The aFe MACH Force-Xp 2-1/2" axle-back is built for the 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider 1.4L turbo four-cylinder. The manufacturer describes 2-1/2" mandrel-bent 304 stainless tubing, with every joint MIG-welded for strength. It removes the heavy factory muffler, and the manufacturer quotes 12 pounds for this system against 26 pounds for the stock unit. Owners on user forums say an axle-back adds little measurable power, so buy this for sound, weight savings, and corrosion resistance rather than a dyno gain. Owners on user forums also report that muffler-delete style setups can drone at highway speeds, and sound-deadening tiles in the trunk are a common fix. Search terms: 124 Spider 1.4T axle-back, 49-36901 muffler delete, 304 stainless mandrel bent exhaust.
The manufacturer's install sheet recommends professional installation, but the job is a bolt-on for a home mechanic with proper support equipment. The sheet calls for letting the exhaust cool, supporting the stock system, unbolting the factory muffler at its first flange, freeing it from the rubber isolation mounts, and then fitting the new pipe with the supplied bolts and nuts. Tip options are offered separately from the base kit, so confirm the tip configuration before ordering.
The manufacturer lists this system for the 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider with the 1.4L turbo engine. Confirm your model year and engine code with the manufacturer before ordering.
Tip configuration varies by part version. The manufacturer offers optional tips in gloss black, polished, carbon fiber, and blue flame finishes, and some versions include a 4" carbon fiber tip. Confirm which version you are buying.
Owners on user forums report mixed results. Muffler-delete setups are often described as droning at certain RPMs, and several owners say trunk sound-deadening tiles reduced the drone.
Per the manufacturer's install sheet, the manufacturer recommends professional installation, so DIY installers should be comfortable working under the car with proper jack stands. Start by letting the exhaust cool and properly supporting the stock system. Unbolt the factory muffler at the first flanged joint, free it from the rubber isolation mounts, then bolt the new axle-back pipe in place using the supplied hardware and slide it into the rubber isolator. Adjust the system before tightening everything fully. Owners on user forums report drone after muffler removal, so plan on sound-deadening tiles for the trunk if you notice it.
