headers

WITH FACTORY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

With Porsche's original catalytic converters retained, the Valved Side Mufflers provide the most conservative overall setup.

Expect:

Valves Closed

• Refined sound

• Controlled cruising volume

• Factory catalysts providing additional acoustic attenuation

Valves Open

• Strong increase in flat-six character

• More high-RPM sound

• Greater mechanical tone

• More aggressive throttle response acoustically

This is a strong configuration for a customer primarily interested in improving sound while leaving the upstream exhaust system original.

WITH SOUL SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

Pairing the Valved Side Mufflers with SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters provides a more comprehensive street-oriented exhaust system.

The Sport Cats add:

• Increased exhaust flow

• Deeper flat-six sound

• Greater overall volume

• Reduced catalyst restriction

while the Valved Side Mufflers retain the ability to significantly reduce cabin presence when desired.

This combination offers a much wider range of sound than using fixed Sport Side Mufflers with the same high-flow catalysts.

WITH SOUL CAT BYPASS PIPES

Pairing the Valved Side Mufflers with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes creates a considerably more aggressive configuration.

Expect substantially more:

• Exhaust volume

• Raw flat-six sound

• High-RPM intensity

• Deceleration character

• Cabin presence

with the valves open.

The presence of SOUL's drone-fighting muffler path becomes particularly valuable in this configuration because closing the valves provides meaningful acoustic control over an otherwise highly aggressive catless exhaust.

WITH SOUL COMPETITION HEADERS

The Valved Side Mufflers can also be combined with the shared SOUL 996 Carrera Competition Headers.

Those headers improve exhaust flow immediately after the cylinder heads through:

• Equal-length runners

• True 3-into-1 merge collectors

• Improved flange-to-primary transitions

while the Valved Side Mufflers manage the sound farther downstream.

DEDICATED CARRERA 4S REAR EXHAUST

The Carrera 4S uses different rear packaging from the normal narrow-body Carrera.

SOUL therefore developed a dedicated C4S exhaust rather than adapting the standard Carrera mufflers.

This product should not be confused with the standard:

996 Carrera Sport Side Mufflers

which explicitly do not fit the C4S.

VALVED VS. SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS

SOUL offers two dedicated rear-muffler solutions for the Carrera 4S.

SOUL Sport Side Mufflers

• Start at $3,175

• Fixed / non-valved sound

• Proprietary drone-fighting mufflers

• Increased flat-six sound

• Refined OEM-plus character

• Simpler architecture

• Lower price

SOUL Valved Side Mufflers

• Start at $4,555

• Retain factory PSE valve control

• Two distinct sound modes

• Cup car-inspired valves-open character

• Drone-fighting valves-closed operation

• Approximately 14.5 lbs lighter than factory PSE

• Much wider range of sound

For a factory-PSE-equipped C4S, the Valved Side Mufflers are the more complete solution if preserving active exhaust control matters.

14.5-LB WEIGHT REDUCTION

SOUL publishes:

Factory PSE Exhaust System:
approximately 49.9 lbs / 22.6 kg

SOUL Valved Side Mufflers:
approximately 35.4 lbs / 16.1 kg

Weight Savings:
approximately 14.5 lbs / 6.5 kg

That represents approximately a:

29% reduction

in the mass of the exhaust components being replaced.

This is a much larger weight reduction than the standard Carrera Sport Side Muffler system.

REAR-MOUNTED WEIGHT SAVINGS

The 14.5-lb reduction is particularly useful on a rear-engined 911 because the factory mufflers are positioned toward the back of the car.

While 14.5 lbs alone will not fundamentally change vehicle balance, reducing unnecessary mass at the extreme rear is directionally beneficial for a performance-oriented build.

.060-INCH-WALL T304L STAINLESS STEEL

SOUL constructs the system from:

Mandrel-bent .060-inch-wall T304L stainless-steel tubing

The comparatively thin-wall construction helps balance:

• Durability

• Strength

• Corrosion resistance

• Reduced mass

• High-temperature performance

SOUL's current page does not publish an exact tubing diameter, so DasMotoring does not assign one.

BESPOKE SOUL MUFFLERS

The system uses mufflers developed specifically for the intended sound and resonance behavior of this application.

These are not simply generic universal mufflers welded into model-specific pipework.

The muffler architecture is central to producing the quieter valves-closed experience.

LASER-CUT BRACKETS

SOUL uses precision laser-cut brackets to locate the exhaust correctly within the Carrera 4S rear chassis.

Accurate mounting geometry helps maintain:

• Muffler position

• Exhaust-tip alignment

• Chassis clearance

• Valve-system alignment

• Consistent installation

NEARLY 15 MAN-HOURS PER SET

SOUL states that nearly:

15 man-hours

of fabrication labor are invested into each set of Valved Side Mufflers.

The labor-intensive construction reflects the added complexity of producing:

• Two exhaust flow behaviors

• Valved routing

• Bespoke mufflers

• Model-specific brackets

• Accurate tip alignment

within the restricted packaging available behind the 996 Carrera 4S.

THICK-GAUGE ALUMINUM FIXTURES

Each exhaust is built and tested in a thick-gauge aluminum fabrication fixture.

The fixture helps control heat-related distortion and maintains repeatable:

• Pipe geometry

• Muffler position

• Valve positioning

• Mounting-point alignment

• Exhaust-tip alignment

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Every system is checked in its production fixture before shipment.

SOUL performs a final quality-control inspection and then foam packs the mufflers to help protect the finished components in transit.

POLISHED CHROME TIPS

The Polished Chrome configuration provides a traditional bright-metal appearance appropriate to the period styling of the 996 Carrera 4S.

Price: $4,555.00

BLACK CHROME TIPS

The Black Chrome configuration provides a darker and more understated rear appearance.

Price: $4,795.00

The Black Chrome option carries a:

$240 premium

over Polished Chrome.

NO PUBLISHED HORSEPOWER CLAIM

SOUL does not publish a controlled stock-PSE-versus-Valved-Side-Muffler dyno comparison for this product.

The system's primary documented benefits are:

• Sound control

• Increased valves-open sound

• Reduced valves-closed resonance

• Factory PSE integration

• Substantial weight reduction

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a numerical horsepower or torque increase from the mufflers alone.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

No ECU calibration is required to install the Valved Side Mufflers.

On a properly equipped Carrera 4S, the system uses the existing factory valve-control functionality.

The mufflers do not themselves replace:

• Catalytic converters

• Oxygen sensors

• Headers

• ECU hardware

EMISSIONS SYSTEM REMAINS UPSTREAM

The Valved Side Mufflers are downstream exhaust components.

Installing the mufflers alone does not remove the vehicle's catalytic converters.

Emissions considerations will depend on whatever upstream catalyst configuration is installed on the vehicle.

Product Description

The SOUL Sport Side Mufflers are a dedicated exhaust upgrade for the 2002–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4S, developed specifically around the C4S's unique wide-body rear exhaust packaging.

SOUL uses proprietary drone-fighting mufflers to increase the naturally aspirated 3.6L flat-six's volume and mechanical character under moderate and aggressive throttle while maintaining a refined, OEM-plus cabin presence during cruising.

