Which is better for '95 VTEC: Thermal Classic or Thermal Stealth?

[mdeyer]

So, I'm about to add a cat-back system. I've decided (thanks, BuhBuh) on Thermal R&D. Question is, which should I go for?

The Classic says that it's "tuned toward the upper mid-range and top end and are recommended for the more aggressively built vehicle".

The Stealth says that it's "tuned toward low- to mid-range power and are recommended on mildly modified vehicles".

I have made no mods, other than a K&N filter and Bosch +4 plugs. It seems that torque might be more important to me than HP, and since it is VTEC, the low end might need more help than the high end.

Any experience? Any thoughts? I'm gonna buy one or the other in a few days, but I'd really like some input first. In case it matters, I autocross (SCCA) and plan to compete nationally this fall (against WRX, Integra Type R, and Audi S4)...I just want to have every advantage I can get.

Thanks for the input!

[eward]

i dunno if this site'll help or not.....but o well...nothiing to lose. haha


http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/7...usttheory.html

[jc836]

Just a view from a multi-Honda Thermal owner.
There is little difference between the 2 exhausts except for the sound level being higher on the Classic. I found that version too loud on my Civic and switched to the Stealth with no loss in performance. MY Prelude has the Classic/Stealth (99 SS) and is very strong. Those of us who have used it on 5th gens like the design and sound level. We have done track days at Pocono and will be at Watkins Glen this year-these tracks have my car running under 5000 a good part of the time and it is very strong right up and into vtec.
For the purpose you are planning the Stealth will more than meet noise control requirements and the output of the engine will not be compromised.
Good Luck and happy Luding:flash:

[buh_buh]

Well for daily driving, the low end to mid end power is probably more appropriate. Your rarely going to need high end power for everyday driving, so unless your doing a lot of highway driving, I'd go with the stealth.

[mdeyer]

heheh...buh_buh, you don't know how I drive, do you? :apoke: I'm in VTEC on almost every *shift*! However, I don't much care about the daily aspect of it, as I can smoke almost any car who might want to play (as every Prelude owner knows), have fun on the freeway, and even enjoy pulling out of the driveway!

jc836, your comments are helpful, too. Is the noise level that much higher with the Classic? I know that a Civic is inherently noisier than a 'Lude, but will it be that noticable? I'm glad to hear that the non-VTEC power is there, though...that's what I need. Most of the courses I drive are run between 1st and 2nd (mostly low to mid 2nd), so I think the torque is more beneficial than the high-end power. That's why I asked! Thank you!

eward, it helped my wife understand why I have to spend ~$500! Really, though, I will find that of use when I start making *serious* upgrades. Thanks!
-Mike

[mdeyer]

I went ahead and ordered the Thermal Stealth. Found it for a great price ($439) at a site called Rollhard Performance (www.rollhard.com). Service before the purchase was good; most questions were answered quickly. Now I can't wait to get it and see how it works!!! I'll let everyone know how quick it comes.

[jc836]

The difference between Classic and Stealth on my Civic CX HB was very noticeable-I can actually listen to the radio at speed with the Stealth, but couldn't with the Classic.
Take some time driving on the Stealth and let it "break in" for around 1,000 miles. Then it gets very sweet.