The Audi RS6 C8 is a true masterpiece of German engineering. With its twin-turbo V8 engine, quattro all-wheel drive, and everyday practicality, it delivers an exhilarating blend of performance and comfort. But for enthusiasts who want to unleash even more power and excitement, upgrading the downpipes is one of the most effective modifications available. If you’re curious about audi rs6 c8 downpipes catless and catted, this guide will help you understand the differences, benefits, and what to expect.
Why Downpipes Matter
A downpipe connects the turbochargers to the exhaust system, directing hot gases away from the engine. Stock downpipes come with restrictive catalytic converters that reduce emissions but also limit airflow. By replacing them with high-performance catted or catless options, you can dramatically improve exhaust flow, turbo efficiency, and overall performance.
For the RS6 C8, which already makes impressive power in stock form, downpipe upgrades unlock an entirely new level of driving excitement.
Catted Downpipes
Catted downpipes include high-flow catalytic converters designed to reduce harmful emissions while still offering better airflow compared to stock. These are often the best choice for daily drivers who want a balance of performance, legality, and sound.
Advantages of Catted Downpipes:
- Meet emissions standards in most regions
- Provide noticeable horsepower and torque gains
- Offer a refined yet aggressive exhaust tone
- Less chance of triggering a check engine light
Catted downpipes are perfect for drivers who want power without compromising everyday usability. They strike a middle ground between performance and practicality.
Catless Downpipes
Catless downpipes remove catalytic converters entirely, creating a straight path for exhaust gases. This drastically reduces back pressure and maximizes turbo efficiency. The result is significant horsepower gains, louder sound, and a rawer driving experience.
Advantages of Catless Downpipes:
- Maximum power gains and turbo spool efficiency
- Louder, more aggressive exhaust note
- Ideal for track use and performance-focused builds
- Lower exhaust gas temperatures
However, catless downpipes come with trade-offs. They are generally not emissions compliant, can trigger check engine lights, and produce a stronger exhaust smell due to unfiltered gases.
Performance Gains
Both catted and catless options deliver performance improvements, especially when paired with ECU tuning. On the RS6 C8, owners typically see gains of 40–70 horsepower from catted downpipes and 60–100 horsepower with catless setups and proper tuning. Turbo lag decreases, throttle response sharpens, and acceleration feels more aggressive.
Sound Differences
The RS6 C8 already has a menacing exhaust note, but downpipes transform it.
- Catted downpipes produce a deep, refined growl with added volume. The tone is sporty but still civil for daily driving.
- Catless downpipes amplify everything—cold starts are louder, turbo spool is more pronounced, and acceleration delivers an unfiltered roar that’s unmistakably aggressive.
Choosing between the two comes down to how much volume and rawness you’re comfortable with.
Installation Considerations
Downpipe installation on the RS6 C8 is complex and often best left to professionals. It involves removing underbody panels, disconnecting oxygen sensors, and unbolting the factory downpipes from the turbos. Proper fitment and sensor alignment are crucial to avoid issues like exhaust leaks or check engine lights.
Most enthusiasts pair the installation with ECU tuning to optimize performance and ensure smooth operation.
Which Should You Choose?
- Catted downpipes: Ideal for daily drivers who want performance gains without sacrificing comfort or legality.
- Catless downpipes: Perfect for track enthusiasts and those chasing maximum horsepower, sound, and raw performance.
Your choice ultimately depends on your goals, driving environment, and tolerance for volume and emissions considerations.
Final Thoughts
The Audi RS6 C8 is already a high-performance machine, but upgrading the downpipes takes it to an entirely new level. Whether you choose catted or catless, the result is a more responsive, powerful, and thrilling drive. Pair the upgrade with proper tuning, and your RS6 transforms into a supercar-level performer with an exhaust note to match.
If you’re looking to elevate your driving experience, downpipes are a modification that delivers both excitement and measurable results.