Rep Power: 0

Considered purchasing a fairly cheap Axel-Back exhaust. Since my civic is damn near stock and its a DX without the tachometer. My dilemma is that since this car runs so quiet when taking off into first or backing up its hard to gauge how much throttle Im using, especially if the radio is on or I have some buddies in the car just talking. Often I either under throttle and come damn near close or in some cases do indeed stall it, or over throttle it and take off rather abruptly. I'm looking into an exhaust for several reasons: 1. it adds a slight appearance gain IMO over the stock hunk of metal, 2. Accenting the exhaust note makes it much easier in slow-speed maneuvers engaging/disengaging clutch. 3. This weeks paycheck can be spent on my car without any guilt
However I've heard rumors that these slap-on mufflers without any prior tunning can adversely affect performance ie. loss of low-end torque, poor gas mileage
Can anyone confirm these rumors and any reconmendation on exhaust brand or whether or not to go a different route in my situation would be greatly appreciated.

 
Rep Power: 812

you are looking at most a 1hp gain or loss, i doubt you will notice and difference except sound. a bolt-on rear section would be easiest since there is no cutting/welding involved, and you can go back to stock later if you get tired of the sound. but rear sections are more expensive since it replaces the factory muffler with bolts and gasket.

 
Rep Power: 352

the only thing a "fairly cheap axle back" will hurt is ur ears and everyone else's around you.

 
Rep Power: 0

the hks axleback is a really good one, only thing is that it isnt too cheap. I have that plus a res delete and it sounds reallyy good

 
Rep Power: 191

Had a 3inch axle back on my old Civic Si (EX for you Americans). Didn't do squat. Sounded a BIT louder in the lower RPM range, and looked ridiculously big. I would say it was a waste of money had I not sold it for $40 more than purchase price.

Look into full catback exhausts, hell, headers aren't out of the questions seeing how easy to install and cheap they are on ebay. Also, don't get into the "backpressure" debate, 98% of people don't know what they're talking about when it comes to that topic. You want a smooth inner pipe wall from block to muffler tips, one that doesn't cause turbulence and drag.

Im debating whether or not to replace headers on my 01 beater (1.7 EL) just because they'd look better when I sell it. For $50 shipped, how can I lose?

 
Rep Power: 285

A decent option aside from from getting headers is just repainting the heat shield and headers with header or bbq paint, it makes a world of difference for less than $10.