For owners of the 2018–2022 Ford Mustang GT, upgrading the exhaust is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. It transforms the driving experience with a more aggressive sound, sharper throttle response, and often a modest power increase. Among the many aftermarket options, the Borla S-Type cat-back exhaust stands out as a favorite for enthusiasts who want a noticeable upgrade without crossing into race-car territory. This in-depth review covers everything you need to know about the Borla S-Type for the S550 Mustang GT, including its construction, sound profile, performance gains, installation, and long-term value.

Overview of Borla S-Type Exhaust for Ford Mustang GT (2018–2022)

The Borla S-Type is a cat-back exhaust system designed to replace the factory exhaust from the catalytic converters back to the tailpipes. It is engineered to improve exhaust flow, reduce backpressure, and deliver a more aggressive, refined exhaust note. Borla offers several exhaust lines for the Mustang GT, including the Touring (mild), S-Type (moderate), and ATAK (aggressive). The S-Type hits the sweet spot between daily-driver comfort and performance-oriented sound. It is constructed from T-304 austenitic stainless steel, which is the highest grade of stainless steel used in exhaust systems, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a polished, long-lasting finish. The system uses mandrel-bent tubing to maintain a consistent inside diameter, ensuring smooth gas flow and maximizing potential power gains.

Key Features of the Borla S-Type Exhaust

  • T-304 Stainless Steel Construction: Unlike cheaper 409 stainless steel, T-304 resists rust and pitting even in harsh climates. The polished finish also looks great underneath the car.
  • Cat-Back Design: Replaces everything from the catalytic converters rearward. Installation requires no cutting, welding, or modifications to the factory hangers.
  • Mandrel-Bent Tubing: Eliminates restrictions caused by crush bending, allowing exhaust gases to exit more freely. This contributes to both sound quality and performance.
  • Patented Multi-Core Straight-Through Muffler Technology: Borla’s proprietary muffler design uses multiple perforated cores to tune the sound while minimizing backpressure. The result is a deep, aggressive tone that doesn't drone at cruising speeds.
  • Polished 4-Inch Tips: Two large, double-walled tips (available in polished stainless or carbon fiber) give the rear of the Mustang a more aggressive look. The tips are engraved with the Borla logo.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Borla backs the S-Type with a limited lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.
  • Easy Bolt-On Installation: All clamps and hardware are included, and the system uses factory-style hangers and flanges. Most DIYers with basic tools can install it in about an hour to two hours.
  • OEM-Style Flanges and Gaskets: The kit includes high-quality gaskets and bolted flanges for a leak-free seal. No need to reuse old gaskets.

Performance and Sound Experience

The Borla S-Type exhaust delivers a blend of sound and performance that has made it one of the top-selling cat-back systems for the Mustang GT. Here’s a closer look at each aspect.

Sound Character

The S-Type produces a deep, throaty growl at idle that immediately signals there’s something special under the car. At low RPMs (under 2,500), the exhaust is noticeably louder than stock but still refined enough for residential neighborhoods. As the revs climb, the tone becomes more aggressive, with a pronounced bark at wide-open throttle. At around 4,000 RPM, the sound transitions into a searing wail that rivals some of the best-sounding V8s on the market. The exhaust does not sound raspy or tinny; instead, it maintains a rich, full-bodied note across the rev range. Cruising at highway speeds (60–80 mph) in sixth gear, the S-Type is surprisingly quiet, with very little drone inside the cabin. This is a critical consideration for daily drivers—many aftermarket exhausts cause fatigue on long trips, but the S-Type’s sound tuning effectively minimizes interior drone without sacrificing the aggressive tone when you get on the gas.

Performance Gains

Borla claims up to 15 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque at the wheels on a stock Mustang GT. Independent dyno tests from reputable Mustang forums and shops have shown gains in the range of 10–15 horsepower, with the peak gains occurring in the mid-RPM range (3,500–5,500 RPM). The reduction in backpressure also improves throttle response, making the car feel more eager and responsive when you step on the accelerator. It is worth noting that these gains are typical for a cat-back system on a naturally aspirated V8; pairing the S-Type with a cold air intake and a tune can further increase power. But as a standalone exhaust, the Borla S-Type provides a noticeable seat-of-the-pants improvement.

