Fabspeed Vs Nhp Cat-Bypass Pipes

[gwoodburn]

I have been looking into upgrading to a set of cat-bypass pipes for my 2003 Boxster S and was wondering if anyone had an opinion one way or the other on whether to go with Fabspeed or NHP. I have notices a few differences that I like/dislike about each:

I know that many people have had good things to say about the Fabspeed pipes so I expect they would be a great choice, but in every picture I have seen it does not look like the pipe bends are exactly the same as factory. Will this cause any problems with the exhaust being to close to other components (i.e. CV joints)? Is there an advantage to them being slightly different than stock (better flow)? And they also do not appear to have any sort of heat shield to protect other components if it does comes too close. Is an exhaust wrap recommended?

I like the heat shields on the NHP's, and they look to follow the exact pipe bends of the factory pipes, but from the pictures I have seen look to have the O2 sensor holes which I dont need for an '03. Not sure if its just a generic pic they put up for all model years, but I wouldn't want to have to plug something I don't need. Also if I do have to plug them, is there any issue with it causing more turbulance in exhaust flow? Also I haven't actually read as much about anyone using these. Are they a good fit and quality?

Other than these differences that I have noticed from pictures, they both look like good choices. Both are stainless, mandrel bent, come with hardware, about the same price, and appear to be the same 50mm diameter (i think). I would assume that they sound and perform the same, but again i could be wrong. Any opinions?

If anyone else knows anything about these I should know before making a decision or has a recommendation for a different brand, please let me know

Edited April 28, 2010 by gwoodburn

[steve_wilwerding]

Sent you a PM.

[tobi]

I have the same questions. I have a 2004 Boxster 986, so the O2 sensors are not required at the cat/bypass pipes.

To gwoodburn, which one did you end up getting? Can you feel the difference in sound and performance with he cat bypass pipes?

[AndyA6]

I have the same questions. I have a 2004 Boxster 986, so the O2 sensors are not required at the cat/bypass pipes.

To gwoodburn, which one did you end up getting? Can you feel the difference in sound and performance with he cat bypass pipes?

Man, this is an old thread. However I installed the Fabspeed pipes and they fit very well. Sound is great (deeper) and def some improvement in the power dept.