Exhaust upgrades are a key modification for many Miata enthusiasts. They offer not only a way to enhance performance but also to inject some personality into the car. If you’re thinking about upgrading your NB Miata’s exhaust, this guide will help you navigate the many options available.
Choosing the right exhaust can feel overwhelming given the sheer variety of options on the market. This guide will break everything down for you, making it easier to select the right exhaust based on your sound preferences, performance goals, and budget. Let’s dive in and explore what makes the NB Miata exhaust system so special, and how to find the perfect one for your needs.
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One of the main reasons for upgrading your NB Miata’s exhaust is the improvement in airflow. Aftermarket exhaust systems typically feature larger pipe diameters and optimized designs that allow exhaust gases to flow more freely. This reduces restriction and enhances overall engine efficiency, especially when driving at higher RPMs.
Upgrading your exhaust can also lead to moderate increases in horsepower and torque, particularly when combined with other performance modifications like headers or cold air intakes. While an exhaust alone might not give you a massive boost, you can expect gains of around 5–10 horsepower depending on the system. This may not sound like much, but in a lightweight car like the Miata, those extra horses make a noticeable difference in how the car feels, especially in throttle response and acceleration.
Another key benefit is the reduction of back pressure. Stock exhaust systems, designed to be quiet and comfortable, create more back pressure than necessary. Performance exhausts reduce this, allowing the engine to breathe more freely. You’ll notice this difference particularly when pushing the car through higher RPMs—perfect for track days or spirited weekend drives.
A major reason Miata owners upgrade their exhaust is to improve the car’s sound. The stock exhaust on the NB Miata is fairly quiet and refined, designed more for comfort than excitement. In contrast, aftermarket exhausts can completely transform the car’s personality, giving it a much more aggressive and sporty tone.
Different exhaust systems cater to different tastes. Some people want a deep, rumbling exhaust note, while others prefer something a bit more refined and subtle. Finding the right sound comes down to personal preference. If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate systems that allow you to adjust the sound. For example, the RoadsterSport 3 by Goodwin Racing offers an adjustable sound feature with a removable baffle. This lets you fine-tune the exhaust note depending on whether you’re heading to the track or cruising around town.
Another often overlooked benefit of upgrading your exhaust is weight reduction. The factory exhaust on the NB Miata is relatively heavy due to its materials and construction. Swapping it out for an aftermarket system made from lightweight materials like stainless steel or titanium can shave off several pounds, which can improve your car’s handling and overall performance.
Many aftermarket exhausts offer significant weight savings. For example, systems like the ISR Performance Circuit Spec or ARK DT-S are not only designed to reduce back pressure and increase power, but they also cut down on unnecessary weight. Shedding 10–15 pounds may not sound like much, but in a lightweight car like the Miata, every bit counts.
Let’s not forget the visual impact. Upgrading your exhaust doesn’t just change how your car sounds and drives—it can also improve how it looks. Many aftermarket exhausts come with beautifully designed tailpipe finishes, ranging from polished stainless steel to carbon-fiber or burnt tips. These small details can make a big difference in the appearance of your car’s rear end.
Beyond the tailpipe, top-tier manufacturers focus on fit and finish, ensuring that the exhaust looks as good as it performs. A well-made exhaust not only enhances the aesthetics of your Miata but can also be a subtle way to show off your attention to detail.
For most people, the Goodwin Racing RoadsterSport 3 offers the best balance between performance, sound, and drivability. The exhaust just consistently delivers. During daily driving, it remains refined and unobtrusive, but when you push the car, the exhaust opens up with an aggressive growl that’s truly satisfying.
The RoadsterSport 3 is constructed from stainless steel with a straight-through design, which optimizes performance by improving airflow. The standout feature for me is the removable baffle, which allows you to adjust the exhaust note to suit your driving style. Whether you’re heading to work or going for a spirited drive, this exhaust can do it all.
Price-wise, the RoadsterSport 3 falls in the $500–$700 range, making it a great option for anyone seeking a versatile, high-quality system. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a balanced blend of performance and sound.