Rather than simply making the 996 louder, SOUL focused on avoiding the excessive rasp, harshness, and low-frequency cabin resonance that can result from overly aggressive exhaust modifications. The Sport Side Mufflers were developed alongside SOUL's high-flow catalytic-converter upgrades so that the system remains controlled even when additional upstream exhaust restriction is removed.

Each system is hand fabricated from 2.25-inch, .065-inch-wall T304L stainless-steel tubing, bespoke SOUL mufflers, and laser-cut brackets. Polished Chrome and Black Chrome exhaust-tip finishes are available.

FITMENT:

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Coupe

• Fits 2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• Designed specifically for the 996 Carrera 4S

• Designed for the naturally aspirated 3.6L flat-six

• Dedicated C4S rear-muffler architecture

• Compatible with factory catalytic converters

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• Compatible with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• Compatible with applicable SOUL 996 catalyst / X-pipe components

• Does not fit standard narrow-body 996 Carrera / Carrera 4 / Targa muffler applications

• Does not fit 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3

DETAILS:

• Pair of dedicated Carrera 4S Sport Side Mufflers

• Proprietary SOUL drone-fighting muffler design

• Designed for increased naturally aspirated flat-six sound

• Increased mechanical engine tone under throttle

• Refined OEM-plus cruising character

• Designed to minimize undesirable cabin resonance

• Developed to avoid excessive rasp

• Designed to remain refined with upgraded high-flow catalytic converters

• Fixed, non-valved exhaust architecture

• 2.25-inch diameter tubing

• .065-inch wall thickness

• T304L stainless-steel construction

• Smooth mandrel-bent tubing

• Bespoke SOUL mufflers

• Laser-cut mounting brackets

• Back-purged TIG welding

• ARCAL Prime argon shielding gas used during fabrication

• Built in thick-gauge aluminum fixtures to control distortion

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• New high-grade bolts, washers, and nuts included

• Available with Polished Chrome tips

• Available with Black Chrome tips

• Designed and manufactured in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

DEDICATED CARRERA 4S DESIGN

The 996 Carrera 4S uses different rear exhaust packaging from the standard narrow-body Carrera.

For that reason, SOUL offers these as a dedicated C4S muffler system rather than using the standard 996 Carrera Sport Side Mufflers.

This distinction is important:

Standard 996 Carrera Sport Side Mufflers

do not fit the Carrera 4S.

The C4S requires this dedicated system.

PROPRIETARY DRONE-FIGHTING MUFFLERS

The core of the system is SOUL's proprietary muffler design.

SOUL's goal was to increase the desirable mechanical frequencies of the flat-six without introducing the unpleasant characteristics often associated with aggressively modified 996 exhaust systems.

The mufflers are designed to provide:

• Increased sound under acceleration

• Greater flat-six mechanical character

• Stronger high-RPM presence

• Controlled low-RPM resonance

• Refined highway cruising

• Reduced undesirable drone

This makes the system particularly appropriate for a street-driven Carrera 4S.

OEM-PLUS CRUISING CHARACTER

During steady-speed cruising, the system is intended to maintain a relatively restrained cabin environment.

SOUL specifically focuses on preserving an:

OEM-plus cabin presence

rather than producing constant high exhaust volume.

The mufflers contain substantial sound-attenuating material to control unwanted frequencies during normal driving.

MORE SOUND UNDER THROTTLE

The character changes as engine load increases.

Under moderate and aggressive throttle, expect:

• Increased exhaust volume

• More mechanical flat-six tone

• Stronger acceleration sound

• Greater high-RPM presence

• More direct throttle-related feedback

The system therefore becomes substantially more engaging when the car is driven hard without requiring constant high volume during normal cruising.

DEVELOPED TO AVOID RASP

The naturally aspirated 996 responds strongly to catalyst and muffler changes.

Unfortunately, removing too much sound attenuation can also create a metallic or excessively raspy exhaust tone.

SOUL specifically developed the Sport Side Mufflers to avoid that result.

The objective was a system with:

• Greater volume

• Greater engine character

• More aggressive sound

without:

• Excessive rasp

• Harsh resonance

• Booming cabin frequencies

• Fatiguing highway noise

DEVELOPED WITH SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

SOUL developed these mufflers while using freer-flowing Sport Catalytic Converters.

That is important because reducing catalyst restriction increases both exhaust energy and sound before the gases reach the rear mufflers.

The Sport Side Mufflers therefore include enough acoustic control to remain usable even when paired with upgraded catalysts.

WITH FACTORY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

With the original Porsche catalysts retained, the Sport Side Mufflers provide the most conservative configuration.

Expect:

• Increased flat-six tone

• Greater acceleration volume

• More mechanical character

• Retained factory catalyst attenuation

• Comfortable cruising behavior

This is a good configuration for an owner wanting improved sound without dramatically changing the rest of the exhaust.

WITH SOUL SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

Pairing the mufflers with SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters creates a more complete street-oriented exhaust system.

The combination provides:

• Increased exhaust flow

• Greater naturally aspirated flat-six character

• Increased overall volume

• Deeper and more mechanical exhaust tone

• High-flow catalysts

• SOUL's proprietary drone control

This is one of the more balanced complete exhaust combinations for a street-driven 996 Carrera 4S.

WITH SOUL CAT BYPASS PIPES

For a substantially more aggressive configuration, the Sport Side Mufflers can be paired with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes.

Expect:

• Much greater exhaust volume

• More raw exhaust character

• Additional high-frequency content

• Increased deceleration sound

• Greater cabin presence

The Sport Side Mufflers will continue providing more acoustic control than a muffler-delete system, but removing the catalysts significantly changes the overall sound level and character.

FIXED / NON-VALVED DESIGN

These Sport Side Mufflers are a fixed, non-valved exhaust system.

There is no active quiet mode or exhaust-valve control built into this product.

SOUL separately offers 996 Carrera 4S Valved Side Mufflers for customers who want to retain a factory-style dual-mode exhaust experience.

For a Carrera 4S originally equipped with Porsche Sport Exhaust, the Valved Side Mufflers are the more appropriate SOUL product if retaining valve functionality is important.

SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS VS. VALVED SIDE MUFFLERS

SOUL Sport Side Mufflers

• Start at $3,175

• Fixed exhaust character

• Proprietary drone-fighting mufflers

• Increased flat-six sound under throttle

• Refined cruising behavior

• Simpler architecture

• Lower purchase price

SOUL Valved Side Mufflers

• Start at $4,555

• Active exhaust valves

• Quiet valves-closed mode

• Free-flowing valves-open mode

• Cup-car-inspired open-valve sound

• Compatible with factory valve controls

• Greater range between quiet and aggressive operation

Customers who do not need active sound control can save substantial cost with the Sport Side Mufflers.

2.25-INCH TUBING

SOUL constructs the system from:

2.25-inch-diameter tubing

This size is appropriately matched to the naturally aspirated 3.6L Carrera 4S application.

The design prioritizes:

• Exhaust velocity

• Packaging

• Sound quality

• Consistent fitment

• Street drivability

rather than unnecessarily oversized tubing.

.065-INCH-WALL T304L STAINLESS STEEL

Each muffler assembly is constructed from:

.065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

T304L provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Suitable durability for street and track heat cycles

MANDREL-BENT TUBING

SOUL uses mandrel-bent tubing to preserve internal cross-sectional area through each bend.

