Is Short Ram Intake Better Than Stock? A Detailed Comparison

Is short ram intake better than stock? A short ram intake can improve airflow and throttle response, offering slight performance gains over a stock intake. However, it may lack the filtration and cooling efficiency of the stock system.

When it comes to modifying the car for improved performance, one of the first upgrades many car enthusiasts consider is the intake system. One popular option is the short ram intake, often seen as an improvement over the stock intake system. But is a short ram intake really better than the stock system? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of short ram intakes compared to stock intakes, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right upgrade for your vehicle.

What is a Short Ram Intake and How Does It Work?

A short ram intake (SRI) is an aftermarket air intake system designed to replace the vehicle’s stock air intake system. Unlike the stock intake, which is often designed with a longer route for air to travel through, a short ram intake uses a shorter, direct path to bring air into the engine. The shorter pipe allows for faster air intake, which is believed to help improve engine performance, particularly for cars with smaller engines or turbocharged setups.

How a Short Ram Intake Works

A short ram intake (SRI) is designed to replace the stock intake system with a shorter, direct path for air to flow into the engine. By reducing the length and complexity of the intake, it allows for faster airflow, potentially improving throttle response and performance.

• Improved Airflow: The short ram intake reduces the distance air has to travel before entering the engine, which theoretically increases the volume of air entering the combustion chamber at a faster rate.
• Cold Air Flow: While a cold air intake typically pulls air from outside the engine bay, the short ram intake draws air from within the engine compartment. This air can be warmer than the air outside, but in some situations, the faster airflow can still be beneficial.
• Sound: The short ram intake is often louder than the stock intake, producing a more aggressive engine sound, which many car enthusiasts find appealing.

Stock Intake System

The stock intake system is the original air intake system that comes with the car from the factory. It is designed for reliability, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with emissions standards, rather than for high-performance benefits. Stock intakes often have longer, more convoluted piping to reduce engine noise, maintain fuel efficiency, and ensure that the engine receives clean air, filtered effectively.

Key Features of a Stock Intake

The stock intake system is designed with reliability, efficiency, and compliance with environmental standards in mind. It typically features longer air ducts, noise-reducing components, and is tuned for optimal fuel economy rather than performance.

• Longer Piping: The stock intake is typically longer, with bends and turns designed to reduce noise and maintain optimal fuel economy.
• Higher Intake Temperature: Since the air is pulled from within the engine bay, it tends to be warmer, which may not be ideal for performance but ensures a more stable intake of air.
• More Restrictive Airflow: The design of the stock intake is usually more restrictive in comparison to aftermarket options like the short ram intake. This can limit the engine’s ability to breathe freely at higher RPMs, leading to potential power loss.

Short Ram Intake vs Stock: Which Is Better for Performance?

Now that we’ve established the basics of both intake systems, let’s dive deeper into the comparison to determine whether a short ram intake is better than stock for your vehicle.

1. Increased Horsepower and Throttle Response

One of the main reasons people upgrade to a short ram intake is to increase horsepower and improve throttle response. By shortening the path for air to travel and reducing the restrictions present in stock intakes, a short ram intake allows air to flow into the engine more quickly.

• Short Ram Intake: The faster airflow can result in quicker throttle response, especially in high RPMs, and may lead to a modest increase in horsepower, particularly in vehicles with naturally aspirated engines.
• Stock Intake: While the stock intake is designed to provide steady airflow for daily driving, it typically lacks the performance gains of a short ram intake. It is more restrictive, leading to slower throttle response and less potential for gains at higher RPMs.

2. Engine Sound

The sound produced by an intake system is a major factor for many enthusiasts. A short ram intake is often louder than a stock intake, producing a more aggressive and throaty engine sound. This is due to the shorter piping and less restrictive airflow.

• Short Ram Intake: Expect a noticeable increase in engine noise, especially under hard acceleration. Some people enjoy this “performance” sound, while others may find it too loud.
• Stock Intake: The stock intake is designed to keep engine noise at a minimal level, which is ideal for everyday driving and comfort but doesn’t add any excitement to the driving experience.

