This post is relevant to the Porsche 718 Spyder, GT4, and GTS4.0 models as they share the same exhaust setup. Despite having the Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE) the factory exhaust valve programming does not actually fully open the exhaust until about 5000RPM. While this tends to not be an issue on track where RPM's will rarely drop below 5000, we noticed that street driving is not very satisfying with the factory control button.
With the factory valve control you can often hear the valve scrape and rattle at 2000 RPM or so when driving with the windows/top down. When going with a valve controller you have the option to fully open and fully close thus reducing the risk of metallic rattle sounds. The Cargraphic valve controller is our favourite option because the install is simple and elegant, it doesn't require running vacuum lines and is easily reversible. There may be cheaper valve controller options on the market but they would typically require more labour that would easily offset the price difference.
With the valve controller in the open position, the exhaust sounds a lot throatier at low RPM, even with a fully stock exhaust. In the closed position, it is significantly quieter than stock system even compared to the "PSE off" factory position. So you get the best of both worlds with a quieter system when you want it quiet, and a louder/deeper system when you want that.
For this 718 we went with a heat wrapped version of the Soul Over Axle Pipes. Most aftermarket over axle pipes offer a similar idea by removing the OPF (oil particulate filter) and offering a freer flowing design. The factory OAP has a crushed flat section near the front which is definitely more restrictive. Power gains with any OAP are found throughout the entire dyno curve and range between 15-30 WHP difference. A bit of weight is also reduced by deleting the OPF as well. In North America, the OPF's are not a monitored emissions device so this will not throw a check engine light (CEL)
The OAP and Valve Controller are arguably the most popular modifications on the 718 4.0 platforms as it makes the car more fun and faster while retaining OEM functionality. These will work with both PDK and manual cars. For a quote on upgrading your Porsche's exhaust system, contact us today!