Revving up the Refinement in your Luxury Coupe
As a fellow Bentley owner, I understand the desire to enhance the performance and enjoy the refined roar of a powerful engine. My stock exhaust system left something to be desired. I longed for the deep, throaty rumble to match the power under my hood. That’s when I discovered Flowmaster exhaust systems. Installing a Flowmaster on my Bentley took the driving experience from posh to push-the-limits.
I know you’re searching for ways to amplify your machine. You want to revel in the guttural growl of your engine accelerating on an open straightaway. Here’s my first-hand experience upgrading to a Flowmaster, how it impacted my Bentley’s performance, sound and driving enjoyment. I’ll also share guidance on compatible models, pricing, installation, benefits, legal considerations and more.
If you’re looking to upgrade your luxury cruiser with an aggressive exhaust note, this guide will provide everything you need to know about outfitting a Bentley with a Flowmaster system.
Unleashing the Beast Within
As a luxury performance brand, Bentley represents the pinnacle of refined power. The hand-crafted engines deliver exhilarating speed and control. But let’s be honest, the factory exhaust is designed for comfort and reduced cabin noise. It mutes the thunder under the bonnet.
For those craving a roar to match the acceleration, Flowmaster offers high-performance exhausts to unleash the beast within your Bentley.
Known for quality craftsmanship and bold sound, Flowmaster is the premier name in aftermarket performance exhausts. They offer direct bolt-on systems to free up horsepower and give your luxury coupe an aggressive note that turns heads.
Rev Up the Refinement
Will a Flowmaster sacrifice the refined ride quality expected from a Bentley? Not at all!
Engineered for power gains across the RPM range, a Flowmaster system improves throttle response. Your Bentley will boast better acceleration. It enhances performance without droning or cabin resonance.
You retain the comfort and sophistication of a luxury cruiser. Yet now you command respect on the boulevard with the bellow of a NASCAR racer. A Flowmaster exhaust accentuates each decadent feature – quality, control and roar!
Models That Make Beautiful Music
What Bentley models dance well with a Flowmaster partner? Their direct-fit kits are available for:
- Continental GT
- Flying Spur
- Azure
- Brooklands
- Mulsanne
- Arnage
- Turbo R
Some kits fit multiple generations. Just input your year, make and model on their website to find a system designed specifically for your car.
Piping an Exhaust into Your Budget
How much should you expect to spend for this upgrade? System prices range $800-$1000 for the kit. Figure another $200-$500 for professional installation if you don’t plan to DIY.
Consider it an investment in amplifying your driving pleasure. The improved throttle response, power gains and aggressive sound make every excursion more exciting.
Places to Purchase Your Piping
Where can you pick up a kit custom-designed for your Bentley? Here are a few reputable options:
- Direct from Flowmaster – order online or by phone for customer service guidance
- Local auto parts stores – retailers like AutoZone, O’Reilly’s, Pep Boys or NAPA may have kits in stock or can special order
- Performance/exhaust specialty shops – storefronts dedicated to aftermarket parts often have great deals
- eBay sellers – lots of reputable resellers with competitive pricing
Shop around for sales and incentives on shipping or installation. And ensure the retailer will allow returns if the kit doesn’t fit your Bentley properly.
Wrenching on Your wagon
Once you secure the perfect Flowmaster for your baby, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Remember exhaust work involves very hot piping. Let the system cool before attempting installation. Protect your skin and wear eye protection.
Here are a few tips for tackling a DIY exhaust upgrade:
- Get a shop manual for your specific Bentley make and model. This will provide torque specs and step-by-step guidance.
- Gather tools like jack stands, ratchets, pipe cutters, clamps, anti-seize compound, gloves and safety glasses.
- Don’t force connections. The pieces should fit together cleanly with some elbow grease.
- Applying anti-seize compound on bolts will make things easier if you ever need to detach the system.
- Expect the job to take a full day or weekend for a novice mechanic. Take breaks to maintain patience and avoid mistakes.
- Install new gaskets to prevent exhaust leaks that could allow dangerous fumes in the cabin.
Of course you can also pay a performance shop or mechanic to handle the install if you prefer. The cost is worthwhile to ensure it’s done right.