3. Temperature of the Air (Intake Temperature)

One of the main drawbacks of a short ram intake is the air temperature. Because it pulls air from within the engine bay, the air can be warmer than the air coming from outside the vehicle, which is generally ideal for performance.

• Short Ram Intake: Warmer air, when entering the engine, can reduce performance slightly due to lower air density. This could negatively affect engine power at higher temperatures.
• Stock Intake: Stock intakes are often designed to pull air from a colder part of the engine bay or even from outside the car, which can improve air density and performance, especially at lower speeds.

4. Installation and Cost

Another benefit of a short ram intake over the stock system is ease of installation. Short ram intakes are generally easier to install because they use fewer components and shorter pipes.

• Short Ram Intake: Short ram intake installation is relatively simple and usually takes a couple of hours for most car models. It’s also often more affordable compared to a full cold air intake system.
• Stock Intake: The stock intake is already installed in your car and doesn’t need any modifications unless it’s damaged. Replacing it with an aftermarket short ram intake could be a cost-effective way to improve performance.

5. Maintenance and Durability

Both systems require maintenance, but their longevity and upkeep can vary.

• Short Ram Intake: Since short ram intakes are exposed to the engine bay environment, they may collect more heat and dirt, which could require more frequent cleaning and filter replacement.
• Stock Intake: Stock intakes are generally more durable and require less frequent maintenance, as they are designed to last longer and handle a wider range of environmental conditions.

When Should You Consider Upgrading to a Short Ram Intake?

A short ram intake may be the right upgrade for your vehicle if:

1. You’re Looking for Better Throttle Response: If your car feels sluggish or lacks acceleration, a short ram intake can help improve the engine’s throttle response.
2. You Want a Sportier Engine Sound: If you enjoy the louder and more aggressive engine sound that comes with a short ram intake, it’s a fun and easy upgrade.
3. You Want a Simple, Cost-Effective Upgrade: A short ram intake is often one of the most affordable and simple upgrades you can make to improve engine performance.

When Should You Stick with the Stock Intake?

The stock intake might be a better choice for you if:

1. You Value Fuel Efficiency: Stock intakes are generally designed to optimize fuel economy, which could be more important to you than performance gains.
2. You Prefer Quiet Engine Noise: If you prefer a quieter, more subdued engine noise, the stock intake is likely a better choice.
3. You Don’t Need Performance Modifications: If you’re satisfied with your car’s current performance and don’t plan on making significant modifications, the stock intake should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs about short ram intake vs stock –

1. Does a short ram intake increase horsepower?

Yes, a short ram intake can increase horsepower by improving airflow to the engine, especially at higher RPMs, though the increase is usually modest compared to other upgrades.

2. Is a short ram intake good for daily driving?

Yes, a short ram intake can be a great upgrade for daily driving, as it provides a slight performance boost and a sportier engine sound without sacrificing too much comfort.

3. Does a short ram intake affect fuel efficiency?

While a short ram intake can improve throttle response, it might slightly decrease fuel efficiency due to the increased airflow, especially when driving aggressively.

4. How hard is it to install a short ram intake?

Installing a short ram intake is relatively easy and can typically be done in a couple of hours with basic tools. Many models come with detailed instructions.

5. Will a short ram intake damage my engine?

No, as long as you choose a high-quality short ram intake and install it correctly, it won’t damage your engine. However, using poor-quality parts or improper installation could lead to problems.

Conclusion: Is Short Ram Intake Better than Stock?

The question of whether a short ram intake is better than stock depends on what you’re looking to achieve with the car. If you’re after a simple performance boost, better throttle response, and a more aggressive engine sound, a short ram intake may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, quieter operation, and durability, sticking with the stock intake may be a better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences.

Keep in mind that while a short ram intake can offer noticeable improvements in performance, it may come at the cost of slightly warmer air, which could affect long-term performance. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to ensure that you make the right decision for your vehicle.