If you’re an automotive enthusiast with a need for speed and a taste for refinement, then performance upgrades are always on your radar—especially when it comes to luxury performance vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG C63 W205 and A45S. These cars are already beasts in stock form, but if you’re chasing that extra power, throttle response, or simply want your engine to breathe better, it might be time to consider upgrading your downpipes.
Downpipes are an essential component in your car’s exhaust system, and upgrading them can have a significant impact on performance. Whether you’re looking at mercedes c63 w205 catted and catless downpipes or the increasingly popular Mercedes A45S decat downpipe, there’s a lot to unpack.
What’s a Downpipe Anyway?
A downpipe connects the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust system. In turbocharged engines like the ones found in the C63 W205 and A45S, downpipes play a crucial role in how exhaust gases flow out of the turbo. The more efficiently the gases exit, the quicker your turbo can spool up, which leads to faster throttle response and more power.
Downpipes come in two main varieties: catted (with a catalytic converter) and catless (without one). Each has its own pros and cons, depending on your goals.
Mercedes C63 W205: Catted vs Catless Downpipes
The Mercedes-AMG C63 W205, with its thunderous 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine, responds incredibly well to downpipe upgrades. Here’s how each option differs:
Catted Downpipes
These come with high-flow catalytic converters and are designed to reduce harmful emissions while still allowing for improved exhaust flow over stock. The sound is a bit more refined and slightly louder than stock but won’t turn heads in a bad way. They are also more likely to pass emissions tests, which makes them a smart choice for those who use their car on the road daily.
Catless Downpipes
These eliminate the catalytic converter altogether, allowing for maximum exhaust flow. The results? Sharper throttle response, more aggressive sound, and a noticeable increase in horsepower. However, they are not street-legal in many regions due to emissions regulations and may trigger a check engine light unless paired with a proper ECU tune.
For those who prioritize raw performance and track use, catless downpipes make a compelling case. But if you want to keep things slightly more civilized while still unlocking gains, catted downpipes strike a better balance.
Mercedes A45S and the Power of Decat Downpipes
The Mercedes A45S is a high-performance hatchback with a ferocious turbocharged inline-4 engine. It’s already a force to be reckoned with in stock form, but if you’re itching for more power and aggression, a decat downpipe upgrade can bring it to life.
Installing a mercedes a45s decat downpipe increases the flow of exhaust gases by removing the catalytic converter, reducing backpressure and letting the turbo work more efficiently. You’ll notice faster turbo spool-up, improved mid-range torque, and a louder, more crackly exhaust note. This mod is especially popular among tuning communities looking to maximize the car’s potential before diving into bigger upgrades like hybrid turbos or meth injection.
Do note: just like with the C63 W205, removing the cat on the A45S means you’ll likely need an ECU tune to prevent warning lights and to fully benefit from the modification.
Should You Go for It?
If you’re chasing performance and don’t mind the louder exhaust or occasional CEL (check engine light), both catless and decat downpipes are powerful tools in your modification arsenal. For those in stricter emission zones or who prefer a more refined tone, catted downpipes are a solid compromise.