Flowmaster sidepipe 13530320 Question

[cycleguy55]

Originally Posted by Cobra #3170

The more power you make the more you lose both from a % standpoint and an exhaust volume standpoint. If you are making 400 to 500 they might help a bit depending on cam timing. Over 700 I guarantee a loss just because of the restriction vs a 2 1/2" straight through design.

Flowmaster Slimline mufflers are 3.5" ID, and FM claims the combined surface area of the holes in the cones is greater than the cross-sectional area of the ID. I realize there's some restriction in forcing the exhaust through a bunch of little holes, but I fail to understand how they still won't flow at least as much as a 2.5" ID pipe with louvers or holes - especially when the cross-sectional area of a 3.5" circle is nearly double that of a 2.5" circle.

Please explain.