Miata Mailing List: August 1993, Message #140
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   From: Mike Rother 
Subject: Aire Intake Changes
   Date: Thu, 19 Aug 1993 11:48:27 -0400



Why does the Miata have an intake snorkel?  Current Miata Magazine says
the long, somewhat restrictive snorkel provides broader powerband (more
power @ low revs) and helps meet noise regulations.  They acknowledge
the problem of drawing in hot underhood air, but feel Mazda did well
given the space they had to work with.

Millen's cone-filter eliminates the airbox & snorkel.  The setup
includes a heat shield to deflect exhaust-manifold heat.  Miata
Magazine wrote that the Millen system slightly affected mid-range
power.  They measured surface temperature of the air filter in use at
160 deg F.  Price:  Under $200.

HKS offers their Power-Flow intake.  HKS's reshaped air tube results in
no change to the powerband (Miata Magazine).  The air filter is placed
above the exhaust manifold.  No heat shield.  Price:  Under $200.

Jackson Racing has the Cold Air Induction kit.  Intake tract is
shortened a lot.  Air is drawn from the front of the car.  System
hasn't been dyno tested.  Price:  $400.

Yesterday I finally just removed the long intake snorkel to see
what would happen.  Results?  Engine & exhaust sounds are slightly
louder & deeper - even more like a sports car.  Low/mid-range power?
No decrease apparent.  If anything, the engine seems to jump to 3500
rpm & above more quickly & easily.

Perhaps I will simply drill a hole in the front end of the airbox,
block off the original hole, run a short length of 2" i.d. tube to the
front of the car, and use a K&N filter in the airbox.  Has anyone done
anything like this?