This exhaust configuration exits behind the front wheels and runs exposed along the lower side of the vehicle body, terminating before the rear wheels. Builders use this setup on custom cars and vintage sports cars to reduce exhaust backpressure and create a loud, aggressive exhaust note. Because the pipes run exposed near the doors, they pose a significant burn hazard to occupants entering or exiting the vehicle.
Heard on the job
Watch your calves getting out of the Corvette, those sidepipes get hot enough to melt skin.
Insider tip
Real sidepipes usually require heat shields to prevent serious leg burns, while many factory setups are just cosmetic covers hiding a standard under-car exhaust.