A Guide to Finding the Best Sound and Performance
If you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle’s exhaust system for a more aggressive sound and improved performance, Flowmaster mufflers are a top choice. With so many options to choose from though, it can be tricky to select the right muffler for your car, truck or SUV.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between Flowmaster muffler series and provide a handy muffler comparison chart to match your ride’s style and needs. Whether you want a deep, rumbling idle or screaming high-RPM power, Flowmaster has a muffler to deliver the sound you crave.
Not All Mufflers Are Created Equal
Flowmaster offers four main muffler series, each engineered for specific sound and power goals:
Delta Flow mufflers are the most aggressive and loudest designs in the Flowmaster lineup. With deep tone and commanding engine notes even at idle, these mufflers really announce your presence. Delta Flows are perfect for heavily modified vehicles looking to maximize sound.
The FlowFX series delivers a balance of tone and performance. With a moderate interior resonance and bold exhaust note, FlowFX mufflers upgrade the sound while still allowing for everyday drivability. This versatile series works for muscle cars, trucks, and performance street cars.
Hushpower mufflers focus on maximizing power while minimizing interior resonance. The exhaust tone is more reserved but still delivers a noticeable rumble. This is Flowmaster’s premium performance series made for heavily modded vehicles.
Finally, American Thunder mufflers produce Flowmaster’s signature deep, strong tone for an all-American muscle car sound. With authoritative resonance and a moderate exterior volume, American Thunder mufflers are ideal for classic and modern V8s.
Use the Flowmaster Sound Chart to Choose By Decibel Levels
Every Flowmaster muffler is individually tuned for sound, but the series’ do have typical interior and exterior sound level ranges:
| Muffler Series | Interior Sound | Exterior Sound |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Flow | 95-105 dB | 100-110 dB |
| Flow FX | 85-95 dB | 90-100 dB |
| Hushpower | 80-90 dB | 85-95 dB |
| American Thunder | 80-90 dB | 85-95 dB |
This muffler chart shows how the more aggressive Delta Flow and FlowFX series tend to be louder both inside the cabin and from the exterior. For a milder rumble, American Thunder and Hushpower Flowmasters lower the volume while still sounding authoritative.
Match Your Muffler to Your Ride
With so many options, it can be hard to choose the right Flowmaster for your vehicle. Here are some recommendations:
- For a daily driven muscle car or street rod, go with a FlowFX or American Thunder to get bold sound without excessive drone at highway speeds.
- Heavily modified racing and high performance vehicles need the Delta Flow or Hushpower series to tackle the upgrades without restriction.
- Trucks and SUVs sound great with American Thunder or FlowFX mufflers that deliver a throaty rumble.
- Hushpower is the way to go if you want max power gains from your exhaust work. The quiet tone hides the increased airflow and horsepower.
- To meet strict noise regulations, the American Thunder line provides Flowmaster’s signature sound at lower volumes.
More Things to Consider
Choose a Flowmaster muffler diameter that matches your vehicle’s existing exhaust tubing for a direct replacement. Or step up to a larger diameter to remove restrictions.
Many Flowmaster mufflers are available as direct-fit bolt-on parts for popular models. This makes installation easy. Otherwise, look for a muffler shop experienced with custom exhaust work.
While Flowmasters are designed to handle high heat, opt for stainless steel over aluminized steel for extended life under extreme conditions. And don’t forget to consider the warranty when choosing your muffler.
Find Your Perfect Exhaust Note
With so many options, you’re sure to find a Flowmaster muffler that delivers exactly the sound and performance you’re looking for. Use this guide to confidently choose a muffler that matches your car and style. Which Flowmaster tone fits you best – the commanding Delta Flow roar or reserved American Thunder rumble? Get out there and upgrade your ride!
