Thought I'd start a thread with actual install, results, impressions on the new AWE Exhaust for the 2016+ Camaro SS/ZL1 - sounds like a number of forum members have them on the way and/or being installed. Might be a good way to compare the various options and combinations - and impressions - as they hit the street (or track!)
I went with the Track Edition / Non-Resonated / Chrome Tips and added the Performance Link Pipes (Secondary Catalyst Delete Kit). My car is almost exclusively track use and I wanted it loud. If I do headers over the winter I may add the resonated mid-pipes to tone it down a bit. Maybe.
Here was my install, results and impressions:
1. Ordered from Phastek on a Tuesday at around 2PM. The system arrived on my driveway at around 5PM that Thursday. Wow. Love it when that happens.
2. Everything is packaged and protected really well. Particularly the Tips. Classy way to package these babies! Kudos to AWE.
3. Removal of the stock system is really easy (at least with a lift - not sure I'd tackle this without one). Only slight curveball is that you need to cut the OEM bracket that secures the driver's side clamp just behind the primary cat & O2 sensor. Fairly soft metal and pretty easy to cut off with a dremel tool and cutting wheel. All the rest of the removal - including sliding it out the back of the car in one whole section - was really simple. Like my wife and I handled it.....she's a trooper, I'm blessed.
4. When you get the OEM system laid out next to the AWE System you can tell just how lousy the OEM system is from a flow perspective. I've heard all the chatter on the crushed section not impacting flow/performance........I just don't buy it. I mean it is REALLY crushed down.
5. Install of the AWE System was really smooth. I've done a lot of projects on my track cars over the years and this was one of the most fun and rewarding I can remember. Everything goes together perfectly, really high quality tubing, clamps, tips - perfect. Fun to work on your car when the parts are this good.
6. Aligning the tips exactly the way you want them is also very easy. I went for a bit more poke to get the AWE emblems showing and to show off these fantastic tips. Lots of adjustment is available. Really well done.
7. Some cool details too like the engraved bridge between the two pipes behind the rear differential and the serial # pad on the driver pipe just ahead of the tips. Stuff like this just makes you smile and reminds you that AWE takes pride in their work.
8. Ok.....what it's all about....how does it sound? Badass!
Yes, it is really loud - but not obnoxious - just old school muscle loud. Sounds pissed off at idle and ready to run. Here is the link to the first cold start. I had hoped to have some drive-by videos under WOT by now, but the weather has not cooperated. When I can get some I'll post them on this thread. As we all know a phone video does not do any exhaust clip justice, but I hope that this gives you some idea. After the video clip I attached all the pics I referenced.
9. One last thing....OEM system weighed in at 80.5lbs and the AWE System was 56.6lbs for a weight savings of 23.9lbs.
Hope this is helpful/useful for those considering an aftermarket exhaust upgrade. I can HIGHLY recommend AWE!!
https://youtu.be/XxPzNRgLaqA