This helps maintain consistent:

• Tubing diameter

• Exhaust flow

• Internal geometry

• Fitment

through the compact rear packaging of the Carrera 4S.

LASER-CUT BRACKETS

Precision laser-cut brackets locate the mufflers within the C4S rear chassis.

Consistent bracket geometry helps maintain:

• Correct muffler position

• Exhaust-tip alignment

• Chassis clearance

• Mounting-point alignment

BACK-PURGED TIG WELDING

SOUL uses back-purged TIG welding during fabrication.

SOUL specifically uses:

ARCAL Prime argon

as its shielding gas.

Back purging helps provide:

• Cleaner internal weld surfaces

• Proper weld penetration

• Reduced internal oxidation

• Long-term durability

THICK-GAUGE ALUMINUM FIXTURES

Each set is built and tested in a thick-gauge aluminum fixture.

The fixture helps control distortion from the heat generated during welding.

This supports consistent:

• Muffler location

• Tubing geometry

• Bracket positioning

• Tip alignment

from one system to the next.

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Every completed exhaust is checked in its production fixture before shipment.

SOUL then performs final quality control and foam packs the mufflers to help protect them during transportation.

NEW INSTALLATION HARDWARE

SOUL supplies new:

• High-grade bolts

• Washers

• Nuts

with the system.

This reduces the need to reuse all of the original 20-plus-year-old muffler hardware during installation.

Existing clamps, fasteners, and surrounding exhaust hardware should still be inspected and replaced where necessary.

POLISHED CHROME TIPS

The Polished Chrome configuration provides a bright, traditional exhaust finish that complements the period styling of the 996 Carrera 4S.

Price: $3,175.00

BLACK CHROME TIPS

The Black Chrome configuration provides a darker and more understated rear appearance.

Price: $3,415.00

The Black Chrome option therefore carries a:

$240 premium

over Polished Chrome.

NO PUBLISHED HORSEPOWER CLAIM

SOUL's current product page focuses on:

• Exhaust tone

• Drone management

• Construction

• Fitment

• Daily drivability

It does not provide a controlled factory-muffler versus Sport-Muffler dyno result.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific horsepower or torque increase from the Sport Side Mufflers alone.

NO VERIFIED CURRENT WEIGHT FIGURE

SOUL's current Carrera 4S Sport Side Muffler page does not publish a factory-versus-SOUL weight comparison.

The standard narrow-body 996 Carrera Sport Side Mufflers have published weight data, but they are a different physical muffler system.

DasMotoring therefore should not reuse the narrow-body 5.1-lb weight-savings figure for the Carrera 4S product.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

No ECU calibration is required to install the Sport Side Mufflers.

They do not themselves replace:

• Catalytic converters

• Oxygen sensors

• Headers

• Engine-management hardware

They are a downstream mechanical exhaust upgrade.

Product Description

The SOUL Competition Headers are a direct bolt-on performance upgrade for the 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera, replacing the restrictive factory exhaust manifolds with equal-length T304L stainless-steel runners and true 3-into-1 merge collectors.

Unlike many products carrying the “Competition” name, these headers do not remove the catalytic converters. On the 996 Carrera, Porsche locates the catalysts farther downstream in the rear exhaust assemblies, allowing SOUL to focus entirely on improving exhaust flow between the cylinder heads and the existing catalyst section.

SOUL improves the factory flow path with port-matched flanges, smooth-radius large-diameter primary tubes, equal-length runners, and a collector that gives each cylinder a more effective path into a true 3-to-1 merge. The factory manifolds do not use the same true merge-collector architecture.

The result is improved exhaust flow, stronger throttle response, and noticeably greater torque under acceleration without requiring removal of the vehicle's catalytic converters or changing the basic emissions architecture.

SOUL also designed the headers with increased internal volume to better support the later 3.6L 996 Carrera engines, while retaining compatibility across the complete naturally aspirated 996 Carrera range.

FITMENT:

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera Cabriolet

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S

• Fits 2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• Fits applicable 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Targa

• Compatible with 996.1 and 996.2 Carrera

• Compatible with naturally aspirated 3.4L and 3.6L Carrera engines

• Compatible with the factory catalytic-converter assemblies

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• Compatible with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• Compatible with SOUL 996 X-Pipe configurations

• Compatible with factory or appropriate SOUL rear mufflers

• Does not fit 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3 applications

DETAILS:

• Pair of performance Competition Headers

• Equal-length primary runners

• True 3-into-1 merge collectors

• Improves on the factory manifold's non-merge collector architecture

• Port-matched cylinder-head flanges

• Smooth flange-to-primary transitions

• Smooth-radius primary tubing

• Large-diameter primary bends

• Equalized collector inputs from all three cylinders

• Increased internal volume for later 3.6L applications

• Designed to improve exhaust flow

• Designed to increase usable torque and response

• Retains downstream catalytic converters when used with the factory exhaust

• Does not require catalyst removal

• Does not inherently alter oxygen-sensor or catalyst-monitoring architecture

• T304L stainless-steel construction

• Direct bolt-on installation

• Approximately 2 lbs / 0.9 kg lighter than the corresponding factory header components

• Fixture-tested before shipment

• Foam-packed after quality control

• Detailed installation instructions included

• No product variants

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

TRUE 3-INTO-1 MERGE COLLECTORS

One of the most significant differences between the factory manifolds and the SOUL Competition Headers is the collector design.

Each bank of Porsche's flat-six must combine three individual exhaust runners into a single outlet.

The original manifolds do not use what SOUL considers a true:

3-into-1 merge collector

SOUL redesigns this area so that each primary runner feeds the collector more evenly.

The goal is to create a smoother transition from:

Cylinder Head → Primary Runner → Merge Collector → Downstream Exhaust

rather than forcing the gases through the less optimized factory junction.

EQUAL-LENGTH PRIMARY RUNNERS

SOUL uses equal-length runners to provide a more consistent path from each cylinder to the collector.

This architecture is intended to improve how the exhaust pulses from all three cylinders on each bank enter the collector.

The design focuses on:

• Consistent exhaust routing

• Improved collector entry

• Smoother exhaust flow

• Better utilization of exhaust pulse energy

• Increased performance potential

PORT-MATCHED FLANGES

The transition immediately after the cylinder head is an important part of header design.

SOUL uses port-matched flanges to create a cleaner interface between the cylinder-head exhaust ports and the primary tubes.

An abrupt step or poorly matched transition can create unnecessary turbulence at the beginning of the exhaust path.

SOUL instead focuses on smoothing the transition from the flange into the primary runners.

SMOOTH FLANGE-TO-PRIMARY TRANSITION

The SOUL design specifically addresses the interface between:

Flange → Primary Tube

This area is optimized to reduce abrupt changes in geometry as the exhaust gases leave the cylinder head.

The objective is a cleaner path through the entire manifold rather than simply using larger tubing.

SMOOTH-RADIUS PRIMARY TUBING

SOUL uses smooth-radius bends through the primary runners rather than abrupt exhaust routing.

This helps maintain:

• Consistent internal geometry

• Exhaust velocity

• Smooth directional changes

• Reduced localized restriction

The result is a more carefully controlled exhaust path before the gases reach the collector.

