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Well it's not totally untrue if one is talking about measurable dyno gains (though the good ones will show at least something on the dyno maybe) but out on the road or track yes that statement is absolutely untrue.
Actually there are many threads on CF that supply evidence in support of this statement. A catback without headers is pretty much for the sound, and if it doesn't show up on the dyno why would it show up on the track?
I was searching this site looking for something to perk up a C5 Z and I looked at dozens of threads before coming to the conclusion that a Vararam and a tune were the only safe bets and only a bit of anecdotal evidence was offered in support of any catbacks. I have had catbacks on LTx cars and only with headers was there a measurable difference.
I want to be convinced though. Which ones make the best power?
EDIT: Oops. I see you responded to my comments on the CAI rather than the catback. I agree that a CAI for a vehicle in motion would at least have the chance to be much more effective. People swear by their Vararam systems(when properly installed) but I have not heard the same support for K & N, Blackwing etc. Keep in mind I said most and not all CAI. I haven't seen anyone except Vararam and Vortex owners make the claims that the CAI alone was responsible for a drop in et.
Last edited by nuck; Jan 15, 2008 at 05:14 PM.
Reason: Didn't pay attention to post i was quoting
So a friend's brother has a C5 M6 with intake and exhaust, not sure which kind but I'm pretty sure it isn't tuned. My friend approached me the other day and was curious to see who's car would be quicker. I have a 06 C6 A6 bone stock (haven't really gotten around to do anything yet). So just based on the information, or the lack there of, who would take the win from a dead start? rolling start? etc. To be completely honest, I have no idea and we're both just curious. I'm not trying to antagonize anyone, we're just interested. And, of course, the real test would be on a closed course. Thanks for any help.
if he had Vraram intake and tuned i think he will pass u up to 90-100mph by about two cars and u will pull him after that ..thats was my race resoult with my friend stock c6 but really he was pulling me after the 90mph and for sure he could pass me if we didn't make our race 1/4 mile only..after the LG headers and new EFI tune i raced him again BUT NOW he couldn't catch me the race was from 30 roll up to about 140mph i did it many times with stock and catback/filter C6s BUT with headers/tuned C6s no way...Good luck and take my advice if u want to win((100+mph)) waiting for race race result drive carefuly
Thanks for all the replies guys. The weather hasn't been 100% cooperative yet so we're just waiting around for a good day. My original prediction was that he would take me off the line but after about 80mph I should pull past him. His car has an intake and I haven't gotten specifics yet but I'm pretty sure its not a Vararam. He has a catback only without exhaust. It should be pretty interesting. I will definitely try to mount my camera when the time comes. Thanks again.
I would amagine your A6 would win considering they run anywhere from a 12.6-12.8 on average. It could be close if he shifts perfectly. I would like to see it
Type of intake and exhaust matters. Most CAI asystems offer zero power increase, and the same for catbacks. If he has headers and a Vararam that is a different story but I assume a catback so he would have to be an excellent driver just to run under a 13.0. Your car should be quite a bit quicker as long as you don't pooch the launch
thats not true, intakes do help and do offer power increases. maybe not on the dyno, due to lack of air flowing in, but they do make a difference. especially once you start modding.