The Manzo NB Axle-Back Exhaust is a budget-friendly option that delivers a noticeable sound upgrade. With a 63.5mm internal pipe diameter and a 4.5-inch stainless steel tip, it produces a loud, aggressive tone, especially at higher RPMs. However, it does tend to have more drone at highway speeds, which can be a downside for daily drivers.
Although this system has been discontinued, it’s still a solid choice for those on a tight budget. It won’t last as long as more premium systems, but for around $300, it’s a decent entry-level option. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a louder, less refined sound, the Manzo exhaust is worth considering.
The Megan Racing OE-RS is perfect for those who want a quieter, more subtle sound while still improving exhaust flow. This exhaust features a 63.5mm internal pipe diameter and a 3.5-inch polished tip, along with stainless steel construction. The sound is more refined and restrained compared to louder systems, making it ideal for daily driving.
At around $300–$500, it’s a fantastic option for drivers who want better performance without sacrificing comfort. It’s not the loudest exhaust, but it offers great value for those seeking an OEM-style upgrade with slight performance gains.
The ISR Performance Circuit Spec is designed for Miata owners who want maximum performance and an aggressive exhaust note. With a 63.5mm pipe diameter and a 4-inch polished tip, this exhaust system offers significant weight savings and reduced back pressure, leading to noticeable gains in horsepower and torque.
The sound is loud but not overwhelming, making it a great choice for track enthusiasts or weekend warriors. However, it may produce some drone around 2.5k–3k RPM, so it’s not the best choice for long highway drives. At $400–$600, the ISR Circuit Spec offers excellent value for those seeking a lightweight, performance-oriented exhaust.
For those willing to spend a little more, the ARK DT-S exhaust offers premium quality and performance. With a 63.5mm internal pipe diameter and a choice of polished or burnt finishes, this exhaust is both stylish and functional. The deep, rich exhaust note strikes a perfect balance between sporty and refined.
Priced at around $800 or more, the ARK DT-S isn’t cheap, but the craftsmanship and performance gains justify the higher cost. It’s a premium system for drivers who want the best of everything—sound, performance, and aesthetic appeal.
| Exhaust System | Pipe Diameter | Sound Level | Price Range | Weight Savings | Daily Drivability | Track Use | Value for Money |
| Goodwin Racing RoadsterSport 3 | 63.5mm | Moderate | $500-$700 | Moderate | Excellent | Good | Great |
| Manzo NB Axle-Back | 63.5mm | Loud | <$300 | Low | Fair | Fair | Good |
| Megan Racing OE-RS | 63.5mm | Subtle | $300-$500 | Moderate | Excellent | Fair | Great |
| ISR Performance Circuit Spec | 63.5mm | Loud | $400-$600 | High | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| ARK DT-S | 63.5mm | Moderate | $800+ | High | Good | Excellent | Good |
Choosing the right exhaust depends on how you use your Miata and what you want from your exhaust system. If your Miata is a daily driver, you’ll want something that balances performance with comfort. Exhausts like the Goodwin Racing RoadsterSport 3 or Megan Racing OE-RS offer refined sounds that won’t get annoying during long commutes.
On the other hand, if your Miata is more of a weekend warrior or track toy, you might prefer louder, more performance-focused options like the ISR Circuit Spec or ARK DT-S. These exhausts provide aggressive tones and performance benefits that shine during spirited driving.
When considering sound profiles, it’s helpful to break it down into categories:
If you’re on a budget, the Manzo or Megan Racing systems are affordable and offer good performance for the price. For those willing to spend more, the ARK DT-S is a top-tier system that delivers premium quality and sound.
Installing an aftermarket exhaust on your NB Miata is typically a straightforward process, especially with systems that are designed to be bolt-on kits. Most come with all the necessary hardware, and you can complete the installation in your driveway with basic tools.
For more complex systems, or if you’re dealing with custom hangers or other modifications, it’s best to seek professional installation. Some systems, especially when retrofitting parts between the NA and NB generations, may require welding or other custom work.
A common issue with aftermarket exhausts is drone, which can make highway driving unpleasant. To reduce drone, consider adding a resonator or using sound-deadening materials in the cabin.
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