Long Tube vs Short Tube Headers: Which Is Better for Your Ride?

The exhaust your pony left the factory with is not going to cut it if you are chasing real performance. Once you have handled the rest of the system, headers are the next move. There are two main types to weigh, long tube and short tube, and each has strengths and drawbacks that can make or break your setup. Let's dig in.

Why Headers?

Headers, also called tubular or extractor manifolds, help your engine breathe by cutting the backpressure your exhaust has to fight to escape. Backpressure is a real power killer. The tubes route each cylinder's exhaust to a common collector at staggered timing, keeping the whole system flowing smoothly. That is why they are one of the highest-impact exhaust upgrades you can make. But shorty versus long tube is the real question, so here are the pros and cons.

Short Tube Headers

Shorty headers give your manifolds free-flowing piping that improves performance even on a naturally aspirated motor, and they really shine with a turbo, where their compact size tucks in neatly alongside the turbo flange and piping. That size also makes them easier to install. They are ideal for idle-to-mid RPM, so for a daily driver or work truck, they may be the pick.

A big bonus: shorty headers are legal in all 50 states. Exhaust changes are a no-go in emissions-check states, so outside of a handful of states, a long-tube setup may not be street legal. Shorties are also less likely to draw noise complaints. The trade-off is that they are not as loud as long tubes and are not the best for high-RPM use, especially with a turbo, where all those rotations can hurt the turbo.

Long Tube Headers

Long tube headers work with naturally aspirated and supercharged setups, which makes them the choice if you want to max out RPM and tear up the track. They also have that roaring sound that makes it hard not to put your foot in it. The catches: they are not compatible with turbos, and they are not legal in all 50 states. Installing them usually means relocating or removing the catalytic converter, so the car will not pass emissions where it is required. They are also bigger and tougher to install, so plan on professional help unless you are well equipped.

Our Favorite Long Tube Headers

So what if they are not always legal? We love long tubes. For a race vehicle, they are the only choice, and the answer to "which sounds better" is always long tube. Here are a few of our favorites to make your Mustang gallop like never before.

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Keep reading: The Ultimate Mustang Mod Guide