Mufflers are intrinsic to having an A1 exhaust system, and for good reasons. Yes, a muffler’s functionality goes beyond having a quieting effect on your vehicle. So today, we’ll be considering how the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40 impact your vehicle in different ways.
Despite being a relatively simple modification, these components can alter the sound of your vehicle dramatically. From producing a deep, hearty growl to a soft, quiet purr, different mufflers will impact your vehicle differently.
Most vehicles come fitted with a muffler. However, that in no way means you can’t upgrade to one that better meets your requirements!
If you’re considering an upgrade but aren’t sure where to start, this article is for you! So, if you’re ready for some ‘sound advice’ on the features, pros, and cons of industry leader Flowmaster’s products, keep reading!
Key Differences Between Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40
We will delve into the intricacies of the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40. However, before that, here’s an overview of how they’re different from each other:
Flowmaster Super 40
Construction | Made from aluminized steel |
Casing | Thicker |
Design | Broad design, making it compatible with fewer vehicles |
Sound | Subdued, deep sound |
Flowmaster Super 44
Construction | Made from stainless steel |
Casing | Thinner |
Design | Compact design, making it compatible with several vehicles |
Sound | Aggressive, deep sound |
Insight Into Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40 Features
First thing’s first, you should know that the Flowmaster Super 44 is the upgrade to the Super 40. So despite this being a comparison between the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40, don’t be surprised when similarities crop up!
This section will give you an in-depth tour of the many outstanding features of the two mufflers. While we’re at that, we’ll also be highlighting the differences between them!
Sound
Since we’re discussing mufflers, it’s only natural to tackle their primary function first, their effect on a vehicle’s sound. Both the Flowmaster Super 40 and the Super 44 emit a deep and powerful sound.
That said, there are differences between the two.
The Super 40, which is the muffler that put Flowmaster on the map, generates a classic muscle car sound. The reason being, it comes with a thicker casing, capable of producing powerful growls.
The one downside to the Super 40, though, is that it produces some amount of noise within the vehicle’s cabin.
The Super 40 is widely recognized as the louder of the two, but there is a unique element to the Super 44’s sound. This upgraded version generates a sound that has a more aggressive bite to it. However, the Super 44 also produces a bit of interior resonance like its predecessor.
So in the battle between the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40, the former wins in terms of deepness. However, the latter takes the throne for being louder.
Delta Flow Technology
Let’s talk about Flowmaster 44 vs. 40 in terms of their Delta Flow Technology on the topic of interior resonance. This feature is pretty much identical in the two mufflers and works to keep sound primarily outside your vehicle.
Since the two muffler chambers come with precision deflectors, the sound within your vehicle’s cabin is fairly reduced. Without such a design, the interior resonance will be a lot higher with both the Super 40 and the Super 44.
One thing to note, though, is that neither muffler entirely eliminates the sound within the vehicle. However, they minimize the sound enough for you to listen to your stereo clearly.
It’s also worth noting that some drivers claim to like the interior noise just as much as the exterior sound!
Performance
So, here’s the catch, most mufflers tend to limit a vehicle’s performance somewhat. While this decrease is nowhere near massive, it’s enough to be noticeable. Think of it like this, the louder noise from an upgraded muffler comes with a little compromise on performance.
The Flowmaster Super 40 and Super 44 are no different.
With the Flowmaster Super 40, you will likely notice a change in the overall power of your vehicle. While the muffler does take horsepower up a notch, it reduces low-end power at the same time.
The change is minuscule enough to prevent you from ditching or replacing the muffler altogether. However, it is still worth mentioning.
The Super 44 is much the same. Here, too, the muffler primarily focuses on regulating noise with a modest boost in horsepower. Beyond this, though, there’s not much that will change about your vehicle’s performance with this muffler.
Installation
No matter which vehicular component you choose to upgrade, the installation will likely be the trickiest part of the process.
That said, both the Flowmaster Super 40 and Super 44 are relatively easy to install compared to other mufflers in the market. So as long as you have some experience with auto mechanics, installing either muffler should be a piece of cake for you!
What’s more, the installation process requires no special tools! In fact, the toolkit you have at home should more than suffice.
If you’re a complete newbie to installing mufflers, though, it is advisable to rely on a mechanic who knows what they’re doing.
What’s Unique About The Flowmaster Super 40?
Flowmaster Super 40 may be the older of the two mufflers, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have special features! In this section, we’ll go over the traits unique to this muffler. Peruse through them and decide whether this sounds like your ideal muffler!
