LEFT: Thanks to the design with a removable tube, the Breathless step headers install with just three tubes intact, which allows clearance for an easier installation.

BELOW LEFT: With the headers bolted up, now only the final tube has to be slipped into place.

As usual, Breathless Performance has taken C5 performance another step forward. In Ernie Francis’ typical no-holds-barred fashion, Breathless refused to settle for the standard tubular headers, instead going with a race- and dyno-proven "step design," which has tubes that start with a 1 3/4-inch diameter before enlarging to 1 7/8-inch to produce increased exhaust gas velocity. As a result, the engine responds with increased horsepower and a higher and flatter torque curve throughout the rpm range. Additionally, instead of the normal 2 1/2-inch collectors,