exhaust opinion

i planned on buying headers, hi-flow CAT, and a CAT-back system for my 00GT but as always reality set in and that's way too much money. I'm not looking for an amazing HP gain, I just want better flow and a nice beefy sound. I'm thinking of just getting wpi ported exhaust manifold, replacing the u-bend, magnaflow cat and then flowmaster series 4 mufflers(would really like SLP loudmoth mufflers but can't find the mufflers alone). If i use the original piping is that 2.25? Just want some thoughts on this. Thanks in advance guys

With all of those mods to the exaust you should go ahead and upgrade the pipes too. Especially if you go with ported manifolds.

i planned on buying headers, hi-flow CAT, and a CAT-back system for my 00GT but as always reality set in and that's way too much money. I'm not looking for an amazing HP gain, I just want better flow and a nice beefy sound. I'm thinking of just getting wpi ported exhaust manifold, replacing the u-bend, magnaflow cat and then flowmaster series 4 mufflers(would really like SLP loudmoth mufflers but can't find the mufflers alone). If i use the original piping is that 2.25? Just want some thoughts on this. Thanks in advance guys

it sounds like you've got the right idea. Have you checked out S&S headers? they're only about $500 from wbodystore.com Otherwise i'd check the classifieds over at clubgp.com and look for a used set of headers you can get some pretty cheap sometimes. if you do go the route you're thinking the only thing i see missing is a downpipe. you can get a complete bolt-on for about 245-280 + shipping. The downpipe is your next biggest restriction after the u-bend. and yes 2.25 piping for the stock cat-back i'd do downpipe before PEMs or hold off and do both at the same time for easier installation

I put a Catco high flow convertor and a Loudmouth on my 01 GT. Love the sound and it feels like it woke the car up nicely. The Catco eliminated the u-bend too. I did have to put an O2 sim in because it was flowing too high for the computer and kicked the SES light. The Loudmouth came with the GTX tips and fills the rear bumper nicely.