I guess this is the correct forum to post my questions about modding my 2005 Cooper for STF autocross. I have been considering adding a CAI and wondered if any one here has any first hand knowledge about the WMW version. Also wondered how it compares to the aFe CAI also carried by Way. The picture on the WMW website doesn't really show the parts involved. Also the dyno results showing a comparison to something (I assume to be a stock filter) makes me wonder how it compares to the drop in K&N that I already have. Is the ~$200 investment worth it? Would appreciate your comments.
I'm a fan of the Craven Speed CAI. Well build and solid. Easy to clean. Yep, correct forum too. Thanks. We'd of moved the thread and informed you if need be though.
Does Craven sell a CAI for the Cooper? I don't see one. (impulse has an '05 R50) I like my AFE (have an '02 R50). Fits well, easily installed and sounds great but I can't say anything about actual performance effects. I suspect it represents little improvement in that regard. On the other hand, I haven't bought a new air filter in years. But that aspect won't be an improvement over your drop-in since, I assume, that K&N filter can be cleaned and reused. If you buy something, make sure you check carefully that it will fit your MINI's model year. The first generation Cooper (R50) was produced through '06 but I'm pretty sure the first gen air box changed shape along with the other changes that came with the '04 "face lift" so aftermarket replacements might also have had to change. Point is, "fits R50" doesn't necessarily work for every part.
I cut the bottom out of my stock airbox. I used my dremel and cut around the structural ribs. It sounds better and didn't cost me $200.
I was too when I mentioned the Crave Speed one. However, an R50 JCW tuning kit, now that would be like finding hen's teeth in a Unicorn's poop.
Most aftermarket "cold" air intakes are just open element filters that breathe ambient air from the engine bay. Without a tune and probably other changes, the only benefit one will see from an aftermarket intake on a naturally aspirated R50 will be a little more sound.
Real cold air intakes for a MINI are sealed box in the engine compartment and ONLY pull air from the cowl vent on the driver side. All the other ones are just noisemakers.
That's not exactly the Justa configuration. The idea is right but the location of air source is different.
That is precisely the reason for my suggestion. Couldn't have said it better myself. But there is the placebo effect....
I did the DDM on my R50 along with some chip tuning and below 4 grand there is not much more than a throaty sound. However, above 4 grand the motor seems to come alive. Pretty narrow power band 4-6k within which to "come alive" but I would do it again. The DDM does seal the box and the cool air from behind the grill is routed into the box. Not a bad setup. Al