I saw a conversation going on on another board about this.

Basically, does running a setup where the filter is being hit by direct air help vs a standard cold air intake?

This would be hard to dyno test, however with a manifold pressure sensor I think it would be possible.
If, with a regular cold air setup, at WOT the manifold pressure is -50 mmHg...then if a ram-air setup is used..the pressure reads
-20 mmHg (or how about + 05 mmHg...haha yea right...boost from an intake ) then the ram-air would actually be helping.

Thoughts? Comments? Experiances?


[Modified by HX_Guy, 11:20 AM 7/6/2001]

 

Theoretically, having a filter element open to the atmosphere will probably yield a performance increase. But how will you pull that off? Drive with the hood off?

As long as it gets direct stream of cold air it's always going to be a little bit better than a system that draws air from underneath and behind a bumper. Remember cold air equals denser air equals need more fuel.

 

I was refering to something like a front mount intake system (which I know looks dumb...but if it works?)

Or possibely removing the headlight (for the track only of course)

 

well basically any setup where you have direct air running to the filter will be an improvement. A substantial improvement? I doubt it, but every little bit helps when your on the track. I've seen alot of track guys remove their corner lights and even headlight assemblies for racing usage.

But I question the practicality of the front mount intake system on the street. my 0.02

 

I remove my corner light at the track...but sometimes i question if the air getting in there is worth the sacrifise in aerodynamics....I've tried both ways...its hard to tell a difference because I haven't gotten super consistent in this car yet.