Choosing the Best Air Intake for Your Honda S2000

The Honda S2000, a two-seat roadster famed for its high-revving engine and well-balanced handling, has gained a cult-like following amongst car enthusiasts worldwide. A key player in the vehicle's performance? The intake system is an often underappreciated component that can significantly impact your car's horsepower and torque.


Understanding The Basics: What Is An Air Intake?

HPS Cold Air Shortram Intake Kit 2004-2005 Honda S2000 AP2 2.2L Throttle  Cable Black 827-620WB - HPS Performance Products

In the world of automotive performance, your Honda S2000’s intake serves a vital function. It acts as a channel for incoming air, allowing your engine to inhale the necessary oxygen for combustion. Not all intakes are made the same, however. There's a wide range of types, each designed with a unique approach to boosting performance. From short ram to cold air intakes, each variant offers a distinctive blend of benefits and trade-offs.


The Stock Honda S2000 Air Intake System

Modified Red Honda S2000
"IMG_1845" by Brandon Thai is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The Honda S2000 boasts an impressive intake system, engineered for efficiency and performance. This system plays a crucial role in the S2000's high-revving capabilities and impressive horsepower numbers. However, like any stock component, it's a compromise between performance, noise, and cost. While it gets the job done, it may not offer the performance improvements that some Honda S2000 owners desire.


The Value of an Aftermarket Intake Upgrade For Your Honda S2000

Why upgrade your intake, you may ask? Simply put, aftermarket intakes are designed with one goal in mind - improving performance. They allow your engine to breathe easier, bringing in more oxygen for combustion, thus leading to increased horsepower and torque. But remember, when choosing an intake, consider factors like the type of intake, cost, and your performance goals.


Sifting Through the Best: Top Honda S2000 Intake Models

The market offers a broad range of intake options for the S2000. Each brand promises to augment your vehicle's performance, but let's dig deeper to understand what makes each one unique.

AEM Cold Air Intake System

AEM Cold Air Intake | 2006-2009 Honda S2000

Recognized for its state-of-the-art cold air intake design, the AEM Cold Air Intake System guarantees a noticeable increase in horsepower throughout the entire rev range. This boost in performance provides a consistent and dependable improvement in the vehicle's performance, marking this system as a reliable choice for any Honda S2000 owner.

Injen Cold Air Intake

2006-2009 Honda S2000 2.2L 4Cyl. Polished Cold Air Intake by Injen

The Injen Cold Air Intake model incorporates a unique design to draw in more chilled, dense air, which equates to a higher concentration of oxygen. This greater oxygen density promotes more effective combustion within the engine, resulting in a notable increase in horsepower and the overall power numbers of your Honda S2K.

HPS Short Ram Intake

HPS Short ram Air Intake Kit | 2000 - 2005 Honda S2000

The HPS Short Ram Intake stands out with its compact size and straightforward installation process. Despite its smaller size, it delivers an increase in horsepower and torque, setting a perfect equilibrium between cost and performance enhancements. This intake is an excellent option for those who aim to maximize their Honda S2K's performance without breaking the bank.

aFe Takeda Momentum Cold Air Intake

aFe Takeda Momentum Cold Air Intake | 2000-2009 Honda S2000

The aFe Takeda Momentum Cold Air Intake presents an advanced sealed housing design that effectively segregates cold air intake from the engine's heat. This isolation ensures the consistent, optimal performance of the system by maintaining the intake air at the ideal temperature, guaranteeing a steady flow of cool air to feed your F-Series engine.

K&N Performance Air Intake System

K&N Performance Air Intake System | 2000-2009 Honda S2000

K&N, a respected name in the performance parts industry, provides a performance air intake system that assures a variety of improvements over stock. The system not only improves throttle responsiveness but also enhances the engine sound and promises a verifiable increase in horsepower. It's a comprehensive solution for S2000 owners aiming to upgrade their vehicle's overall performance.

J's Racing Tsuchinoko Intake System

J's Racing Tsuchinoko Intake System - Honda S2000 00-09 (AP1/2)

The J's Racing Tsuchinoko Intake System, a premium intake model from Japan, features a distinctive design engineered specifically for the Honda S2000. This system promises to unlock the maximum potential of the F20C or F22C1 engine, optimizing power output and efficiency. It's unique design and superior performance set it apart in the world of performance parts but it comes at a cost that some may find hard to swallow.

