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

Why Headers?

Why Headers? Headers (also called "tubular manifolds" or "extractor manifolds") are just another element of your exhaust system that helps your car "breathe" — intake air and let out exhaust. They do this by limiting the amount of backpressure that your exhaust has to overcome to escape, which can be a real power killer for your engine. The many tubes that make up a header direct each of your engine cylinders' exhaust to a main collector pipe at different times to keep the whole system free of backpressure and running smoothly. And that's why they're so important for improving the performance of your vehicle.

But again we're faced with the issue of shorty vs long tube headers, because they have unique strengths and drawbacks that could make or break your performance on the track. Let's dig into the pros and cons.

Short Tube Headers

This header style is a shorty you can be proud of. Shorty headers give your exhaust manifolds free flowing piping that'll improve the performance of even a naturally aspirated motor. But short tube headers really shine when they're used in conjunction with a turbocharger — their more compact size fits nicely in the engine bay right alongside your turbo flange and piping. Their size also makes them fairly easy to install. Short tube headers are ideal for vehicles in the idle to mid-RPM range, so if you're looking for more power in your daily ride or work pickup, they might be the option for you.

Another big benefit of shorty headers? They're legal in all 50 states. Playing around with your exhaust system is a big no-no in states that require emissions checks on vehicles, so unless you live in Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, South Carolina or South Dakota, your souped-up ride might not be street legal with long tube headers. Also, long tube headers are loud, so neighbors who don't appreciate the fine art of burning rubber might file a complaint.

As for drawbacks? Shorty headers aren't as loud as long tube headers, although they'll definitely have better sound than your stock manifold. You can choose unequal length headers for better sound, but equal length is the way to go for consistent gains in performance. Shorty headers also aren't generally used for high RPM situations, especially when used with a turbocharger — all those rotations can hurt your turbo!

Long Tube Headers

You've gotten a little preview of long tube headers in the previous section, but now we're gonna dig in deeper. Long tube headers work with naturally aspirated and supercharged applications, so you know what that means: long tube headers are unquestionably the option you want to go with if you want to max out your RPMs and tear up the track. They also have an awesome, roaring sound that'll make it hard to resist putting the petal to the metal whenever you get in the drivers seat.

So, aside from not being compatible with turbochargers, why the hell wouldn't you want long tube headers on your pony? Well, as we mentioned above, long tube headers don't fly in all 50 states. Installing them means either relocating or removing your catalytic converter altogether, so your car will not be able to pass an emissions test if you live in a state that requires them. Because of their size, long tube headers are also quite a bit more complicated to install than shorty headers, so you'll definitely need professional help if you're not experienced or equipped enough for this kind of upgrade. And, of course, there's the issue of sound.