libmatt.com A short ram intake improves engine responsiveness and horsepower by drawing air directly into the engine through a shorter intake path, but it may increase heat absorption from the engine bay. Your choice between a short ram intake and a cold air intake depends on whether you prioritize quicker throttle response or cooler, denser air for better performance gains.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Short Ram Intake | Cold Air Intake |
|---|---|---|
| Air Source | Engine bay air (warmer) | Outside cooler air |
| Performance Impact | Moderate horsepower gain | Higher horsepower and torque boost |
| Installation | Simple, compact design | More complex, requires routing |
| Cost | Lower price range | Higher price range |
| Heat Soak Risk | Higher due to engine bay heat | Lower, improved engine efficiency |
| Sound | Louder intake roar | Subtle or moderate intake sound |
| Maintenance | Easy, accessible filter | Moderate, filter sometimes harder to reach |
Introduction to Air Intakes
Short ram intakes draw warm air from the engine bay, increasing airflow but potentially ingesting higher-temperature air that can reduce performance. Cold air intakes position the intake outside the engine bay, sourcing cooler, denser air that enhances combustion efficiency and power output. Choosing between these systems depends on vehicle setup, engine tuning, and driving conditions to optimize intake air temperature and volume for improved performance.
What Is a Short Ram Intake?
A short ram intake is a type of aftermarket air intake system designed to improve engine performance by shortening the path air travels into the engine, typically using a short, straight pipe with a high-flow air filter. It is installed in the engine bay, drawing warmer air from inside the engine compartment, which can provide quicker throttle response and increased airflow compared to the stock intake. While it offers easier installation and potential horsepower gains, the intake may ingest warmer air, which can slightly affect overall power output compared to cold air intakes that source cooler air from outside the engine bay.
What Is a Cold Air Intake?
A cold air intake is an aftermarket engine component designed to draw cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay, improving combustion efficiency and horsepower. It typically features a longer intake tube and a high-flow filter positioned away from the heat of the engine, often near the front of the vehicle. By reducing the air temperature entering the engine, cold air intakes help increase oxygen content, resulting in enhanced performance and fuel economy compared to stock or short ram intake systems.
Performance Comparison: Short Ram vs Cold Air
Short ram intakes deliver quicker throttle response and improved low-end torque due to their shorter, less restrictive design, making them ideal for urban and spirited driving. Cold air intakes provide denser, cooler air from outside the engine bay, resulting in higher peak horsepower and improved fuel efficiency during sustained high-speed performance. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize immediate throttle feel or maximum power gains from cooler air temperatures.
Power Gains and Engine Response
Short ram intakes typically provide quicker throttle response and improved low to mid-range power by reducing intake air restrictions and shortening airflow paths. Cold air intakes often yield higher peak horsepower due to their ability to draw denser, cooler air from outside the engine bay, enhancing combustion efficiency. Both systems offer distinct performance benefits, with short ram intakes favoring acceleration and cold air intakes emphasizing top-end power gains.
Installation Complexity and Fitment
Short ram intakes typically offer easier installation and more straightforward fitment due to their compact design, fitting directly into the engine bay without requiring major modifications. Cold air intakes often involve more complex installation processes, as they require routing the intake tubing to a location outside the engine bay to access cooler air, which can sometimes necessitate trimming or relocating components. Your choice may depend on the specific vehicle model and how much effort you're willing to invest in the installation process for optimal performance gains.
Cost Analysis and Budget Considerations
Short ram intakes typically cost between $100 and $300, making them a more budget-friendly option for performance upgrades. Cold air intakes generally range from $200 to $500, reflecting their complex design and potential for greater performance gains. Choosing between the two depends on balancing upfront costs with expected benefits in power, efficiency, and sound.
Maintenance and Longevity
Short ram intakes generally require more frequent maintenance as they are exposed to warmer engine bay air and contaminants, which can reduce filter lifespan. Cold air intakes, positioned away from the engine, draw cooler and cleaner air, resulting in longer filter life and less frequent cleaning or replacement. To ensure your intake system's longevity, regularly inspect and maintain the air filter regardless of the type chosen.
Pros and Cons of Each Intake Type
Short ram intakes improve throttle response and engine sound by drawing air from the engine bay but may ingest warmer air, potentially reducing power in hot conditions. Cold air intakes pull cooler air from outside the engine compartment, enhancing combustion efficiency and horsepower, though they can be more complex to install and may risk water ingestion. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize easier installation and throttle feel or maximum performance gains in cooler air temperatures.
Which Intake Is Best for Your Vehicle?
Short ram intakes deliver warmer air from the engine bay, which can boost throttle response and low-end torque, making them ideal for street driving and daily use. Cold air intakes draw cooler air from outside the engine bay, enhancing horsepower and efficiency during high-performance applications or racing conditions. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize immediate engine responsiveness or maximum power gains under demanding driving scenarios.
short ram intake vs cold air intake Infographic