Drone and Noise Level Comparison

ConditionSound Level (Subjective)Drone
Cold startModerate (chirper controlled)None
Idle after warmDeep rumble, noticeable but not intrusiveNone
Light acceleration (0–3,000 RPM)Mildly aggressive, great for daily drivingMinimal
Moderate acceleration (3,000–5,000 RPM)Loud and aggressiveSlight drone at steady 2,500 RPM, but quickly passes
Wide-open throttleVery loud, race-car likeNo drone (WOT doesn’t drone)
Highway cruise (70 mph, 6th gear)Slightly louder than stock, but comfortableNegligible – one of the lowest drone levels in this category

Borla S-Type vs. Other Borla Exhaust Systems

Borla offers three main cat-back options for the 2018–2022 Mustang GT, each targeting a different sound preference.

Borla ATAK

The ATAK (Acoustically Tuned Aero Kinetic) is the loudest of the three. It uses a different muffler design that produces a more aggressive, raw sound with less sound deadening. The ATAK is significantly louder under all conditions and has more interior drone than the S-Type. It is best suited for track cars or owners who want maximum volume and don’t mind the noise penalty on daily drives.

Borla Touring

The Touring system is the quietest option, designed to offer a mild improvement over stock without attracting attention. It sounds deeper than stock but is still very reserved. The Touring is ideal for those who want a subtle enhancement and prioritize near-silent highway cruising. It sacrifices the aggressive character that many Mustang enthusiasts seek.

Why the S-Type Is the Best Middle Ground

The S-Type occupies the sweet spot: it provides a truly aggressive, head-turning sound when you push the throttle, yet remains civil enough for daily commuting and road trips. The drone control is excellent for a system in this noise level category. For most owners who drive their Mustang daily and also enjoy spirited weekend drives, the S-Type is the logical choice.

Installation Guide

Installing the Borla S-Type exhaust on a 2018–2022 Mustang GT is a straightforward bolt-on job that most mechanically inclined owners can complete in a weekend. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Floor jack and two jack stands
  • 1/2-inch drive ratchet and socket set (metric 10mm, 13mm, 15mm, 18mm)
  • WD-40 or penetrating oil
  • Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
  • Flathead screwdriver (to pry off hanger insulators)
  • Rubber mallet (helpful for stubborn hangers)
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Prepare the car: Lift the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack and place jack stands under the frame rails. Ensure the car is stable. Let the exhaust cool completely to avoid burns.
  2. Remove the factory exhaust: Starting at the rear, unbolt the stock muffler assembly from the hangers. The factory system is typically held by four rubber hangers and two flanges at the intermediate pipes. Soak the bolts with penetrating oil if they are rusted. Use a 15mm socket to remove the bolts at the flanges. Slide the muffler section off the hangers. You may need to disconnect the rear bumper valance clips or remove the diffuser if your car is equipped with active exhaust. On non-active exhaust cars, the tailpipe tips slide out through the bumper cutouts.
  3. Remove the intermediate pipes: The stock exhaust has two separate intermediate pipes that connect the catalytic converters to the resonators/mufflers. Unbolt the flanges (13mm bolts) and remove these pipes. On some models, you may need to drop the exhaust hangers to get clearance.
  4. Install the Borla S-Type intermediate pipes: The Borla kit comes with new intermediate pipes that replace the stock ones. Slide them into the rubber hangers first (use a little soapy water if tight). Do not tighten the clamps yet—leave all connections loose to allow adjustment.
  5. Install the rear muffler section: Position the Borla mufflers and tailpipes, inserting the tips through the bumper cutouts. Hang the muffler assembly onto the rubber hangers. Connect the rear section to the intermediate pipes using the supplied clamps and gaskets. Again, leave clamps loose.
  6. Align and tighten: With all components in place but loose, adjust the tailpipe tips so they are centered in the bumper cutouts and the mufflers are not contacting the chassis. Torque all flange bolts to 35 ft-lb and clamp bolts to 40 ft-lb. Double-check that all hangers are properly seated.
  7. Test and inspect: Start the engine and listen for any leaks at the connections. A small puff of smoke from the gaskets during initial warm-up is normal as they seal. Let the car idle and check for rattles. Take a short test drive to confirm the sound and check for drone at various RPMs.

Most owners report a total installation time of 1–2 hours. Professional installation at a muffler shop typically costs between $100 and $200 if you prefer not to do it yourself. A professional alignment of the tips is often worth the fee for a perfect fit.

