my mk2 2.0 bvh 8v had a new 2.25" milltek. it was so loud, it had to go. i mean it was embarrassingly loud. the only time i liked it was on overrun. poping and banging.
i then went to a 2" jetex system, and it sounds perfect. a subtle presence at idle, and like that all the way through the rev range. the induction of the airbox is more noticeable. and it made more power and torque on the same rr. just from the exhaust. made it so more drivable.
iv now got a 16v abf in there. and you know what? its quieter than the 8v was! thats without a cat too. its just how a milltek is im afraid. was the same on my zetec-s.
one persons loud is anothers quiet and vice versa.