Aston Martin DB9 Velocity AP Exhaust: Performance and Installation Guide
The Aston Martin DB9 Velocity AP Exhaust has become a sought‑after upgrade for owners who want a louder, more aggressive tone without sacrificing the refined character of the classic DB9. Designed by AP Exhaust, the system replaces the factory muffler with a dual‑pipe configuration that reduces weight, improves flow, and adds a distinctive exhaust note that turns heads on every road.
Why Choose the Velocity AP Exhaust?
There are three primary reasons enthusiasts opt for the Velocity AP Exhaust on their DB9:
- Weight reduction: The factory muffler weighs nearly 70 lb, often described as a “briefcase” muffler. Swapping it for the AP system shaves off a significant amount of unsprung mass, enhancing handling and acceleration.
- Sound quality: AP’s tuned chambers deliver a deep, throaty roar that is louder than stock but still refined enough for daily driving.
- Performance gain: Improved exhaust flow reduces back‑pressure, allowing the V12 to breathe more freely and recover a few horsepower and torque points.
Installation Overview
Installing the Velocity AP Exhaust is a manageable project for anyone with basic mechanical skills. I installed the system on my DB9 last month, and the process took roughly three hours from start to finish. Below is a step‑by‑step outline:
- Raise the car safely using jack stands and remove the rear wheels.
- Locate the factory muffler and disconnect the exhaust hangers.
- Unbolt the “briefcase” muffler and carefully lower it to free the rear‑end space.
- Fit the AP Exhaust’s dual‑pipe assembly, aligning the flange bolts with the existing exhaust pipe.
- Tighten all fasteners to the manufacturer’s torque specifications and reinstall the hangers.
- Re‑mount the wheels, lower the car, and start the engine to check for leaks.
During my installation, I removed the nearly 70 lb “briefcase” muffler from my DB9 and immediately noticed a reduction in rear
