I have been wondering: what is the best cold air intake? I've heard K&N, Alta, JCW intake, Ultrik, Pilo, Helix (the list goes on)... but which provides the most hp gain and/or positive sound change?

 

Its amazing what the search feature will do for you. I would recommend the ALTA CAI if you like noise.

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Welcome to NAM.

 

There are nearly countless threads on this very topic.

But here's my two cents: if you cannot get enough of that supercharger whine while you're driving, then the ALTA is probably your best choice. It is also a pretty easy install for the DIY'er.

If you want the meanest, loudest-sounding whine from the point of view of people on the street, then the m7 Air Gain System is great. This might be the highest horsepower CAI out there, and is arguably the most trick CAI out there. It is also by far the hardest to install, and most expensive one out there too.

For the money and overall sound, I love the ALTA, and many will concur...

 

Most sound / HP gain - Alta, or AGS as stated.

Best? Well, I just bought/installed a Dinan... I guess I just didn't want the "best"...

 

Also if your going with certain CAI system check out the whistle that goes with some of them.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ht=cai+whistle

 

i have an alta now, and a K&N typhoon on my o2. The alta is loud when you are pushing the car, but i love it.

 

Dinan with the black Alta intake tube is the way to go.

IMHO

 

Mr. Pepr - do you have whistle with this combo? Cause I do - though I still love it... I hypothesize that ANY rig with the Alta hose is likely to have more whistle - cause the stock hose seems to baffle some noise from the TB... but you can still have whistle without the Alta hose...

 

The replacement paper filter for the JCW intake costs about $100. You might want to factor that into your decision. I have the JCW intake only because it comes with the JCW engine kit. No way I'd sign up for such high maintenance costs as a stand-alone item.

Rawhyde

PS Other than filter costs, the JCW is just fine. Nice a quiet when driving around, but really lets the supercharger whine when it hits 4500 rpm. There ARE some reusable filter elements available in the aftermarket for the JCW intake, but again, the cost is close to $100

 

I have the DDM cold air intake. No whistling, just amplifies the supercharger whine under heavy throttle. Uses a foam air cleaner, all stainless steel construction and required no cutting. Drops in easily and if you've ever seen one in person you'll appreciate the quality.

 

The best CAI is the one that provides the best compromise between air flow and filtration. Research the filters these intakes use before you make your decision.

 

Running a MINI-Madness CAI and love it.

 

I have had.....Dinan, Alta and now the DDM.....

I like the Dinan and the DDM...... the Alta was too loud for me and it drowned out the exhaust which I like to hear....

as far as power there seems to be not enough difference to overcome the +/- factor of most dynos.....

I like the blend of sound frm the DDM and I like the construction and look

I think the AGS has been discontinued....

 

Running a JCW CAI. Well engineered. Have researched air filter replacements and have found filters ranging in price from $24.99 for a K&N to $54.00 for an Amsoil- $80.00 for the ITG-$80.00 for the Mini-Madness to $90.00 for the OEM. So I didn't feel that it was not cost prohibitive to operate the JCW.

 

No, I would say we do not have a whistle. If there is a whistle it is not noticable to us.

 

I have the ALTA CAI and can not complain. It sounds great! and the installation was relatively easy (I did it myself). In terms of wich one is the best. That is up to your standards. Wichever you finally buy for your MINI, will be the BEST!

 

DDM/Rspeed CAI here, some whistle, stock sound at partial throttle, supercharger galore at W.O.T.!!!!! The cleanest look that I've seen, easy to install, no strut brace issues at all. Priced well also.
Just my 2pennies