Mazda Repair: cold air intake, cold air intake, muffler system

Question
how much of a difference if any would a cai make on a 2007 miata or just a k&n air filter. you read all these posts of people saying wow what a difference; i cant believe all the power; and of course the 3-5 mpg increase. are all these people experiencing the placebo effect or does this stuff work? do you have any hardcore #s on this subject. you would think that the factory would have put these air filters in and charged $20-30$ dollars more for the car if it worked that good.

Answer
Fairly substantial result.  It delivers ram air at speeds over 40MPH, that is to say the intake begins to pressurize due to forced air from the inlet which allows the engine more free available air to ingest resulting in less labor and resulting in better power, throttle response, free rev and fuel efficiency.  The addition of a free flowing muffler system is recommended to obtain the best possible flow.   We sell/install the Racing Beat systems, Intake system with K&N $325, 304 Stainless Intercooled dual tip muffler $380.  The front bumper must be removed during the installation of the intake system, adds time but not all that complex.

To answer the "why didn't Mazda do it" question.  Mazda must maintain a balance of reliability and efficiency standards that conform within the limits of the EPA requirements for emissions.  They must also market to the masses to make the cars profitable.  So in short, the exhaust systems are designed with diffusion and catalyst chambers which allow more process time making the converter more efficient.  As for the intake, air baffles, air boxes and strategic placement of inlet piping makes for a quieter intake and one that is protected within the body structure from debris and moisture.  Though great for "everyone" in general the design creates a measure of resistance.  The after market has created a design to eliminate these restrictions.  The end result is a throatier sound better throttle response more power at speed.  The only real negative is, don't drive through standing flood water because the design is not as forgiving as the OEM one, your motor will act like a "Shop Vac" and ingest water if it is presented to the inlet, which for this design ends up being inside the mouth.

It's a Miata not a U-Boat after all.  Here in New Orleans, I explain that at least once a year to some poor unfortunate soul at least once in a year.

service@miatashop.com