Aluminized Steel Construction
To begin with, the Flowmaster Super 40 is constructed with aluminized steel. As such, you can have the utmost confidence in this muffler’s durability. What’s more, this material is also incredibly resistant to corrosion. If that isn’t enough, this muffler comes with a 3-year warranty on workmanship defects!
Thick Casing
Between the Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40, the latter has a thicker casing. With dimensions measuring 20×10.5 inches and a thickness of 5.5 inches, this thick case has quite the effect on your vehicle’s sound.
The case is the muffler component that produces the powerful, throaty sound of a real muscle car!
However, this thick casing can prove to be a problem in some cases. Since the muffler is bulkier, it is compatible with a smaller selection of vehicles. So if your vehicle has limited room for a muffler, it’s more than likely that this muffler will not fit.
What’s Unique About The Flowmaster Super 44?
Since the Flowmaster Super 44 is an upgrade, it comes with some unique features you won’t find in its predecessor. So let’s consider the characteristics that set this muffler apart from the Flowmaster Super 40. Perhaps you’ll find the new model more to your liking!
Stainless Steel Construction
Earlier, aluminized steel was the preferred material of construction for mufflers. However, over the years, many have gravitated towards stainless steel instead. While aluminized steel is still in use, people like stainless steel more because of its longevity and durability.
For this reason, the Flowmaster Super 44 is made with stainless steel. As such, you can be sure that this muffler will last you a long time, thanks to its robust construction! Not to mention, this material is also a lot more resistant to rust.
However, if you’re still on the fence, consider the Super 44’s outstanding warranty offer! This muffler comes with a lifetime warranty, something you won’t get with the Super 40.
Thin Casing
The Flowmaster Super 44 also features a much thinner casing between the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40. This small and compact muffler measures only 19 by 9.75 inches, with a thickness of 4 inches.
This muffler is ideal for those times when ground clearance is of the essence. After all, its slender design will give you all the additional space you require.
So if you’re worried about the muffler fitting your vehicle, opt for the former between the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40. Thanks to its compact size, the Super 44 muffler is compatible with far more vehicles than the Super 40!
Pricing Differences Between The Flowmaster 44 vs. 40
To begin with, you should know that both the Flowmaster Super 40 and Super 44 are budget-friendly mufflers. Not to mention, the high-quality sound they emit makes them well worth the price tag.
The actual difference between the prices of the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40 is pretty inconsequential as well. Naturally, this may come as a surprise considering the Super 44 is supposed to be an upgraded model.
However, it is worth noting that despite being an older model, the Super 40 has a loyal fanbase. Drivers who are looking for the sound of a real muscle car, in particular, tend to favor the Flowmaster Super 40. After all, the sound it produces is quite distinct from the Super 44 and other mufflers in the market!
Pros And Cons Of The Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40
Much like the two mufflers have different features, they also have their distinct plus and minus points. So in this section, we’ll walk you through all the pros and cons of the Flowmaster 44 vs. 40!
Flowmaster 40
Pros
First up are the benefits that come from installing the Super 40, Flowmaster’s original muffler.
- Stark improvement in your vehicle’s sound compared to that produced by an OEM muffler
- Enhanced horsepower will be noticeable
- Construction is quite sturdy and long-lasting
- Muffler has a super simple installation process
- Affordable price
Cons
Like any vehicular component, the Flowmaster Super 40 is not without its drawbacks.
- Aluminized steel is not as durable and rust resistant as stainless steel
- Does come with a warranty on workmanship defects, but it stands only for three years
- Despite having Delta Flow Technology, there is some interior resonance
- Muffler’s bulky design fits few vehicles
Flowmaster 44
Pros
Now, let’s consider the many advantages of the upgraded version, the Flowmaster Super 44.
- Muffler produces a sound that is a lot deeper and more aggressive than its predecessor
- Far more durable and corrosion-resistant due to stainless steel construction
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Slender and compact design of this muffler makes it compatible with several vehicles
- Fairly straightforward installation process
Cons
That said, the newer model has a few minor drawbacks as well.
- Muffler comes with Delta Flow Technology too, but some amount of inside noise is still present
- Quieter of the two between Flowmaster 44 vs. 40
What Are The Alternatives?
If you want to choose an alternative to the Flowmaster Super 40 and Flowmaster Super 44, there are a few options. While these might be better in some regards, they too have their pros and cons.
Let’s discuss some of these alternatives.
Borla 40359 Muffler
Borla has been one of the best-performance muffler manufacturers since 1978. The brand provides mufflers designed to increase your car’s horsepower and offer a satisfying and deep rumbling sound.
