I asked the same questions before installing the PSE.

1) It's not $5000. I had PSE installed w/ labor for $2500.

2) If you install an after-market exhaust you risk voiding your warranty on a brand new $100,000 Porsche. Would an after-market exhaust cause any problems - most likely not but you can bet if a problem arises they will blaim the non approved after-market exhaust.

3) The hp claims that after-market exhaust companies make are generally bs. Look at the amount of modified parts in the X51 package for 26 hp.

4)The sound. After-market exhausts sound aweful when compared to the PSE.

5) The PSE chrome tips are better looking imo then any after-market exhaust.

6) Residual value. The PSE is something you will get some money back for in the end. With an after-market exhaust not only will you lose the money you spent , sometimes it will actually diminsh the cars value.

7)With PSE you have the option of turning it on or off with the Sport button. For me this is a huge plus. I've recently re-connected the hose so that I can put PSE on when I want to but can also leave it off like I did on the way in to work this morning because I took a co-worker in that needed a ride and wanted the car quiet so we could discuss buisness.