The V8's contribution: American V8s generally have a deep, throaty rumble, often described as muscular, powerful, and sometimes even aggressive. They tend to have a pronounced low-frequency resonance.
The Import Exhaust's contribution: Import-style exhausts, typically associated with Japanese cars (like Hondas, Subarus, etc.) often prioritize a high-pitched, raspy, or even whiny sound. They frequently incorporate features like multiple smaller diameter pipes, resonators tuned for higher frequencies, and straight-through designs that minimize muffling.
The Resulting Sound: The combination would likely sound like a deep V8 rumble trying to fight its way through a high-pitched, sometimes shrill, import-style exhaust note. Imagine:
* A low, guttural rumble punctuated by sharper, higher-frequency bursts. The V8's fundamental tone would still be present, but it would be overlaid with the faster, more aggressive sounds of the import exhaust.
* A potentially dissonant or uneven tone. The mismatch in frequency ranges might create an unpleasant sound to some, lacking the harmonic richness of a well-matched system.
* Increased volume, particularly at higher RPMs. The less restrictive exhaust would allow more sound to escape.
* Potentially a raspy or "tinny" quality. This depends on the materials used in the import exhaust.
Essentially, it wouldn't be the deep, satisfying growl of a classic American V8, nor the crisp, high-revving whine of a tuned import. It would be a unique, somewhat clashing mix of the two – something you'd likely hear and either love or hate intensely. The specific sound would vary dramatically depending on factors such as the type of V8 (small block Chevy vs. big block Ford), the specific import-style exhaust system's design, and even the tuning of the engine.