Are all intakes created equal?

[midtenn]

So I just got my TT and am in the middle of picking out the mods, so a lot of research is being done. This car is so different than the Mustang world I am coming from. Seems that if I want to do research on this car I need to be researching what works on the Golf R.

So my question is this. I will end up doing a ECU/TCU tune within the year, leaning Unitronic, but have not made up my mind yet. I also want to do an intake, I just love the turbo intake noises so why not. I keep seeing a couple of different designs though. Like the APR/Unitronic design has a small "scoop" that pulls air from the front, but a system like the Kohlefaser Luft-Technik has one that runs the entire length of the front grill. Does this really make a difference? I like to think that APR/Unitronic designed theirs that way for a reason so maybe it is just as good as the other system in terms of grabbing cooler air?

Also, if I was going with a Unitronic tune would you suggest a Unitronic intake, or does it really not matter that much?

Thanks in advance for the replies.

[Huey52]

No they're not. Engines are typically air-starved from the factory, in part to help meet ever stricter emissions/fuel economy requirements. There's significant science in providing increased, smooth airflow while still maintaining proper filtration. Look for a vendor that can demonstrate same.

I've been very pleased with the 034 Motorsport intake. They have both carbon fiber and OEM style plastic models, with the same conical filter. Both re-utilize the very good OEM lower box so an easy install as well.

https://store.034motorsport.com/x34-...-0t-gen-3.html

You'll see some 034 threads on this subject as well.

[midtenn]

No they're not. Engines are typically air-starved from the factory, in part to help meet ever stricter emissions/fuel economy requirements. There's significant science in providing increased, smooth airflow while still maintaining proper filtration. Look for a vendor that can demonstrate same.

I've been very pleased with the 034 Motorsport intake. They have both carbon fiber and OEM style plastic models, with the same conical filter. Both re-utilize the very good OEM lower box so an easy install as well.

https://store.034motorsport.com/x34-...-0t-gen-3.html

You'll see some 034 threads on this subject as well.

And I guess that is also part of the question. I have seen the 034 and don't have an issue with it, but is something like the APR/Uni better? I like how the 034 has a smooth, continuous run from the box to the turbo, but dislike how the APR uses the stock tube to go to the turbo, I just don't see how that is smoother and then to pay a huge amount more to replace that stock tubing. I'm gonna wait till more stuff goes on sale LOL

[BradB]

I am in the same boat as the OP. I really “want” to get an intake but I don’t really understand the differences between brands or even models within brands. As for 034, what’s the differences between the carbon and plastic options. Is there real-world noticible performace advantages felt by either? Besides the carbon construction, is the carbon version really better? The graphs and “on paper” data just confuse me. :) I’d like to know if the average joe can actually feel a difference in day to day driving. If there is only a couple horsepower gain at max rpm then I don’t know if it’s worth the high cost of admission. Thoughts? Experiences?

[Chuckster]

Carbon version uses a conical filter.
Plastic version uses a panel filter.

[Huey52]

Yes, thanks for clarifying.

Carbon version uses a conical filter.
Plastic version uses a panel filter.

[midtenn]

So is there an actual difference between the $500 APR and the $300 034?

My question is more based around the way they are designed with either taking up a small portion of the front grille or the entire thing.

At the end of the day I will probably end up with the Luft-technik since I just like the way it looks under the hood. The price seems to be in the same ballpark as the other CF intakes out there and I think I will get some nice turbo noise.

I think they might all be within a reasonable HP increase of each other so I am thinking it comes down to personal preference.


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[Lavoisier]

If you add 10 hp to a 400 hp car, I doubt the butt dyno will notice a thing. If the intake is for the sound or a prelude to a tune, that is another matter.

[Huey52]

I agree. Butt ... in my case going from the detuned Audi NA 292 Hp to closer to Euro 300+ was an incentive. That and the carbon fiber under hood appeal (I also have the 034 engine cover and circuit breaker box appliqués).

If you add 10 hp to a 400 hp car, I doubt the butt dyno will notice a thing. If the intake is for the sound or a prelude to a tune, that is another matter.

[Lavoisier]

Under hood appeal is great for shows and club meetings.

[Chuckster]

Honestly, if the plastic version had been out when I was shopping, I would have gotten that over the c/f one. I tend to keep my cars for a long time and feel the c/f could be prone to fading, cracks, etc....but we’ll see.

[Huey52]

As you kindly clarified me, the plastic 034 has a flat filter. Still better than the OEM (had a K&N flat before the 034) but not as good as the CF-conical configuration. It's all about surface area (well, that and materials).

I believe you'll be impressed with the longevity of carbon fiber.

Honestly, if the plastic version had been out when I was shopping, I would have gotten that over the c/f one. I tend to keep my cars for a long time and feel the c/f could be prone to fading, cracks, etc....but we’ll see.

[Chuckster]

As you kindly clarified me, the plastic 034 has a flat filter. Still better than the OEM (had a K&N flat before the 034) but not as good as the CF-conical configuration. It's all about surface area (well, that and materials).

I believe you'll be impressed with the longevity of carbon fiber.

My last c/f engine cover lasted about 5 years before showing wear, but I had that car for 8 years....different brand though, so I hope you’re right.

[tt-ho]

Chuckster, is your TTS tuned? Curious if intake is beneficial on a non-tuned car.

[Chuckster]

No, just the 034 intake and Magnaflow cat-back. It changes the sound on acceleration...hard to tell by the butt dyno though.