How Much HP Does a Short Ram Intake Add? Is It Worth the Upgrade?

A short ram intake typically adds between 5 to 15 horsepower, depending on factors like the engine type and vehicle model. While the gains are modest, the improved airflow can lead to better throttle response and a more engaging driving experience.

A short ram intake (SRI) is one of the most popular aftermarket modifications for car enthusiasts seeking to improve their vehicle’s performance. Many people wonder, “How much HP does a short ram intake add?” The answer isn’t as simple as a fixed number, but a short ram intake can provide a modest increase in horsepower by allowing the engine to breathe more freely.

Let’s explain how much horsepower you can expect to gain from this modification and whether it’s worth the investment.

Short Ram Intake

A short ram intake is an aftermarket air intake system designed to replace the stock intake system. Typically, it features a shorter and more direct path for air to enter the engine, which helps increase airflow and reduces intake resistance.

Unlike factory air intakes, which are often convoluted and restrictive, a short ram intake has fewer bends and a more efficient design, often paired with a high-flow air filter. This modification can help the engine receive more air, improving combustion efficiency and allowing for better performance.

When a short ram intake installed correctly, it can increase horsepower, throttle response, and overall engine performance. However, it’s important to note that the increase in horsepower may not be as significant as some other performance upgrades, such as exhaust systems or forced induction systems like turbochargers. Nonetheless, the short ram intake remains a favorite for those looking to improve their vehicle’s responsiveness and sound.

Does a Short Ram Intake Increase Horsepower?

The question “Does short ram intake increase horsepower?” has been asked by many car enthusiasts, especially those considering this modification for their vehicle. The short answer is yes—a short ram intake does increase horsepower, but the gains are usually modest.

Generally, the increase in horsepower will range from 5 to 15 horsepower, depending on various factors such as the engine type, vehicle model, and whether other modifications are made in conjunction with the intake.

The primary way a short ram intake adds horsepower is by improving airflow into the engine. With a more direct path for air to travel, there’s less restriction, which means the engine can breathe more freely. This reduction in airflow resistance can lead to a slight increase in engine efficiency, which can ultimately translate into more horsepower.

How Much HP Does a Short Ram Intake Add?

On average, a short ram intake adds between 5 to 15 horsepower to a stock vehicle. This gain varies depending on factors such as:

1. Engine Type: Naturally aspirated engines benefit the most from short ram intakes. Forced induction engines (like turbocharged or supercharged engines) generally see fewer gains from a short ram intake because they require more air for combustion.
2. Vehicle Make and Model: Different vehicles will have different results. High-performance cars or vehicles with restrictive factory intakes may see more noticeable gains, while others may show only marginal improvements.
3. Additional Modifications: If your vehicle has other modifications like a performance exhaust system or a custom tune, the gains from a short ram intake might be amplified.

Short Ram Intake HP Gain: What to Expect

The horsepower gain from a short ram intake is usually modest compared to other performance upgrades. In some cases, you might only notice a 5 horsepower increase, while in other cases, you might see as much as 15 horsepower. For example, a short ram intake on a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine might add approximately 10-12 horsepower. However, the gains will be less noticeable on larger engines or engines that are already optimized for airflow.

While the horsepower increase may seem small, the overall improvement in engine responsiveness, throttle response, and sound can significantly enhance your driving experience. Even small increases in horsepower can have a noticeable effect on your vehicle’s acceleration and overall performance, especially in a lighter, more agile car.

Factors Affecting the HP Gain from a Short Ram Intake

The amount of horsepower a short ram intake adds can vary significantly depending on several factors. Knowledge about these variables will help you get a better sense of how much power you can realistically expect from this modification.

1. Air Temperature

The temperature of the air drawn into the engine plays a significant role in horsepower gains. Short ram intakes often draw air from within the engine bay, where temperatures can be higher than outside air. This warmer air has lower oxygen density, which can reduce the performance gains. On the other hand, cold air intakes draw cooler air from outside the engine bay, which tends to provide more significant horsepower gains.

2. Intake Design and Quality

The design of the short ram intake itself can also affect the performance gains. Higher-quality intakes that use better materials (such as aluminum or carbon fiber) and more efficient designs can offer greater airflow and better gains. Similarly, the air filter type—whether it’s a high-flow cotton filter or a dry filter—can affect airflow and, in turn, horsepower.

3. Vehicle Modifications

If you’ve already made other performance modifications like a performance exhaust system, upgraded camshaft, or ECU tuning, the addition of a short ram intake may complement those upgrades, leading to more noticeable horsepower gains. Without other modifications, however, the increase in horsepower from just the intake might be limited.

4. Engine Size

Smaller engines tend to benefit more from short ram intakes than larger engines because they often have more restrictive factory air intake systems. While the horsepower increase may still be modest, the relative gain will be higher in smaller, naturally aspirated engines.

Short Ram Intake vs Cold Air Intake: Which Offers More HP?

When considering performance intakes, it’s often useful to compare short ram intakes with cold air intakes. Cold air intakes draw air from outside the engine bay, typically from a lower position, where the air is cooler and denser. This cooler air allows for better combustion and potentially higher horsepower gains.

In contrast, short ram intakes are typically located within the engine bay, where the air is warmer, which can reduce the efficiency of the intake. While short ram intakes provide quicker throttle response and are easier to install, cold air intakes generally provide more substantial horsepower gains due to the cooler, denser air being drawn into the engine.

If you’re looking for higher horsepower gains, a cold air intake is typically the better choice, especially for naturally aspirated engines. However, a short ram intake still offers improved throttle response, a more aggressive engine sound, and is an easier and more affordable upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs about how much hp does a short ram intake add –

1. Does a short ram intake increase horsepower?
Yes, a short ram intake can add horsepower by improving the engine’s airflow. However, the gains are usually modest, typically between 5 to 15 horsepower.

2. Can a short ram intake make a noticeable difference?
Yes, while the horsepower gain may be modest, a short ram intake can noticeably improve throttle response, engine sound, and overall driving experience.

3. Are short ram intakes better than cold air intakes?
Short ram intakes offer quicker throttle response and are easier to install, but cold air intakes generally provide higher horsepower gains due to cooler air intake.

4. Do short ram intakes improve fuel economy?
While short ram intakes improve engine breathing, they do not significantly increase fuel economy. Aggressive driving will offset any small improvements.

5. Will a short ram intake void my warranty?
Installing a short ram intake could void parts of your vehicle’s warranty, particularly if it causes damage to other components. Always check with the manufacturer before installing.

Conclusion

Short ram intakes are a great way to add some extra horsepower, improve throttle response, and enhance the car’s engine sound. While the horsepower gains are typically modest, the overall improvements in engine efficiency and driving experience are often worth the investment. If you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance or just enjoy a sportier driving experience, a short ram intake is an affordable and effective modification.

As always, make sure to consider your vehicle’s specific needs and any other performance modifications you may have before choosing a short ram intake.