Unpacking Performance: Air Intake Systems on Every Budget

100 Dollar Bills Laid Out On Table

As we continue exploring the variety of performance air intake systems on the market today, we’ve come to a pivotal point: it's time to compare these systems head-to-head!

In this part of our guide, we'll examine and rate some of the leading intake systems in the market, ranging from the high-end to the more affordable choices. Our goal is to shed some light on these options and assist you in finding the perfect fit that matches both your performance aspirations and budget needs. So, let's roll up our sleeves and see where each one ranks and help you choose an aftermarket intake that suits your needs.

  1. J's Racing Tsuchinoko Intake System - This premium intake system takes the top spot due to its unique design and excellent performance, specifically crafted for the Honda S2000. While it might be pricier, it promises to unlock the full potential of your vehicle's engine, making it the top-tier choice.

  2. aFe Takeda Momentum Cold Air Intake - Following closely is the aFe Takeda system with its advanced sealed housing design. Its superior isolation capabilities ensure optimal performance under any conditions. Its higher price might only suit some budgets, but it's an investment for those seeking uncompromised performance.

  3. K&N Performance Air Intake System - The K&N system secures the middle spot for its multifaceted improvements. It's known for better throttle responsiveness, enhanced engine sound, and a verifiable horsepower increase. This system, while not the cheapest, offers a wide array of benefits that justify its cost.

  4. AEM Cold Air Intake System - Recognized for its state-of-the-art cold air intake design, the AEM Cold Air Intake System guarantees a noticeable increase in horsepower throughout the entire rev range. This feature provides a consistent and dependable improvement in the vehicle's performance, making this system a reliable choice for any Honda S2K owner..

  5. Injen Cold Air Intake - This model, while offering a unique design to draw in denser oxygen and boost power, falls a little behind others in terms of comprehensive performance benefits. Its price is fairly moderate, making it a suitable choice for those who want a good blend of cost and performance.

  6. HPS Short Ram Intake - Although this model places last on this list, it should not be discounted as a viable option. It's compact size and easy installation process, coupled with a modest rise in horsepower and torque, make it the most budget-friendly option among these systems. If cost is a primary concern, this could be an ideal choice.

Remember, the "best" system depends largely on its intended use and your personal preferences. It is always important to do your research and consider your unique needs when choosing a performance intake system for your Honda S2000.

Installation Guide: Getting Your New Intake in Place

While the idea of installing a new intake might seem daunting, with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, it's a task that can be accomplished in your garage. Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary equipment, including wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers.

Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer, keeping in mind that each intake will have a unique installation process. Be patient, take your time, and avoid common mistakes such as overtightening the clamps or misaligning the intake, which could lead to air leaks or damage.

Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Intake in Prime Condition

Dirty/Clean Air Intake Filter

Once your new intake is installed, it's essential to keep it in top condition. Regular checks and cleaning can ensure it's performing optimally. Pay attention to the filters: they play a crucial role and need to be cleaned or replaced periodically.

If you notice any issues, like a decrease in performance or unusual noises, it's worth taking the time to troubleshoot. It could be something as simple as a loose clamp or a dirty filter. Regular maintenance not only enhances performance but also prolongs the life of your intake.

Wrapping Up: The Importance of Choosing the Right Intake

In the quest for improved performance, choosing the right intake for your Honda S2000 is vital. Whether it's the AEM Cold Air Intake System's consistent performance boost, the Injen Cold Air Intake's cooler, denser air intake, or the unique design of the J's Racing Tsuchinoko, the right intake can truly unlock your S2000's potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an aftermarket intake really make a difference in performance?

Yes, an aftermarket intake can improve your S2000's performance by allowing more air into the engine, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.

Can I install an intake myself, or should I hire a professional?

While professional installation is an option, most intakes come with step-by-step instructions, making it possible to do it yourself with the right tools.

How often should I clean or replace my intake filters?

Generally, reusable filters should be cleaned or replaced every 30,000 to 40,000 miles, but it's best to check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product.

How does an intake affect fuel economy?

Upgraded intakes can improve fuel economy indirectly. By increasing the efficiency of the combustion process, the engine may require less fuel to generate the same amount of power. However, fuel economy can be influenced by numerous factors, including driving habits and engine tuning, so the impact of an intake upgrade alone might not be significantly noticeable.


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