Air Intakes Explained: Cold Air vs. Short Ram – Which Is Best for Your Car?
An engine is essentially an air pump—more air in, more power out. The air intake system is responsible for feeding oxygen to the combustion chamber, where it mixes with fuel to create energy. Stock intakes are designed with noise reduction, cost, and emissions compliance in mind, often at the expense of maximum airflow. This is where aftermarket air intakes, such as cold air and short ram systems, come into play.
What Is a Cold Air Intake?
A cold air intake relocates the air filter outside the engine bay, often lower in the fender or bumper area, where it can draw cooler, denser air. Because cooler air contains more oxygen molecules, combustion becomes more efficient, producing more horsepower and torque. Cold air intakes are especially effective in warmer climates where under-hood air temperatures are significantly higher than ambient air.
Advantages of Cold Air Intakes
Cold air intakes can deliver noticeable gains in performance, sometimes adding 5–20 horsepower depending on the vehicle. They also improve throttle response and can enhance fuel efficiency under light driving. However, they are more complex to install and may increase the risk of hydrolock if the filter is too low and exposed to water. Many systems include shields or bypass valves to minimize this risk.
What Is a Short Ram Intake?
A short ram intake keeps the filter inside the engine bay but replaces the factory airbox with a larger-diameter pipe and a performance filter. This design shortens the path air must travel, reducing restriction and improving throttle response. While short ram intakes are easier to install and often less expensive, they typically draw warmer air from the engine bay, which can offset performance gains compared to cold air systems.
Advantages of Short Ram Intakes
Short ram systems are popular because of their simplicity, affordability, and ease of maintenance. They deliver a noticeable increase in engine sound, creating a sportier experience. While horsepower gains are smaller than those from a cold air intake, the improved throttle response and induction noise are appealing for many enthusiasts.
Cold Air vs. Short Ram: Which Is Better?
The choice depends on the driver’s priorities. Cold air intakes generally provide better power gains by drawing in cooler, denser air, making them ideal for performance-focused builds. Short ram intakes, however, are easier to install, less prone to water exposure, and often cheaper, making them a great option for daily drivers or enthusiasts on a budget. In some cases, dyno tests show similar gains when the vehicle is moving at speed, as airflow helps cool intake temperatures even with a short ram.
Tuning Considerations
Installing either type of intake may alter the air-fuel ratio, especially on modern vehicles with sensitive sensors. For maximum performance and safety, pairing an intake upgrade with ECU tuning is recommended. Tuning ensures the engine adapts to increased airflow without running lean.
Complementary Upgrades
Air intakes work even better when paired with other modifications such as performance exhaust systems, throttle body upgrades, or turbochargers. Together, these upgrades maximize airflow and efficiency, unlocking more power than any single modification alone.
Conclusion
Both cold air and short ram intakes offer unique benefits. Cold air systems provide cooler, denser air for greater horsepower, while short ram systems deliver improved throttle response and affordability. The best choice depends on your driving style, budget, and goals. Contact KOW Performance today to find the right intake system for your vehicle and start unlocking its full potential.