Corvette Cold Air Intakes

Perhaps the most frequent question we get asked is what parts should I add to my Corvette to get better performance.  Selecting the right Corvette Performance Parts for your application can be a tricky subject, but there are some basics that every owner looking to modify their Corvette should consider first. 

While there are endless options for increasing your Corvettes Performance, you should take a measured approach in planning out your build.  It makes no sense to just start piling on parts and accessories without first thinking through what your goals and objectives are.  Not all performance parts are compatible and/or are complementary of each other. Having to remove a part that you just bought and replacing it with the correct part is both expensive and a waste of time.

Custom Corvette Accessories recommends starting out with a Corvette Cold Air Intake System.  This simple modification is right for just about any Corvette, but more importantly it provides a universal base to begin your build.  In basic terms, adding an Intake System will allow your Corvette to breathe easier, reducing the amount of effort and time it takes to get more air into your manifold. Best of all, this modification can be done at home with basic hand tools and requires virtually no mechanical experience on your part.

There are two basic types of Corvette Intake Systems, so let’s take a look:

The first kind of Intake System to consider is often called a CAI (Cold Air Intake).  This type of intake is generally a filter based intake system consisting of a giant high flow filter to increase the amount of air that your Corvette can take in.  There are subtle differences in the type of filter material used by each, but in general terms, all of them will provide more air than is needed for most applications.  Some Corvette CAI’s utilize the existing OEM air bridge, while some supply a new air bridge designed to hold more air volume.  The main benefit to this type of Corvette Intake is that you get improved throttle response (referred to as “Tip-In”) and significantly better air flow, especially at higher RPM’s when your car is starving for air. CCA carries all the major Corvette Cold Air Intake System Manufactures and features brands such as aFe Power, Airaid, K&N Intakes, LG Motorsports, West Coast Corvette and Halltech.

The second type of intake to consider for your Corvette is a RAM Air System. This type of intake system takes air from outside your Corvette and funnels it up and into your manifold.  Air from outside the car is generally cooler and denser, providing more horsepower.  The main benefit to this type of Corvette Cold Air Intake is that you get more mid range and high end power (referred to as “Roll-on”). While these intakes are generally more restrictive at idle and low RPM’s, they provide a rush of pressurized air when the vehicle is moving, which allows the car to produce more power in the mid to high end of the power band.  Generally this type of Corvette Intakeis a little harder to install, but anyone with basic hand tools and a modest mechanical knowledge will find this an easy install. CCA carries the Industry leading Vararam and Volant Intakes Systems.

To sum it all up, if you are looking for improved throttle response and off the line performance, than a traditional CAI is for you.  If you are looking for mid range horsepower and torque than you should consider a RAM Air unit.  As always, feel free to call the experts at CCA to consult on your build.