This has nothing to do with how strong the material is. The intercooler could be a two in thick plate of steel and still would get pushed into the engine that would get pushed into the bay, if it wasn't attached to the frame.
The crash bar designed and bolted to the frame. On impact that bar takes the energy and puts it to the frame of the car therefore consuming the energy around the driver. The frame is a thousand times stronger than any intercooler. The car frame is rigid and you keep your legs.
Not saying the IC wont help, but it will be of minimal help to your body at high speeds.
Ok..lets get back to turbos!!