Refined Roar: The Benefits of a Flowmaster
Why bother upgrading your luxury cruiser with an aftermarket performance exhaust? What benefits should you expect?
Here are some perks experienced by Bentley owners after installing a Flowmaster:
- Increased horsepower – improved efficiency adds accelerating force
- Torque gains across RPM range – more power at launch, mid-range and higher speeds
- Improved throttle response – quicker acceleration when you step on the gas
- Deeper, more aggressive sound – basks your ego in a bold rumble
- Performance brand prestige – respect from fellow enthusiasts for picking a premiere upgrade
- Personalize your ride – custom tone reflecting your style and attitude
- Driver enjoyment – everyday trips become more fun, exciting and badass
Protecting Your Pretty Pennies: Legal and Warranty Considerations
How do exhaust mods impact your warranty coverage? Will changing the system pass local sound regulations?
These are important considerations before upgrading your Bentley’s exhaust system:
- Emissions – Flowmaster kits meet CARB compliance standards for street legal use. But verify regulations based on your location.
- Sound limits – Performance exhausts are louder. Make sure local noise ordinances don’t regulate allowable decibels.
- Inspections – If required in your region, ask the shop to provide documentation stating the exhaust doesn’t impact emissions for passing tests.
- Warranty coverage – Upgrades don’t automatically void factory warranty, but may impact coverage related to engine or exhaust components. Check your owner’s manual.
As long as you select a CARB compliant kit for your Bentley and have it installed properly, you can enjoy both performance gains and peace of mind that your exhaust is road legal.
Igniting Your Auditory Senses
One of the biggest benefits of a Flowmaster exhaust is the burly, refined sound. But how will it actually impact the tone of your Bentley?
The exact change in pitch, volume and tone depends on the engine size and Flowmaster series you select. Expect a deeper, raspy rumble at idle. The resonance intensifies into the rear mufflers at higher RPMs.
You’ll hear aggressive barks when accelerating as the engine transitions through gears. It’s sure to announce your arrival! But cruising speeds remain refined.
If you crave deep, race-inspired rips between gear changes, the Flowmaster Super 40 series is ideal for Bentleys. For a milder, conservative growl try the Flowmaster American Thunder system.
Fuelling Your Wallet: Efficiency Considerations
In addition to awesome sound, a performance exhaust can enhance fuel efficiency in your Bentley. Here’s why:
- Reduced backpressure allows the engine to breathe better. This means more complete fuel combustion and reduced waste.
- Flowmaster systems improve throttle response. The engine responds quicker when accelerating, meaning you spend less time revving the gas pedal.
- Precision crafted bends maximize exhaust scavenging for lowest possible backpressure.
Exact MPG improvements vary based on engine size, transmission and driving style. Expect 1-3 MPG fuel economy gains with a Flowmaster upgrade. Plus faster throttle response saves gas by allowing you to get up to speed quicker.
Connect with a Trusted Technician
Installing a new exhaust system is intricate work. If you don’t plan to DIY, take care in choosing an experienced performance shop or mechanic you can trust to do quality work on your Bentley.
Here are a few tips for picking the right installation professional:
- Search for mechanics experienced specifically with Flowmaster brand exhausts. Proper installation is key to realizing performance benefits.
- Read online reviews of local shops that offer exhaust upgrades. Look for recommendations from fellow Bentley owners.
- Choose a certified installer. Flowmaster trains and authorizes certain mechanics to ensure expertise.
- Ask about warranties to cover any installation defects or issues down the road.
- Inquire about pre and post installation road testing. This validates proper fit, sound and emissions.
- Request photos and details of the work provided after completing the job.
Taking time to find a qualified technician ensures your new Flowmaster exhaust exceeds expectations when installed.
Comparing Flowmaster Series for Bentley Applications
Flowmaster offers a range of exhaust system styles for different performance goals. Which is right for your Bentley? Consider these comparisons:
- Original Flowmaster 40 Series – Provides deepest tone for a refined muscle car sound. Ideal if you want maximum bold exhaust notes.
- American Thunder – Milder resonance that maintains luxury car manners. Great choice if you want moderate sound enhancement.
- Force II – Delivers a light raspy growl through two chamber mufflers. Good option for an imported luxury performance car.