They also have a deep and unique sound. This is due to the aluminized design along with a centre outlet. Furthermore, this design choice helps the muffler produce an increasingly responsive throttle and more horsepower.
Depending on your application, the Borla 40359 can fit under a truck or a performance vehicle. Moreover, it can be a universal choice due to its centred inlet-outlet design configuration.
The muffler is oval-shaped. So, it might be a problem installing it in a tight space. Furthermore, the aluminum finish won’t last for many years and will soon lose its attractive finish.
Overall, we think this is one of the best alternatives to the Flowmaster Super 40 and 44.
Thrush Welded Muffler
The Thrush Welded muffler sports a two-chamber design which helps provide increased performance and an aggressive sound. Moreover, this design allows more air to channel through the case.
This design style helps it significantly improve performance and create a heavy sound. The Thrush Welded muffler can benefit both V6 and V8 engines. Furthermore, its 2.25-inch or 3-inch design, depending on the application, makes its installation very convenient.
It also houses a brushed stainless steel design which fights corrosion and salt better than most mufflers.
The sound produced by the Thrush Welded muffler is raw and loud. While this is an attractive feature, it can also be a drawback for some of you. Another drawback is that this muffler is aluminized. Thus, it is extremely attractive to look at but may rust over the years.
We recommend the Thrush Welded muffler should you be sporting a V6 engine or if you are a fan of a raw and loud sound.
Dynomax Super Turbo Muffler
The Dynomax Super Turbo muffler has large internal flow tubes, which helps it channel exhaust flow. Its design also helps it reduce turbulence and backpressure. Furthermore, it is known to produce a mellow tone.
The Dynomax Super Turbo muffler also has fiberglass matting technology. This technology helps it produce its mellow tone while also reducing internal resonance.
There is little to no drone with this muffler. Here, the high-flow turbo muffler style comes into action. The sound is louder than your standard exhaust but isn’t overpowering or excessively loud. Welded mufflers are better at producing louder and deeper sounds.
The installation is its most significant advantage as it’s easy to install and doesn’t attract too much attention. The company also offers a limited lifetime warranty with the muffler.
The drawbacks include the sound and aluminum make. While you can feel the tone deepen as you step on the gas, it is still fairly mellow. The aluminum makes it prone to rust, and you might need high-temperature paints to protect it.
We recommend this muffler if you want a mellower sound and decent performance boosts.
FAQs
Let’s discuss some of the most frequently asked questions about mufflers.
Will A Muffler Improve The Sound Of My Vehicle?
Yes. A muffler significantly improves the sound of your vehicle. You will hear a noticeable difference if you install a stock muffler.
Can I Install The Flowmaster Super 40 Or Super 44 At Home?
Yes, if you have decent experience in mechanics and vehicle repair. In case you don’t, it’s best to take it over to a mechanic.
Do I Get A Warranty With The Flowmaster Super 40 And Super 44?
Yes. The Flowmaster Super 40 has a warranty period of three years. The Super 44, on the other hand, has a limited lifetime warranty due to its stainless steel make.
How Do I Make Sure My Muffler Is Legal?
Check your state laws before the purchase. Your muffler might be illegal because of its loud sound or higher than legal emission levels.
Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40: Which Is Better?
The Flowmaster Super 40 and Super 44 are both first-rate mufflers. Here’s the takeaway: if you want a louder sound, choose the Super 40. However, if you prefer a deeper sound, opt for the Super 44.
That said, we must pick one of the two to answer this question, so we will choose the latter.
While the Super 40 is still a classic, its successor only just surpasses it. For starters, the Super 44 produces a unique sound that is both deep and more aggressive. Also, thanks to its slim design, it is more than likely compatible with the vehicle on hand.
Durability is another plus point with this muffler owing to its stainless steel construction. What’s more, if you do face any issues with the muffler, you can always make use of the lifetime warranty!
Also, while installing both mufflers is relatively easy, the Super 44’s compact size further simplifies the process.
The Flowmaster Super 44 produces a sound that is just right. While enhancing the noise to be deeper, it still maintains a decibel that doesn’t attract undue attention.
When you add this muffler to your vehicle, you’re sure to feel both the rich tone and the power gains. What’s more, you get to enjoy these benefits at a highly affordable price!
Wrap Up
With that, we come to the end of our detailed comparison between Flowmaster 44 Vs. 40! While we did favor the Super 44, remember that your preference matters most. However, you shouldn’t forget to consider the specific requirements of your vehicle when making a choice!
With these points in mind, you’re sure to make a ‘sound’ decision for your vehicle!
Sources: