The consensus is stock filter in stock airbox. Your exposed filter behind the radiator is a Hot Air Intake TM.

 

Yeah... about that... this engine is not in a s2000 anymore. I saved this engine from a wrecked s2000 on its way to a crusher and it now resides in a bmw 2002. now that that detail is out of the way, do you have any suggestions on filter that doesnt use stock airbox?

Thanks

 

Dry or oiled doesn't really matter, there is no MAF sensor on this engine that could be disturbed from excessive filter oil.
Just get a big one from a reputable brand.

 

I kinda gathered that from the username :P But was not certain.

As mentioned, oiled or dry, but get a good brand. I know someone who bought a cheap knockoff CAI for a car once, started having massive running issues and upon teardown found a piece of metal band from the filter in valvetrain!

 

Holy miss me with that fiasco batman! yeah, im going AEM or K&N. Just wanted to make sure there wasn't a rule on "dont go oiled/dry"