aFe Power Twisted Steel 1-7/8" Stainless Steel Headers – C8 Corvette Stingray (2020–2026)
Performance Gains: Up to +24 HP and +17 lb-ft of Torque
Unleash more performance from your C8 Corvette Stingray's 6.2L LT2 V8 with the aFe Power Twisted Steel 304 Stainless Steel Headers. Engineered to improve exhaust flow, reduce factory restrictions, and maximize engine efficiency, these performance headers deliver increased horsepower, torque, and a more aggressive exhaust character.
Featuring an advanced Tri-Y header design, mandrel-bent stainless steel tubing, and optimized primary tube lengths, the aFe Twisted Steel Headers are designed to improve exhaust scavenging while retaining compatibility with the factory catalytic converters and oxygen sensors.
Key Features
Up to +24 Horsepower and +17 lb-ft of Torque
1-7/8" Twisted Steel Tri-Y Header Design
Premium 304 Stainless Steel Construction
Mandrel-bent 1-7/8", 2-1/8", and 2-3/4" tubing
Optimized tube lengths for improved exhaust scavenging
Specifically paired opposite-firing cylinders for improved exhaust flow
TIG-Welded Inlet Ports
Laser-cut 304 stainless steel mounting flanges
Designed to reduce exhaust restrictions
Compatible with OEM Catalytic Converters
Retains factory oxygen sensors
Auxiliary O2 bung and plug included
Factory gaskets and manifold bolts included
Direct bolt-on installation
Available in multiple finish options
Proven Performance Gains
The aFe Twisted Steel Headers are engineered to maximize the performance potential of the C8 Corvette Stingray's naturally aspirated LT2 engine.
By improving exhaust flow and cylinder scavenging, these headers help the engine expel exhaust gases more efficiently.
Manufacturer-Reported Performance Gains:
Horsepower: Up to +24 HP
Torque: Up to +17 lb-ft
Actual performance gains may vary depending on vehicle configuration, supporting modifications, and testing conditions.
Advanced Tri-Y Header Design
Unlike conventional exhaust manifold designs, the aFe Twisted Steel Headers utilize a Tri-Y configuration with carefully optimized tube lengths.
The design pairs opposite-firing cylinders to improve exhaust pulse management and cylinder scavenging.
This helps reduce exhaust interference and promotes more efficient exhaust flow throughout the engine's operating range.
The system utilizes multiple tubing diameters:
1-7/8" Primary Tubing
2-1/8" Secondary Tubing
2-3/4" Collector Tubing
Each section is engineered to support efficient exhaust gas movement while maintaining strong performance characteristics.
Premium 304 Stainless Steel Construction
Manufactured from mandrel-bent 304 stainless steel, these headers are built for durability, strength, and corrosion resistance.
Additional construction features include:
TIG-welded inlet ports to improve exhaust flow and minimize flange distortion
Laser-cut stainless steel flanges for precise mounting
Smooth mandrel bends to maintain consistent internal tubing diameter
Durable construction designed for demanding performance applications
OEM Catalytic Converter Compatibility
The aFe Twisted Steel Headers are designed to work with the factory C8 Corvette Stingray catalytic converters, eliminating the need to replace the OEM catalytic converter assemblies solely to install the headers.
The system also retains compatibility with the factory oxygen sensors.
An additional O2 sensor bung and plug are included for owners who want to install a wideband oxygen sensor or other monitoring equipment.
Available Finishes
Choose the finish that best suits your build:
Raw Stainless Steel
Brushed Stainless Steel
Titanium Ceramic Coated
Finish availability may vary.
Installation
The aFe Twisted Steel Headers are designed as a bolt-on replacement for the factory exhaust manifolds.
The kit includes the necessary manifold bolts and factory-style gaskets for installation.
Estimated Installation Time: 5 Hours
Installation Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Professional installation is recommended due to the limited engine-bay access and exhaust system complexity of the mid-engine C8 Corvette.
Why You Need This
The factory C8 Corvette Stingray delivers impressive performance, but upgrading the restrictive OEM exhaust manifolds is an excellent way to unlock additional potential from the LT2 V8.
The aFe Power Twisted Steel Headers combine a performance-focused Tri-Y design with premium stainless steel construction to deliver up to 24 additional horsepower and 17 lb-ft of torque.
Unlike header systems that require aftermarket catalytic converters, these retain compatibility with the factory catalytic converters and oxygen sensors, making them a practical performance upgrade for owners looking to improve exhaust flow without replacing the entire exhaust system.
Whether you're building a street-focused Stingray or a more aggressive performance setup, these headers provide a strong foundation for additional exhaust upgrades.
Vehicle Fitment
2020–2026 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray
C8 Stingray 6.2L LT2 V8
Coupe
HTC / Hardtop Convertible
Base and Z51 Models
Note: Designed specifically for the C8 Stingray. Compatibility with C8 Z06, E-Ray, ZR1, ZR1X, and Grand Sport models is not confirmed.
What's Included
aFe Power Twisted Steel Stainless Steel Header Assembly
Manifold Mounting Bolts
Factory-Style Exhaust Gaskets
Auxiliary O2 Sensor Bung and Plug
Installation Instructions
Warranty
Covered by the applicable aFe Power Manufacturer Warranty, subject to manufacturer terms and conditions.