DESIGNED FOR BOTH 3.4L AND 3.6L ENGINES

The 996 Carrera platform spans both:

3.4L

and

3.6L

naturally aspirated flat-six engines.

SOUL specifically notes that its header design provides greater internal volume for the 3.6L applications while remaining compatible across the 1999–2004 Carrera platform.

This allows one header design to serve the complete naturally aspirated 996 Carrera family.

IMPROVED EXHAUST FLOW

The factory 996 Carrera manifolds leave room for improvement in several areas:

• Primary-runner transition

• Bend geometry

• Collector design

• Collector entry from each cylinder

SOUL addresses all of these areas simultaneously.

Rather than focusing on one oversized pipe dimension, the system improves the complete path from the cylinder head into the downstream exhaust.

STRONGER TORQUE RESPONSE

SOUL specifically describes the Competition Headers as producing noticeably more torque when the throttle is applied.

This makes sense as a header-focused modification because the goal is not simply maximum peak horsepower at redline.

Improving exhaust flow can also affect:

• Midrange response

• Part-throttle response

• Engine willingness to rev

• Acceleration throughout the usable RPM range

SOUL does not publish a numerical torque gain, so DasMotoring does not assign a specific lb-ft figure to the headers.

NO PUBLISHED DYNO NUMBER

The current SOUL product page does not provide a controlled factory-header versus Competition-Header dyno chart.

SOUL describes increased exhaust flow, stronger torque, and increased power potential, but does not publish a verified:

• Peak horsepower gain

• Peak torque gain

• RPM-specific gain

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a numerical horsepower or torque increase for this product.

RETAINS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

The term Competition Headers can easily create the impression that this is a catless product.

It is not.

On the 996 Carrera, the catalytic converters are incorporated farther downstream in the rear exhaust system.

The headers themselves replace only the original exhaust manifolds.

When installed with the original rear exhaust, the vehicle retains:

• Factory catalytic converters

• Factory catalyst monitoring

• Downstream emissions hardware

• Factory mufflers

This makes the headers fundamentally different from SOUL's:

• Cat Bypass Pipes

• Competition X-Pipe

both of which can remove the catalytic converters.

NO CATALYST-RELATED CEL EXPECTED FROM THE HEADERS

Because the Competition Headers do not remove the catalytic converters or alter the catalyst-monitoring architecture, SOUL specifically developed the system without introducing check-engine-light issues associated with catalyst deletion.

This does not mean that no 20+ year-old vehicle can ever produce a diagnostic fault, but there is no catalyst-delete mechanism inherent to the header installation itself.

NO ECU TUNE REQUIRED

SOUL does not specify ECU calibration as a requirement for installation.

The headers are designed as a mechanical bolt-on upgrade.

A tune may potentially extract additional benefit when combined with other engine modifications, but it is not necessary simply to install the headers.

WITH FACTORY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

The simplest configuration is:

SOUL Competition Headers + Factory Catalysts + Factory Rear Exhaust

This provides:

• Improved header flow

• True 3-into-1 merge collectors

• Reduced header weight

• Retained factory catalysts

• Retained factory mufflers

• Comparatively subtle sound change

For a customer primarily interested in improving engine response without dramatically increasing exhaust volume, this is a logical first-stage configuration.

WITH SOUL SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

Pairing the Competition Headers with the SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters creates a more comprehensive performance exhaust configuration.

The combination addresses:

Headers:
Flow immediately after the cylinder heads

and

Sport Catalytic Converters:
Restriction farther downstream in the catalyst section

This provides:

• Improved manifold flow

• High-flow catalysts

• Increased flat-six sound

• Reduced exhaust restriction

• Greater overall performance potential

while retaining catalytic converters.

WITH SOUL CAT BYPASS PIPES

For a more aggressive configuration, the headers can be paired with SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes.

This combines:

• Equal-length headers

• True 3-to-1 merge collectors

• Catless split-bank catalyst replacement

• Reduced exhaust restriction

• Greater flat-six volume

• Increased exhaust character

The emissions and CEL considerations in this configuration are created by the Cat Bypass Pipes, not by the Competition Headers themselves.

WITH SOUL X-PIPE

The Competition Headers are also compatible with SOUL's larger 996 X-Pipe architecture.

Depending on the selected X-Pipe configuration, the customer can choose:

• Catted X-Pipe

• Catless Competition X-Pipe

This gives the owner considerable flexibility in building the rest of the exhaust downstream from the headers.

WITH FACTORY REAR MUFFLERS

Because the headers do not require a rear exhaust replacement, they can be installed while retaining the factory mufflers.

This configuration maintains the greatest amount of Porsche's original sound attenuation.

Any sound increase from the headers themselves should therefore remain significantly more restrained than changes produced by replacing the catalyst or rear muffler sections.

WITH SOUL SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS

Combining the Competition Headers with SOUL Sport Side Mufflers further increases naturally aspirated flat-six character while retaining SOUL's proprietary drone-control strategy.

A full street-oriented SOUL configuration can therefore combine:

Competition Headers

Sport Catalytic Converters

Sport Side Mufflers

for improvements throughout the exhaust system without requiring a completely catless configuration.

2-LB WEIGHT REDUCTION

SOUL specifies that the Competition Headers weigh approximately:

2 lbs / 0.9 kg less

than the corresponding factory components.

SOUL does not currently publish the individual absolute weights of:

• Factory headers

• SOUL Competition Headers

so DasMotoring does not invent or extrapolate those figures.

T304L STAINLESS-STEEL CONSTRUCTION

The Competition Headers are fabricated from:

T304L stainless steel

This material provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycling

SOUL does not currently publish a wall thickness for this product, so DasMotoring does not assign one.

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Each set of Competition Headers is tested in a dedicated manufacturing fixture before shipment.

This helps verify:

• Cylinder-head flange alignment

• Primary-runner positioning

• Collector alignment

• Downstream exhaust fitment

• Overall dimensional consistency

Each set is then quality inspected and foam packed before shipment.

DIRECT BOLT-ON INSTALLATION

SOUL describes these headers as one of the easier performance upgrades available for the 996 Carrera.

The system is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the original manifolds.

SOUL includes detailed installation instructions, and no permanent chassis modification is required for normal installation.

COMPETITION HEADERS VS. FACTORY HEADERS

Factory Headers

• Non-optimized collector architecture

• No true 3-into-1 merge collector

• Less optimized flange-to-primary transition

• Factory exhaust flow characteristics

• Approximately 2 lbs heavier

SOUL Competition Headers

• Equal-length runners

• True 3-into-1 merge collectors

• Port-matched flanges

• Smooth-radius primary tubing

• More equal collector inputs

• Increased internal volume for 3.6L applications

• Approximately 2 lbs lighter

• Retains downstream catalyst compatibility

COMPETITION DOES NOT MEAN CATLESS

Within the SOUL 996 catalog, the naming can be confusing.

Competition Headers

do not remove the catalytic converters.

By contrast:

Competition X-Pipe

is the catless X-pipe configuration.

The Competition Header name refers to the performance-oriented manifold design, not catalyst deletion.

This distinction is important when building a complete DasMotoring exhaust package.