Pros and Cons of the Borla S-Type Exhaust

Pros

  • Outstanding Sound Quality: Deep, aggressive, and refined. It evokes the classic muscle car growl without sounding like a straight-pipe race car.
  • Minimal Drone: Among the best in its class. Highway cruising is comfortable, which is rare for a system this loud.
  • Noticeable Performance Gain: Real-world dyno results of 10–15 horsepower at the wheels. Throttle response improves.
  • Premium Build Quality: T-304 stainless steel, precision welds, and a polished finish that resists corrosion.
  • Easy Installation: Direct-fit, no cutting or welding required. Instructions are clear.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Peace of mind for the long term. Borla’s customer service is generally well-regarded.
  • Weight Reduction: The Borla system saves about 15–20 pounds compared to the heavy stock exhaust.
  • Potential for Increased Resale Value: A well-known aftermarket exhaust can be a selling point for enthusiasts.

Cons

  • Higher Price Point: The Borla S-Type is more expensive than many competitors like MBRP or Flowmaster. Expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 depending on tip options and sales.
  • Increased Noise Misaligned with Some Owners’ Expectations: While the S-Type is not the loudest option, it is still significantly louder than stock. If you want a quiet exhaust, this is not the right choice. Some daily drivers may find it too loud in cold-start situations (though the sound fades quickly as the idle drops).
  • Partial Drone at Certain RPMs: A few owners report a subtle drone at around 2,000–2,200 RPM under light load. This is not universal and varies by car and transmission (automatic vs. manual). The intensity is much lower than competitors, but it is worth noting.
  • No Options for Active Exhaust Integration (pre-2020): If your 2018–2019 Mustang GT has the factory active valve performance exhaust, the Borla S-Type does not retain that feature. You would need a system like the Ford Performance by Borla or a custom solution. For 2020+ models, Borla offers an Active Exhaust version (separate part number).
  • Tips May Need Periodic Cleaning: The polished stainless steel tips show fingerprints and exhaust soot more readily. Regular cleaning with metal polish keeps them looking new.

Maintenance and Warranty

One of the major advantages of the Borla S-Type is its low-maintenance design. The T-304 stainless steel does not rust, so you don’t need to worry about undercoating or paint. Over time, the internal packing material in the mufflers can break down, but Borla’s lifetime warranty covers defects, including muffler failure, for the original owner. If a muffler begins to sound hollow or drones excessively, Borla will replace it. Keep your original receipt and warranty card. For cleaning, use a mild automotive cleaner and a microfiber cloth on the tips. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads that can scratch the polished surface.

User Reviews and Community Feedback

The Borla S-Type exhaust has consistently received high marks on forums like Mustang6G and Mustang Evolution, as well as on retailer sites like American Muscle and CJ Pony Parts. Common praise includes the “perfect balance” of sound and daily usability. Many users report that after the initial break-in period (a few hundred miles), the exhaust deepens and develops a richer tone. Negative reviews are rare and usually center on the price or the fact that it does not integrate with the factory active exhaust system on pre-2020 cars. Owners with automatic transmissions appreciate the lack of drone at highway speeds, while manual owners enjoy the ability to row through gears and hear the exhaust sing. The S-Type is also popular among supercharged Mustang GT owners who need a free-flowing exhaust without excessive noise.

Price and Value Comparison

At a retail price of roughly $1,200–$1,600 (depending on tip finish and whether it's the active exhaust version), the Borla S-Type sits at the premium end of the cat-back market. Competitors like the MBRP Street or Race series offer similar sound levels for $600–$800, but with 409 stainless steel and often less thorough sound tuning. The Corsa Xtreme system is comparable in price and drone elimination but has a different, more raspy sound profile. The Ford Performance by Borla Touring is slightly cheaper but less aggressive. When evaluating value, consider the S-Type’s lifetime warranty, superior material quality, and proven sound engineering. For many owners, the extra investment is worth it for a system that will last the life of the car and satisfy their ears every day.

Final Verdict

The Borla S-Type exhaust for the 2018–2022 Ford Mustang GT is an excellent choice for drivers who want a significant upgrade in both sound and performance without sacrificing daily driving comfort. Its combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful acoustic tuning, and bolt-on installation makes it a standout in a crowded market. While it commands a premium price, the S-Type delivers a mature, refined exhaust note that satisfies enthusiasts and remains tolerable on long trips. If you’re looking to wake up your Mustang GT’s Coyote V8, the Borla S-Type is one of the best investments you can make.

For more information, visit the official Borla product page, check real owner reviews on Mustang6G, or watch installation walkthroughs on YouTube (search for “Borla S-Type Mustang GT install”).