- Delta Force – Utilizes a straight through perforated core for unobstructed flow and reduced interior resonance. Nice balance of throaty sound without droning.
Talk with Flowmaster product experts about the best series selection based on your Bentley, desired sound volume and performance goals.
Vintage Models Can Come Out to Play
Do you own a cherished Bentley classic from an earlier era? Good news, Flowmaster didn’t forget about older luxury car enthusiasts.
They design exhaust products for vintage Bentley models like:
- R Type Continental
- S1 Continental
- S2 Continental
- S3 Continental
- T2 Coupe
So if you’re still driving and enjoying a prized antique Bentley, you can upgrade it with a modern high-performance exhaust system.
Just provide your collector car’s details to the Flowmaster sales team. They can build a custom exhaust to accentuate the power and prestige of your preserved luxury icon.
Maintaining Your Warranty
Would I recommend you upgrade your stock exhaust without considering the warranty implications? No way. Here are wise steps:
- Check your owner’s manual for the warranty coverage details related to aftermarket parts. What aspects of coverage could a new exhaust system potentially impact?
- Contact your dealer service department for guidance. Ask if installing a Flowmaster exhaust would void all or part of the factory warranty. Get definitive answers in writing.
- For maximum protection, consider waiting until the powertrain warranty expires before upgrading your exhaust.
- Choose a CARB compliant Flowmaster kit designed specifically for your Bentley model year and engine. Proper fitment and emissions compliance reduces warranty risk.
- Keep paperwork from the Flowmaster kit and the shop that did the install to show components and workmanship meet OEM specifications.
Taking these precautions shows good faith effort to maintain your warranty. But consult authorized dealer guidance to better understand exhaust system implications.
What Could Go Wrong? Common Snags and Issues
While Flowmaster exhausts are precision-engineered for trouble-free installation, it’s a complex job. Here are some potential issues to be aware of:
- Improper fitment – Ensure you order the exact kit designed for your Bentley’s make, model and year. Don’t force pieces that don’t line up correctly.
- Leaky gaskets – Failed or misaligned gaskets can cause exhaust leaks and dangerous fumes entering the cabin. Inspect all seals thoroughly.
- Rattles or vibration – Cross members, chassis components and subframes can develop annoying buzzes from the new system’s vibrations if suspension or mounts are worn.
- Electrical problems – Sensors or wiring for O2 monitors, electronic valves or controls can be negatively impacted if damaged during installation.
- Burning smells – This indicates heat damage to surrounding components like hoses, starter or wiring. It usually results from blown gaskets.
- Drone or resonance – Some low-quality exhausts transmit excessive noise and vibration into the cabin which is very annoying. Flowmaster systems are designed to avoid this phenomenon.
Having the work done by a reputable shop minimizes the likelihood of encountering major problems. But being aware of the potential pitfalls can help you identify any minor issues that may arise.
Does the Stock System Still Wear the Crown?
The engineers at Bentley are among the best in the business. The factory exhaust system provides a refined acoustic profile appropriate for a luxury touring vehicle. But it leaves most owners yearning for more power, performance and aggressive sound.
Stock systems are optimized for quiet comfort, not maximizing airflow. The mufflers and piping have limitations that hinder horsepower potential.
Upgrading to a Flowmaster exhaust allows your cherished Bentley to achieve its peak acceleration, speed and sound. It’s like infusing your dignified royal with a shot of adrenaline!
I Want My Bentley to Roar Like Thunder!
Based on all the positive benefits, I’m excited to upgrade my Bentley with a Flowmaster exhaust. The sound clips I’ve heard give me chills imagining the brute force contained within my elegant touring machine.
I can’t wait to experience the guttural, unrestrained thunder and peerless performance it will unleash. My sedan will transform from prim and proper to a badass beast! Heads will turn and hearts will race when my handcrafted growler announces itself.
Of course, I’ll take all prudent steps to maintain warranty coverage and ensure legal compliance. But there’s no denying the appeal of amplifying the acceleration and adrenaline that put the driving back into this luxury cruiser in the first place. The open road beckons for my empowered Bentley!
I hope this overview helps as you consider unlocking the bold roar slumbering within your own Bentley. There are few upgrades that impact aesthetics, performance and driving enjoyment all in one package like a Flowmaster exhaust. Are you ready to release the beast?
