Guys,
I've been debating between installing an Injen CAI or go with new exhaust. Which one gives you more bang for the buck? I've read somewhere that the S has a restrictive air flow, but I've only seen that mentioned once so far. If I do go with either one, which manufacturers do you recommend? The exhaust I can have put on for free since I have a friend that works at CarX. With the CAI, do you recommend the long or short tube due to hydro lockups. Please help, thanks.

 

The car is definatly NOT restrictive.

Most of the exhaust systems seem to NOT increase HP, quite a few even reduce HP at the wheels. The real advantage would be weight savings, and if you consider it an advantage, a louder exhaust note.

For actual power, I would go for a CAI. If it's a daily driver I would be concerned about hydrolock. If it's a garage queen, then the longer tube should be fine, no puddle splashing though!

Good luck.

 

my first mod would be an x brace.... it make the chasis more rigid for better handling... as for motor wise it already has 240 hp at the crank...you be surprise how potent that engine is stock...

 

I had recently installed an AEM clone (4IGS2000's CAI) and on our recent drive, I was able to walk away (slowly) from everyone that I was near. I couldn't do this before the CAI was installed. Besides the sound is almost intoxicating. I did run into a problem with water soaking the filter, however. I fixed this by custom fitting a "shroud" around the filter. I made a cylinder that is open on both ends and extends several inches past the filter on both ends. This also had a welcome side effect; it reduced some of the sound from the intake, which was really loud.

I really like the CAI, but there is a problem with water.

 

My first mod would be a set of rear speakers and a stereo/head-unit upgrade...

 

Actually, Ulrich, that's a very good point, and this was my first upgrade! I went with Kenwood's in the rear from Lucid Automotive and the install (with one exception) was a breeze. If you do this and have the 6 disc changer, good luck! The wiring for the changer was WAY too short behind the head unit (leading to problems plugging/unplugging), and getting the damn thing in & out was very difficult. Other than that, I didn't have any problems. Don't expect a drastic difference in sound, but some toying with the balance and tone controls will give you a much fuller sound with the top up, and an adequate amount of sound on the highway with the top down.

[back on-topic] I'm suffering from the same quandry as haga - it seems that all of the performance upgrades are either reasonably priced yet not very effective (exhaust, CAI, etc...) or quite expensive with huge results (supercharger, etc...). I'm considering replacing my clutch pad/pressure plate/flywheel (?), but I've decided before I get the car to go faster I really need a V-1 so I don't get caught .

boiler - doesn't AEM make a device that prevents (or mitigates, at least) hydrolock in their CAI?

 

Yes they do, however that does not keep the water off of the air filter. I believe that if I can keep the air filter dry and not drive through standing water, I will not have a problem. BTW, my bypass valve is laying on my workbench. It doesn't solve my problem.

 

is there an aftermarket headrest-speaker unit available for the S2K?? I have these on my 97 Miata, and they work great!!

My mods list would be:
- an exhaust to sound cool(er)
- a driving school (HPDE) to help improve the loose nut behind the wheel
- other stuff once I learn to better drive the car...

 

FYI: I have finally purchased the Injen CAI from www.adventon.com for a great price of 215.17 + 20 shipping. Thanks for your guys advice.

 

1. An oil change
2. Exhaust
3. Supercharger