Product Description

The SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes are a direct-fit, completely catless performance upgrade for the 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera, replacing the restrictive factory catalytic-converter assemblies with lightweight 2.25-inch T304L stainless-steel bypass pipes.

SOUL developed these pipes with particular attention to the naturally aspirated 996's exhaust character. Rather than joining the left and right cylinder banks with an X-pipe, SOUL deliberately uses a split-bank design after back-to-back testing showed that keeping the banks separated preserved more of the deep frequencies and distinctive character of Porsche's flat-six.

The result is substantially increased exhaust volume, a deeper and fuller flat-six tone, additional rasp, improved throttle response, and a rawer exhaust character that SOUL describes as having a hint of an air-cooled Porsche sound.

At approximately 8.75 lbs, the SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes are approximately 6.25 lbs / 2.8 kg lighter than the roughly 15-lb factory catalytic-converter assemblies they replace.

FITMENT:

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera Cabriolet

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S

• Fits 2004 Porsche 996 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 911 Targa

• Compatible with both 996.1 and 996.2 Carrera

• Fits applicable 3.4L and 3.6L naturally aspirated Carrera engines

• Compatible with the factory rear mufflers

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Side Mufflers where applicable

• Compatible with Carrera 4S-specific SOUL rear mufflers

• Does not fit 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3

DETAILS:

• Pair of completely catless Cat Bypass Pipes

• Replaces both factory catalytic-converter assemblies

• Split-bank exhaust architecture

• Left and right cylinder banks remain separated

• Specifically developed after comparison testing against an X-pipe configuration

• Designed for a deeper, fuller 996 flat-six exhaust tone

• Increased overall exhaust volume

• Additional exhaust rasp and mechanical character

• Increased throttle response

• Improved overall drivability

• Increased performance potential

• 2.25-inch outside-diameter tubing

• .065-inch wall thickness

• T304L stainless-steel construction

• Smooth mandrel bends

• Thick exhaust flanges

• New header-flange hardware included

• Approximately 8.75 lbs / 4.0 kg

• Factory components approximately 15 lbs / 6.8 kg

• Saves approximately 6.25 lbs / 2.8 kg

• Approximately 42% lighter than the factory catalyst assemblies

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• Foam-packed following quality inspection

• May trigger a catalyst-related check engine light

• Designed and manufactured in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• No product variants

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

COMPLETE CATALYTIC-CONVERTER DELETE

The SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes completely eliminate the original Porsche catalytic converters.

The factory catalysts create a significant restriction in the 996 Carrera exhaust system while also absorbing a considerable amount of the naturally aspirated flat-six's sound.

SOUL replaces these assemblies with unrestricted stainless-steel pipes.

The result provides:

• Reduced exhaust restriction

• Increased exhaust-flow capacity

• Greater flat-six sound

• Increased throttle response

• Reduced exhaust-system weight

• Greater performance potential

The tradeoff is that the vehicle no longer retains catalytic converters.

SPLIT-BANK EXHAUST DESIGN

One of the most interesting aspects of this product is SOUL's decision not to use an X-pipe.

The left and right cylinder-bank exhaust streams remain separate through the catalyst-replacement section.

SOUL specifically tested:

Split-Bank Pipes

against:

X-Pipe Architecture

during development.

The company ultimately preferred the sound produced by keeping the two banks independent.

WHY SOUL CHOSE SPLIT BANKS

During back-to-back testing, SOUL found that an X-pipe changed the sound of the 996 in a way it did not prefer.

The X-pipe produced a more blended and comparatively hollow tone while reducing some of the deeper exhaust frequencies.

Separating the banks instead produced:

• Greater volume

• Deeper exhaust frequencies

• Fuller flat-six tone

• Increased individual-bank character

• A slight additional rasp

• More mechanical exhaust texture

SOUL ultimately selected the split-bank architecture for the production Cat Bypass Pipes.

DEEPER, FULLER FLAT-SIX SOUND

The 996 Carrera's naturally aspirated flat-six is especially responsive to changes in the catalyst section.

Removing the original catalysts allows considerably more of the engine's exhaust character to reach the rear mufflers.

Expect:

• Louder cold starts

• Greater idle presence

• Increased acceleration sound

• Deeper midrange exhaust tone

• Stronger high-RPM presence

• Increased throttle-related sound

• Additional exhaust rasp

• Greater deceleration character

The final sound level depends heavily on the rear mufflers installed behind the Cat Bypass Pipes.

AIR-COOLED-INSPIRED CHARACTER

SOUL describes the split-bank Cat Bypass configuration as having a slight:

air-cooled-inspired exhaust character

due to the combination of:

• Deeper frequencies

• Independent exhaust banks

• Increased mechanical character

• Additional rasp

• Reduced sound attenuation

This does not mean a 996 becomes acoustically identical to an air-cooled 911, but it describes the direction SOUL pursued when developing the system.

IMPROVED THROTTLE RESPONSE

SOUL specifically identifies improved:

throttle response

and:

overall drivability

as benefits of the Cat Bypass Pipes.

Reducing restriction in the catalyst section allows the naturally aspirated engine to move exhaust gases more freely.

For the driver, SOUL characterizes the result as a more immediate and responsive feel in addition to the increased sound.

PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL

Removing the restrictive factory catalytic converters increases available exhaust-flow capacity.

This can become especially useful when the vehicle also has:

• ECU tuning

• Intake modifications

• Headers

• Performance rear mufflers

• Other naturally aspirated engine modifications

However, SOUL does not publish a controlled before-and-after dyno result for the Cat Bypass Pipes alone.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific numerical horsepower or torque gain.

WITH FACTORY SIDE MUFFLERS

The Cat Bypass Pipes can be installed while retaining Porsche's original rear mufflers.

This provides the most conservative catless configuration.

Expect:

• Significantly increased engine character

• Deeper exhaust tone

• Increased throttle response

• More high-RPM sound

• Retained factory rear muffler attenuation

• OEM rear appearance

For a customer wanting substantially more sound without replacing every exhaust component at once, this is the logical starting point.

WITH SOUL SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS

The Cat Bypass Pipes can also be combined with SOUL's Sport Side Mufflers.

The result provides:

• Catless catalyst section

• Increased flat-six sound

• Greater overall volume

• Stronger high-RPM character

• SOUL's proprietary drone-fighting rear mufflers

• Reduced overall exhaust restriction

Because SOUL's Sport Side Mufflers retain significant acoustic control, they can help keep the complete system more manageable than a muffler-delete configuration.

CARRERA 4S COMPATIBILITY

The Cat Bypass Pipes fit the 996 Carrera 4S.

This is important because the standard narrow-body 996 Sport Side Mufflers specifically do not fit the C4S.

The catalyst section is shared, while the rear exhaust architecture differs.

For a Carrera 4S:

SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes: compatible

Standard Carrera Sport Side Mufflers: not compatible

C4S-specific SOUL Side Mufflers: required when upgrading the rear mufflers

TARGA COMPATIBILITY

The same Cat Bypass Pipe assembly also applies to the naturally aspirated 996 Targa.

This makes POR.996.CBP a shared catalyst-delete component across the naturally aspirated Carrera family rather than a body-style-specific exhaust component.

