Why get different cold air intake system?

[cb7sk8rdude]

I was thinking about this earlier and have looked up a little about it. I am thinking of getting a new cold air intake system. I was also thinking I don't really need a new one. I know they look cool, but what are the other benefits of owning one?

[GeoffM]

Gives you an instant rice burner look and you can brag about imaginary horsepower.
In reality you MIGHT get a few in the higher rev range, but that's it.

[pike0825]

simple. all u need is the intake pipe and a quality air filter. if u already have that keep it and dont get another one.

[visualpoet]

Gives you an instant rice burner look and you can brag about imaginary horsepower.
In reality you MIGHT get a few in the higher rev range, but that's it.

They're definitely more beneficial as your build progresses. Slapping one on a stock car is going to give less of an increase than putting one on a car with a full exhaust, for example.

Remember, the engine is basically a big air pump; the more air you can get in and out of the motor faster means more power.

[deevergote]

A short ram intake is a much better idea. I have a cold air intake myself... it was one of my very first mods. Given the chance to go back and do it again, I'd go with a short ram instead. The difference in power is negligible. The ease of installation (and moving it every time you work under the hood) is considerably greater with the short ram.

[GhostAccord]

^^x2 the Short Ram also has a slightly better throttle response than the CAI. Other reasons would be that it looks better, Some may call it rice, not sure why? It also makes more room and it is much easier to work on things under the hood. The sound is also quite addictive, however if you like the sound and keep your foot on the gas all the time, like I did, it won't be very fuel economical.

Other than that it will move your power band up slightly......probably not enough for the butt dyno to feel. The brain/audio dyno might think so though! If you already have one on your car don't bother buying a new one. If you still have the stock intake, it's not a bad bang for your buck mod. No it doesn't add 10-20hp but they are nice to have over the stock POS looking rubber tube. Stay away from the $200 ones, unless you live in Cali (sucks to need CARB/SCAM parts). Should only cost $20 for the pipe and maybe $25-$40 for a good quality filter.