CAI worthless?

[jdowen2]

I test drove an 01 EX Coupe (2.3) with CAI (don't know brand but had K&N cone filter) and Magnaflow catback exhaust. I thought it was slower than my stock 01. I had the owner put the stock intake back on and it ran better. I'm not sure why though. Does it need a chip or computer upgrade to take advantage of the better breathing?

[stevel]

in my opinion, cai's and aftermarket exhaust is only for show and sound, if you like the sound. the idea that it increases power in my opnion is silly. you just showed that in your post.

[BenjiBoy650]

CAI's actually produce less power below certain RPM's so that could be it.

[04blkpearlcoupe]

it was probably less powerful because of the upgraded exhaust, not the CAI. upgrading the exhaust causes a loss of low-end power due to less back pressure. the advantage is theoretically more top-end power.

[BenjiBoy650]

Originally posted by 04blkpearlcoupe
it was probably less powerful because of the upgraded exhaust, not the CAI. upgrading the exhaust causes a loss of low-end power due to less back pressure. the advantage is theoretically more top-end power.

Never knew that about exhausts but I'm positive the CAI will reduce power before 3000RPM, so both of them together would probably be bad.