UEL vs EL - 2nd Gen 86. Which is better?
 

I’m reaching out for some guidance on header options for my 2023 GR86, which I primarily use for autocross. I’ve been looking into both equal-length and unequal-length headers but am uncertain which would provide the best performance for my setup, particularly in an autocross environment.

I understand that unequal-length headers are known for enhancing mid-range torque, while equal-length headers can provide better top-end gains. Given the frequent acceleration and lower top speeds in autocross, I’m wondering which would be more advantageous for my specific needs. Additionally, I’d appreciate any insights on how each option might affect drivability and overall performance.

Based on this video: [MEDIA=youtube]oMjJgCpFhOs[/MEDIA] Seems to me like when tuned the equal and unequal are the same at the top range. The only benefit I see is the unequal gains you more at the midrange.

In addition, don’t forget that Verus is open to making the pan fit the UEL JDL headers. As well as possibly formula delta. [MEDIA=youtube]eBHT5b3sf9o[/MEDIA]

Is there heat concerns with certain cylinder banks, due to it being unequal? Since half the cylinders will be hotter than the others due to the run length of the headers to the cylinders 1&3 and 2&4.


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I think what you might *really* want to consider is EL vs. 4->2->1. I think the only benefits of UEL are 1. easier to design and fit a UEL header underneath a flat engine and 2. "boxer rumble".

Regarding EL vs. 4>2>1, a few years back a friend got a Tomei EL header and I got an ACE 350 4-2-1 with the longer more torquey tubes for the 2-1 part. Both 2017 cars. We both got good tunes, and then dynoed on the same day at the same place. He made 185hp and I made 179. But his torque dip was same or maybe worse than stock, while my torque dip was totally filled in and actually I made more peak torque around 4800 than he made anywhere.

At the track, my car was easier to extract quicker lap times due to more torque exiting corners and also more options (some corners where he *had* to go to 2nd, I could torque through in 3rd and save both a downshift and a costly upshift).

Anyway, my 0.02...

Just wondering - which 4->2->1 header is the one to go with FA24 ? JDL; SME or something else ? Is overpipe considered to be a restriction on Gen. 2 cars ?

Everything I have read says the 4-2-1 always performs better. So get that then UEl next.

From what we've seen on 2nd gen the header doesn't seem to matter nearly as much as it did on first gen.
If you aren't in the states go with whatever is most cost effective.

Seems like you also have to also consider the oil pans that can fit.

SME pan fits the SME header

Formula Delta pan TBD what headers fit last I saw

Verus Pan seems like it would fit JDL UEL (but you do need to put a few taps in the runners to get it to fit, last they shared with the community).


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I would not bet against the OEM header for power. But for midrange, losing the 1st cat and going 4-2-1 with long 2-1 tubes should gain you some midrange. But honestly $$$ might be better spent elsewhere!

Only reason I see to get one would be if someone makes a bigger pan specifically for it. Verus one looks compromised shaped to fit OEM headers.

That SME pan looks pretty interesting.