Intakes... are they ALL just a scam?

Originally Posted by christian370z

Correct, which is why peak power should be considered. At this point in time, the cars reading the most power regardless of mods with a set of Stillen G3 intakes still nets the most power.

There is a law of diminishing returns as you stack up mods as the engine reaches peak volumetric efficiency. This is essentially because the engine has a set volume (displacement) and while it is impossible to achieve 100% VE due to turbulence/friction/leaks, you can get closer with breathing mods on the intake and exhaust sides. I'm not an expert on this at all, but one of the variables in getting better volumetric effeciency is not only total air flow volume, but also density.

Since the G3 intakes sit in the best location of all intakes, they can intake cooler air than the Injens or stock airbox just on the location alone. Cooler air is denser, therefore it will make slightly more power in all conditions on that quality alone. But it then comes down to a few wheel horsepower between intake setups and whether a person believes pursuing those couple horsepower is worth the extra cost of the G3s or Injens over the K&N drop ins/MAF tubes.


For me, the sound, looks and peak power/torque of the G3s made it worthwhile. However, I also picked them up from a forum member for a fair amount less than a brand new set. I still believe they are the best intakes out there at the moment in my opinion if cost is not an object.

Originally Posted by b1adesofcha0s

I have the 7AT so I don't think those mods can be applied to my Z :|

Originally Posted by shadoquad

Wait, they take in cooler air than the injens? I'm not sure I buy that. They're in a better position because they're not susceptible to hydro-lock, from what I understand.

Originally Posted by christian370z

I heard that lighter pullies have a similar effect on engine response and even open up a bit of power. Most comments I have seen said that while they are not going to be as big of a difference as the flywheel/clutch combo, they are somewhat close.



It is not just the temperature, but the filter location of the G3s also will net a much larger ram air effect once the car is at speed as they are placed directly behind the biggest opening on the entire front of the car. The Injens are still partially linked to the hot engine bay even thought they are way at the bottom while the G3's filter locations are completely separate.

There is probably not an appreciable difference in intakes temps between the G3 and Injen intakes, but the ram air effect of the G3's filter location will still give it the edge in my mind.