2.25-INCH TUBING

SOUL constructs each bypass assembly from:

2.25-inch outside-diameter tubing

This differs from the 2.5-inch architecture used by SOUL's separate 996 X-Pipe product.

That distinction is important when comparing the two systems.

The Cat Bypass Pipes prioritize SOUL's preferred split-bank sound architecture, while the X-Pipe uses a larger combined-flow design with a different acoustic character.

.065-INCH-WALL T304L STAINLESS STEEL

The pipes are constructed from:

.065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

This material provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Low component weight

• Long service life

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycles

MANDREL-BENT TUBING

SOUL uses smooth mandrel bends to preserve the internal tubing geometry through changes in direction.

Maintaining consistent cross-sectional area helps prevent unnecessary restrictions and supports predictable exhaust flow.

THICK EXHAUST FLANGES

The Cat Bypass Pipes use substantial exhaust flanges designed to maintain:

• Proper sealing

• Correct alignment

• Structural rigidity

• Durability during repeated thermal cycling

This is especially relevant on vehicles that may now have more than two decades of heat cycling on their original exhaust hardware.

NEW HEADER-FLANGE HARDWARE

SOUL includes new hardware for the connection between the Cat Bypass Pipes and the headers.

This avoids requiring the installer to reuse all of the original aged fasteners at that interface.

Existing downstream exhaust hardware should still be inspected during installation and replaced where necessary.

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Each set is tested in a dedicated production fixture before shipment.

SOUL verifies:

• Flange positioning

• Pipe geometry

• Downstream exhaust alignment

• Overall dimensional consistency

The completed assemblies then undergo quality control and are foam packed for shipping.

6.25-LB WEIGHT REDUCTION

SOUL publishes:

Factory Catalytic Converter Assemblies:
approximately 15 lbs / 6.8 kg

SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes:
approximately 8.75 lbs / 4.0 kg

Weight Savings:
approximately 6.25 lbs / 2.8 kg

That represents approximately a:

42% reduction

in the mass of the factory catalyst assemblies being replaced.

The weight is also removed from the rear of a rear-engined 911.

CAT BYPASS VS. SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• $1,555

• Completely catless

• Split-bank design

• 2.25-inch T304L construction

• Approximately 8.75 lbs

• Saves 6.25 lbs

• Maximum catalyst-section volume

• Greater raw exhaust character

• Potential catalyst-related CEL

• Competition-oriented configuration

SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• $3,055

• Retain high-flow catalysts

• Split-bank design

• Approximately 13 lbs

• Saves 2 lbs

• Developed for catalyst-related CEL-free operation

• Reduced exhaust odor

• More street-oriented configuration

Both products use SOUL's preferred split-bank architecture.

The primary decision is whether the customer wants to retain catalytic converters.

CAT BYPASS VS. COMPETITION X-PIPE

These are not the same product with different names.

Cat Bypass Pipes

• $1,555

• Catless

• Split-bank

• 2.25-inch OD tubing

• Deeper, fuller tone

• 8.75 lbs

• 6.25 lbs saved

Competition X-Pipe

• $1,695

• Catless

• X-pipe

• 2.5-inch architecture

• More blended / hollower sound character

• Current X-Pipe page does not publish a verified weight

The $140 price difference is relatively small.

The more important distinction is sound architecture.

CAT BYPASS VS. CATTED X-PIPE

The same basic choice exists for customers who want to retain catalysts:

Sport Catalytic Converters

use SOUL's deeper-sounding split-bank design.

Catted X-Pipe

uses the 2.5-inch X-pipe architecture.

This makes the 996 SOUL catalog unusually flexible because the customer can independently prioritize:

• Catalyst retention

• Sound character

• Exhaust architecture

rather than simply choosing progressively louder versions of the same basic design.

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT

Because the Cat Bypass Pipes completely remove the original catalytic converters, catalyst-monitoring faults may occur.

SOUL explicitly states that this product:

may trigger a check engine light.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise the Cat Bypass Pipes as CEL-free.

ECU TUNING

The pipes do not require ECU calibration simply to physically bolt onto the vehicle.

However, catalyst removal may result in diagnostic faults.

SOUL recommends contacting them for a tuning solution when catalyst-related faults need to be addressed on an appropriate competition vehicle.

A performance calibration may also be used as part of a broader naturally aspirated engine build.

NO PUBLISHED DYNO NUMBER

SOUL describes improvements in:

• Sound

• Power

• Throttle response

• Overall drivability

but does not publish a controlled standalone horsepower or torque figure for POR.996.CBP.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific numerical power gain.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

SOUL backs the fabricated Cat Bypass Pipes with its:

Lifetime Warranty

for both street and track use.

Unlike a catted system, there is no catalytic-converter substrate with a separate shorter catalyst warranty.

EMISSIONS / COMPETITION USE NOTE

The Cat Bypass Pipes completely remove the original catalytic converters.

SOUL states that this product is:

• Not CARB certified

• Potentially illegal for use on emissions-controlled vehicles

• Intended for off-road / competition use only

Customers are responsible for determining whether their vehicle configuration and intended use comply with applicable regulations.

Product Description

The SOUL X-Pipe is a large-diameter performance catalyst-section upgrade for the 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera, available in either a catless Competition configuration or a catted Sport Catalytic Converter configuration.

Unlike SOUL's standalone 996 Sport Catalytic Converters and Cat Bypass Pipes—which deliberately keep the left and right cylinder banks separated—this system uses an X-pipe architecture to merge the opposing exhaust streams.

SOUL builds the X-Pipe around large 2.5-inch-diameter, .065-inch-wall T304L stainless-steel tubing to reduce exhaust restriction and increase the naturally aspirated flat-six's sound and performance potential.

The Competition version removes the factory catalytic converters entirely for maximum flow and a more aggressive exhaust note. The Catted version incorporates SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters for customers who want the X-pipe architecture while retaining catalysts.

FITMENT:

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera Cabriolet

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4S

• Fits applicable 996 Carrera Targa models

• Compatible with both 996.1 and 996.2 Carrera

• Compatible with the factory rear mufflers

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Side Mufflers where applicable

• Does not fit 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3

DETAILS:

• Performance X-Pipe catalyst section

• Available in Competition / Catless

• Available in Catted / Sport Catalytic Converter

• Large 2.5-inch diameter tubing

• .065-inch wall thickness

• T304L stainless-steel construction

• X-pipe joins the left and right cylinder-bank exhaust streams

• Designed to reduce exhaust restriction

• Designed to increase performance potential

• Increases naturally aspirated flat-six sound

• Smooth mandrel-bent tubing

• Thick exhaust flanges

• Fixture-tested before shipment

• Foam-packed after quality inspection

• Direct-fit exhaust architecture

• Two catalyst configurations

• No exhaust-tip variants

• Backed by SOUL Performance Products' Lifetime Warranty for street and track use

LARGE-DIAMETER 2.5-INCH ARCHITECTURE

SOUL builds the 996 Carrera X-Pipe from:

2.5-inch-diameter tubing

The larger flow path is intended to reduce restriction compared with the original Porsche catalyst section and provide additional exhaust capacity for naturally aspirated performance applications.

SOUL specifically developed the system around maximizing flow rather than simply reproducing the dimensions of the factory components.

