would it be possible to cut the oem header on the red line and plug it into a collector similar to the one in the image linked (see images) to do a diy cat delete then run straightpipe to a flange to a catback exhaust? my state doesnt do inspections or emissions regulations and id like to make it louder and slightly stronger i can't find a catless header for my car under $700 and if this will work it would only cost about $50 plus a reflash to keep the cel off 

You won't gain anything from this. The cat is not a restriction for a non turbo. Go get a WRX if you want to play this game.

 

GD

I've had two Ej series cars with leaks at the cats and one Impreza that I bought that was a welded straight pipe to the muffler.

 

All were noticeably peppier after getting back to normal. Opening the exhaust on these cars makes them gutless. (MPG suffer as well)

 

http://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/exhaustbackpressure.html  Read up. You're already much farther ahead by doing nothing than trying to reinvent Subarus wheel for them. If you want it to sound fast and furious - put a fart can on it. If you want it to be speedy, don't touch the exhaust. If you want to be fast and furious, buy a WRX as mentioned, but also carry plenty of insurance and save up for the cost of repairing it frequently.

what mods and in what order would you suggest to get more power out of this car without boosting/rebuilding with forged internals. its kind of a pet project at this point as i dont have the money to shell out for a wrx right now. im not asking for an insane amount of power just "more" 

Edited March 16, 20179 yr by Subar00

Higher compression pistons, cams, tuning. You can't get much but a good tuner could probably get 25 HP.

 

GD

Yeah. Just keep it clean and running well. Subaru did its job well. There's really nothing to be gained with any bolt on mods. Don't carry a lot in the trunk. Enjoy the ride. Save for a wrx if you want lots of speed, but know it comes with a higher price tag and far more, and more expensive, maintenance.