OK -- this might generate some debate...
I realise that dynos don't really reflect real world driving and also that the US TSX has a slightly different engine tune to what we get. Also, that different manufacturers products are going to be tuned slightly differently...
I've been following a lot of the discussions here and at tsxclub.com about intakes, particularly the Injen CAI and the Comptech icebox. If you have a look at www.comptechusa.com/store/tsxdyno.html they have dynos of each of their products.
Basically it leads me to the conclusion that if you don't want a big torque hole low down and are looking for the best "every day use" set-up, a cat-back system is still the best way to go. It doesn't offer a huge increase in power, but it does help the torque and the cat-back is the only dyno graph where things don't dip drastically (in spots) below stock.
I've read articles on Autospeed about Integra Type Rs suffering power losses when trying to alter airbox set-ups. It just seems that when modifying high-output (in terms of capacity) Hondas, you either sacrifice your bottom end for high end power, or risk losing your top-end for low-end torque -- and have to tread a fine line.
In terms of dollars for everyday use, it just seems like a cat-back may be the best way to go.
Any thoughts? -- particularly from those who have installed CAIs of some sort...