X-PIPE DESIGN

The defining feature of this product is the connection between the two cylinder banks.

Instead of keeping the left and right exhaust streams completely independent, the X-pipe allows them to merge and interact before continuing toward the rear exhaust.

This changes both:

• Exhaust-flow behavior

• Exhaust sound character

Compared with SOUL's split-bank catalyst products, the X-pipe produces a different tonal balance and exhaust personality.

IMPORTANT SOUND DIFFERENCE VS. SOUL SPLIT-BANK SYSTEMS

SOUL actually tested split-bank and X-pipe designs back-to-back during development of its 996 exhaust components.

Interestingly, SOUL preferred the split-bank layout for its standalone Sport Catalytic Converters and Cat Bypass Pipes because it preserved more of the deep frequencies of the 996 flat-six.

SOUL found that the X-pipe produced a comparatively:

• Smoother sound

• More blended exhaust note

• Hollower tonal character

• Reduced emphasis on some deeper frequencies

That doesn't make one architecture universally better than the other—they simply produce different sound characteristics.

Customers specifically seeking the deepest possible 996 tone may prefer SOUL's split-bank catalyst products, while customers wanting an X-pipe sound and large 2.5-inch flow path should choose this system.

COMPETITION / CATLESS CONFIGURATION

The Competition configuration completely removes the factory catalytic converters.

It combines:

• 2.5-inch piping

• X-pipe architecture

• Catless exhaust flow

This is the most aggressive version of the SOUL X-Pipe.

Expect:

• Maximum catalyst-section flow

• Increased exhaust volume

• More raw flat-six character

• Greater high-RPM presence

• Reduced catalyst restriction

• Increased performance potential

• Stronger exhaust odor

• Potential catalyst-related diagnostic faults

Price: $1,695.00

CATTED CONFIGURATION

The Catted version combines the same X-pipe concept with SOUL's Sport Catalytic Converter configuration.

It retains catalytic converters while offering the larger 2.5-inch X-pipe architecture.

This provides a more conservative alternative for customers who want:

• X-pipe exhaust character

• Increased exhaust flow

• Retained catalysts

• Less exhaust odor than the Competition configuration

• Reduced diagnostic concerns compared with a completely catless setup

Price: $3,195.00

CATTED VS. COMPETITION

Competition X-Pipe

• $1,695

• Completely catless

• 2.5-inch X-pipe

• Maximum flow

• Maximum catalyst-section sound

• Stronger exhaust odor

• Potential catalyst-related CEL

• Competition-oriented

Catted X-Pipe

• $3,195

• Retains Sport Catalytic Converters

• 2.5-inch X-pipe

• More conservative sound and emissions behavior

• Less exhaust odor

• Better suited to customers who want to retain catalysts

Both configurations use the same basic large-diameter X-pipe concept.

X-PIPE VS. SOUL CAT BYPASS PIPES

This is an important distinction within the 996 catalog.

SOUL Cat Bypass Pipes

• Catless

• Left and right banks remain separated

• SOUL specifically selected the split-bank design for a deeper tone

• $1,555

SOUL Competition X-Pipe

• Catless

• Left and right banks are joined through an X-pipe

• More blended exhaust character

• 2.5-inch large-diameter architecture

• $1,695

The difference is therefore not simply price.

The two products use different exhaust architectures and produce different sound characteristics.

X-PIPE VS. SOUL SPORT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

The same distinction applies to the catted versions.

SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters

• Catted

• Split-bank architecture

• Deeper, fuller tone

• Approximately 13 lbs

• $3,055

SOUL Catted X-Pipe

• Catted

• X-pipe architecture

• More blended sound character

• 2.5-inch large-diameter tubing

• $3,195

The price difference is relatively small, so customer preference should primarily come down to sound architecture rather than cost.

WITH FACTORY SIDE MUFFLERS

The X-Pipe can be used with the original Porsche rear mufflers.

This provides the most conservative overall system.

Expect the X-Pipe to increase:

• Flat-six presence

• Exhaust flow

• Throttle-related sound

• High-RPM character

while the factory mufflers continue providing substantial downstream sound attenuation.

WITH SOUL SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS

The X-Pipe can also be combined with SOUL Sport Side Mufflers on compatible Carrera applications.

This creates a substantially more comprehensive exhaust system.

Expect:

• Greater overall volume

• More mechanical flat-six sound

• Increased high-RPM intensity

• Reduced exhaust restriction

• Greater cabin presence

The SOUL Side Mufflers retain their proprietary drone-control design, which can be particularly useful when the upstream exhaust has also been made freer flowing.

996 CARRERA 4S

The X-Pipe catalyst section is compatible with the 996 Carrera 4S, even though the standard Carrera Sport Side Mufflers are not.

A Carrera 4S therefore needs:

• The appropriate shared 996 catalyst/X-pipe component

combined with:

• Carrera 4S-specific rear mufflers if upgrading the muffler section

This distinction is important when assembling a complete C4S exhaust package.

T304L STAINLESS CONSTRUCTION

Each system is fabricated from:

.065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

in:

2.5-inch diameter

T304L provides:

• High-temperature durability

• Corrosion resistance

• Structural strength

• Long service life

• Consistent exhaust fabrication

• Suitability for repeated street and track heat cycles

SMOOTH MANDREL BENDS

SOUL uses mandrel-bent tubing to maintain the intended internal cross-sectional area through bends.

This helps prevent excessive pipe deformation and supports consistent exhaust flow throughout the assembly.

THICK EXHAUST FLANGES

Heavy-duty flanges are used at the exhaust connections to maintain:

• Proper sealing

• Accurate alignment

• Structural stability

• Durability through repeated thermal cycling

FIXTURE-TESTED FITMENT

Each SOUL X-Pipe is tested in a dedicated fabrication fixture prior to shipment.

This allows SOUL to verify:

• Flange alignment

• Pipe geometry

• Catalyst positioning where applicable

• Downstream exhaust alignment

• Overall dimensional consistency

Completed assemblies are then foam packed to protect them during shipment.

PERFORMANCE

SOUL states that the large 2.5-inch architecture is intended to maximize power gains compared with the restrictive factory system.

However, the current product page does not publish a controlled before-and-after dyno result for either X-Pipe configuration.

DasMotoring therefore does not advertise a specific numerical horsepower or torque increase.

WEIGHT

SOUL's current X-Pipe page does not publish a verified weight for either the Competition or Catted X-Pipe configuration.

Although weight data exists for the standalone Cat Bypass Pipes and Sport Catalytic Converters, those use a different split-bank architecture.

DasMotoring therefore does not apply those weights to the X-Pipe product.

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT — COMPETITION VERSION

The Competition configuration removes the catalytic converters.

Because catalyst functionality is eliminated, catalyst-related diagnostic faults may occur.

An appropriate competition ECU calibration may be necessary for diagnostic management depending on the vehicle.

CATTED CONFIGURATION AND CEL BEHAVIOR

The Catted X-Pipe retains SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters.

SOUL's standalone Sport Catalytic Converters are developed around CEL-free operation, but the current dedicated X-Pipe page does not separately publish a diagnostic guarantee for the XP.SCC configuration.

DasMotoring therefore avoids making an absolute CEL guarantee for the catted X-Pipe.

