Vararam?
WOT?
Pro
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 716
Likes: 0
From: Long Island City NY
I considered it and went with the MTI Ram Air intake and here's why. What they might not tell you is that the install process is a bioch. If you're going to do it yourself and you have the skill, I advise it. I wanted someone to install it for me and got quoted from $450 to $650 to do the install. Where as the MTI install just costed me $80 too install. I really felt the gain of the MTI intake from a 60 mph punch. However, if cost was not a factor, I would have done the Vararam, but since you're asking about cost for benefit, I had to add that point.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 7,727
Likes: 7
From: Twilight zone
St. Jude Donor '05-'06
I also installed my own vararam almost 2 years ago,imho,It was reasonably easy.....I certainly will never replace this as I am very happy with results.I strongly recommend this mod! It was the best bang for the buck I believe I have done to my car. As far as 30 hp....I don't really know about actual stats,but I have yet to hear a vararam owner that has been dissapointed with results...I mean enough to replace it anyways....some have mentioned poor build quality,I didnt experiece that too much( i have an early one that doesn't have the quick release levers for the filter, and it's still worth it!).
The worst problem I had w/ build quality is that you have to use washers with the screws to keep the screws from protruding through the front facia, or cut them to fit properly. but that is a one time problem!
I have also heard complaints of the air bridge being held up too high off the radiator and it comes in contact with the hood. I had purchased a carbon fiber aftermarket airbridge at install time and I DID notice It was sticking up a bit, so I took a cutoff wheel and shortened the airbridge flange maybe 3/8"...problem solved! It sits just as tight as original! There may be an issue there if you reuse the stock airbridge,In all honesty, I didnt even try my stocker, so those claims may be valid..I just dont know..
I'm not looking to pick a fight with anyone here... I just really like this mod.... and I'm sure you will as well
good luck with your choice
The worst problem I had w/ build quality is that you have to use washers with the screws to keep the screws from protruding through the front facia, or cut them to fit properly. but that is a one time problem!
I have also heard complaints of the air bridge being held up too high off the radiator and it comes in contact with the hood. I had purchased a carbon fiber aftermarket airbridge at install time and I DID notice It was sticking up a bit, so I took a cutoff wheel and shortened the airbridge flange maybe 3/8"...problem solved! It sits just as tight as original! There may be an issue there if you reuse the stock airbridge,In all honesty, I didnt even try my stocker, so those claims may be valid..I just dont know..
I'm not looking to pick a fight with anyone here... I just really like this mod.... and I'm sure you will as well
good luck with your choice
