Whether it’s the 3, 3.8 or 4.0 L unit, there’s nothing better than the distinct gurgle of an idling, well-tuned Porsche engine. Apart from, maybe, the throaty roar of the same unit. So, what are your options for making those cylinders really sing? And are there other tweaks or upgrades to turbocharge your driving pleasure? Let’s take a look.

It’s not just 991 owners who appreciate the acoustics of the Porsche powerpack – the Porsche Design studio created these beautiful soundbars that promise to ‘translate the sports car fascination into brilliant soundscapes’ and those guys know what they’re talking about.

But if you want to confine your music to the back end of your 991, there are some ‘rev-olutionary’ after-market exhaust upgrades out there. Let’s look at what could be fine-tuning your engine note this month – and the other garage essentials you didn’t know you needed…

First off the grid is this Akrapovic slip-on line titanium exhaust system. The Akrapovic brand may be new to you, but not the industry, as they have proven themselves over many years in the motorsports arena – and that’s a tough proving ground.

This Slovenian manufacturer promises ‘unmistakable sound, innovative design, lightweight construction, craftsmanship, and durability’ from many of the same brand values as Porsche themselves.

Having an in-house titanium foundry and metallurgical laboratory means this unit – and optional sound kit give the driver’s electronics full valve control. How does that work? In short, closed valves mean a resonant bass, whereas open valves give the road-bound Porsche a nice racing vibe. Similarly, this link pipe set with cat bypass is finished in titanium and is an easy-fit upgrade option.

More room to vroom.

Similarly, this DesignTek® option promises to enhance the sound and performance of your Porsche 991S. The package includes a rear centre box with valves, side muffler boxes and lush, chrome plated, tail pipes. It’s innovative sound switch works in a similar way to the Akrapovic. A closed switch means a deeper tone. Open it and you’re in full Silverstone soundtrack mode.

This Race Exhaust Muffler system with bypass X-Pipe and opening and closing valves is another ‘Porsche perfect’ product from the same manufacturer, and probably more achievable in terms of budget. More back-end bangs per buck, if you like.

Cat power

Meanwhile this Fabspeed Exhaust Supersport STREET X-Pipe Exhaust System offers sport cats rather than a bypass option to replaces the standard issue heavy and restrictive factory rear mufflers and catalytic converters, and represents – they claim – an upgrade in power and sound. Pre-loaded with 200-cell HJS Sport Cats and deluxe quad-style tips, sports cars never sounded so sweet.

Go chrome or go home.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to go chrome, this DesignTek Exhaust manifold header with catalyst bypass could be right up your street. Bear in mind, though, this isn’t MOT-compliant so if you see blue lights in the rear-view mirror, that’s not something your owners’ handbook can help with.

Did you know a faulty oxygen sensor can waste 30% of your fuel? And right now, no-one wants excessive fuel consumption. So, consider this clever little piece of in-engine innovation.

Faulty sensor alert?

This Lambda Sensor sits in the exhaust manifold and measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your engine’s exhaust and talks to your engine computer. Together, they’ll balance the air/fuel mixture for “optimum engine performance and emission control.” Now that sounds like a smart move.

If you’re looking for a happy ending for your 991 GT3, then this DesignTek Exhaust Tail pipe in carbon fibre with aluminium end could be slick finish you’re looking for. It fits over the Porsche rear muffler, gets a five-star product review, and is currently offered at a discount. Nice pipes, sir.

Insane Bolts

Broken exhaust bolts. Who needs ‘em, eh? The problem isn’t so much the issue itself (although no-one’s claiming it’s a good thing) but replacing them. Even straightforward tasks such as an exhaust system update become unhelpfully complicated when exhaust manifold bolts fail.

With the engine in situ, bolt extraction isn’t easy and getting it wrong can cause a damaged head (and skinned knuckles). So hurray for Stomski Racing. Their SR069 kit easily, accurately, and flexibly enables stress free bolt removal even with the engine in place.

No rust for the wicked

Finally, let’s talk high performance stud and nut kits that create a beautiful union between exhaust manifold and cylinder head. It’s an important gig, not helped by oxidization. So, Silverlake use titanium and Inconel alloy studs, aerospace lock nuts, and a well-thought and balanced combination of metals and plating/coatings to upgrade standard-issue They will never oxidize and will always unscrew when required. You can shop all Silverlake kits here.

That’s all folks…

…for now, anyway. But we’re always happy to share the innovations that make the 991 such a special car. We’ll be happy to share more soon, and if you hear of something we should know about – or need a hand keeping your Porsche purring, then get in touch by email or phone.

This particular 991 Coupe Carrera is for sale with the guys at William Francis. You can read more information here on the car, where you will find detailed information about the car, including its features, specifications, and pricing.

991 (911) MK1 & MK2 2012-2018