ECU TUNING

No ECU calibration is required simply for the X-Pipe hardware to physically fit the vehicle.

For the catless Competition configuration, tuning may be appropriate to manage catalyst-related diagnostic faults and optimize a modified engine.

For the Catted configuration, tuning is not specified as a requirement.

EMISSIONS / COMPETITION USE NOTE

The Competition X-Pipe removes the factory catalytic converters and is intended for off-road / closed-course competition applications.

SOUL states that the product is not CARB certified and may not be legal for use on emissions-controlled vehicles.

The Catted configuration retains aftermarket Sport Catalytic Converters but should not be represented as original Porsche emissions equipment.

Customers are responsible for determining compliance with applicable regulations.

Product Description

The SOUL Sport Catalytic Converters are a direct-fit performance upgrade for the 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera, replacing the restrictive factory catalyst assemblies with freer-flowing high-flow catalytic converters designed to increase exhaust flow, improve performance potential, and bring significantly more character out of Porsche's naturally aspirated flat-six.

SOUL took a particularly sound-focused approach to the 996. Rather than connecting the left and right cylinder banks through an X-pipe, SOUL deliberately keeps the exhaust banks separated after testing both configurations back-to-back. SOUL found that an X-pipe reduced some of the deeper frequencies that give the 996 its distinctive sound, while the split-bank configuration produced a deeper, fuller flat-six note with greater volume and a slight rasp reminiscent of earlier air-cooled Porsche exhaust character.

The complete SOUL assemblies weigh approximately 13 lbs compared with 15 lbs for the factory catalyst components, reducing exhaust-system weight by approximately 2 lbs / 0.9 kg.

SOUL also developed the Sport Catalytic Converters around increased flow without catalyst-related check engine lights under normal operation, making them a much more street-oriented alternative to completely catless bypass pipes.

FITMENT:

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera Cabriolet

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4

• Fits 1999–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 Cabriolet

• Fits 2002–2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4S

• Fits 2004 Porsche 996 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

• SOUL specifies fitment for all Porsche 996 Carreras from 1999–2004

• Compatible with 996.1 and 996.2 Carrera applications

• Compatible with the factory rear mufflers

• Compatible with SOUL Sport Side Mufflers

• Compatible with other appropriate 996 Carrera rear exhaust configurations

• Does not apply to 996 Turbo, GT2, or GT3 models

DETAILS:

• Pair of Sport Catalytic Converter assemblies

• Premium high-flow catalytic converters

• Replaces the restrictive factory catalyst assemblies

• Retains a catted exhaust configuration

• Designed to improve exhaust flow

• Designed to increase performance potential

• Increased flat-six exhaust volume

• Deeper, fuller naturally aspirated exhaust tone

• Slightly more aggressive rasp

• Air-cooled-inspired tonal character

• Split-bank exhaust design

• Deliberately avoids an X-pipe in the catalyst section

• SOUL tested split-bank and X-pipe configurations back-to-back

• Developed for catalyst-related CEL-free operation under normal conditions

• Approximately 13 lbs / 5.9 kg

• Factory catalyst assemblies approximately 15 lbs / 6.8 kg

• Saves approximately 2 lbs / 0.9 kg

• Approximately 13% lighter than the factory components being replaced

• Constructed from .065-inch-wall T304L stainless steel

• Smooth mandrel-bent tubing

• Thick exhaust flanges

• New catalyst-to-header mounting hardware included

• Fixture-tested prior to shipment

• Foam-packed after quality inspection

• Designed and manufactured in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

• 3-year warranty on the catalytic converters

• Lifetime warranty on the stainless-steel pipe assemblies

HIGH-FLOW CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

The factory 996 Carrera catalytic converters are one of the more restrictive components in the original exhaust system.

SOUL replaces the original assemblies with freer-flowing catalytic converters designed to increase exhaust-flow capacity while retaining catalyst functionality.

Benefits include:

• Reduced exhaust restriction

• Greater exhaust sound

• Increased engine character

• Improved performance potential

• Retained catalytic converters

• Reduced diagnostic compromise compared with fully catless pipes

DEVELOPED SPECIFICALLY AROUND 996 SOUND

The development of these Sport Catalytic Converters was not simply a matter of fitting a less restrictive catalyst into the factory location.

SOUL tested different exhaust architectures to determine how the catalyst section affected the distinctive character of the 996 flat-six.

One of the most important findings involved the relationship between the two cylinder banks.

SPLIT-BANK DESIGN

SOUL ultimately chose to keep the left and right exhaust banks separate through the catalyst section.

This was an intentional acoustic decision.

The split-bank configuration helps preserve:

• Deeper exhaust frequencies

• Fuller flat-six tone

• Greater exhaust volume

• Individual cylinder-bank character

• A slightly rawer and more mechanical sound

The result is particularly appropriate for the naturally aspirated 996 Carrera, where exhaust tone and engine character are often as important as outright volume.

WHY SOUL DID NOT USE AN X-PIPE

SOUL also tested an X-pipe arrangement during development.

The company found that connecting the two banks through an X-pipe produced a hollower exhaust note and removed some of the deeper frequencies it preferred on the 996.

SOUL therefore chose the split-bank architecture for the production system.

This is an important distinction from many performance exhaust systems where an X-pipe is automatically assumed to be the desirable solution.

On the 996, SOUL prioritized the sound character produced by keeping the banks separated.

DEEPER, FULLER FLAT-SIX SOUND

SOUL describes the finished sound as deeper and fuller than the factory catalyst configuration.

Expect greater:

• Flat-six mechanical character

• Midrange exhaust presence

• High-RPM intensity

• Throttle-related feedback

• Acceleration volume

• Exhaust texture

The high-flow catalyst configuration also introduces a subtle additional rasp without turning the system into an uncontrolled or excessively harsh catless exhaust.

AIR-COOLED-INSPIRED CHARACTER

One of SOUL's development goals was to bring some of the rawer character associated with earlier Porsche flat-six engines into the water-cooled 996 platform.

The combination of:

• Separate exhaust banks

• Freer-flowing catalysts

• Reduced sound attenuation

produces a tone SOUL characterizes as having a hint of air-cooled-inspired exhaust character.

This does not make a 996 sound identical to an air-cooled 911, but it describes the deeper and more mechanical direction SOUL pursued during development.

WITH FACTORY SIDE MUFFLERS

The Sport Catalytic Converters can be installed while retaining the factory Porsche rear mufflers.

This is the more conservative configuration.

Expect:

• Increased engine sound

• Deeper exhaust tone

• Greater throttle-related character

• Improved exhaust flow

• Retained factory rear mufflers

• Retained OEM exterior appearance

• More restrained overall volume than a complete aftermarket exhaust system

For a street-driven 996, this provides a useful first-stage exhaust upgrade.

WITH SOUL SPORT SIDE MUFFLERS

SOUL specifically developed those mufflers with upgraded high-flow catalysts in mind.

The combination provides:

• High-flow catalytic converters

• Increased naturally aspirated flat-six character

• Greater overall exhaust volume

• Deeper tone

• More aggressive high-RPM sound

• SOUL's proprietary drone-control mufflers

• Better cruising refinement than a muffler-delete configuration