Panel vs induction kit?

Question

hi i have a 2000 d14 1.4 civic hatchback, and i was wondering which product should i buy:

either the k&n 57i induction kit or a k&n panel filter. . they are both the same price but i was wondering which would give me more power or overall better for my car? i was going to go for the panel because it saves me cleaining it like an induction kit would constantley require . .

any suggestions? . .thanks

Answer 1

Ok, first thing's first:  Both filter options will require cleaning at the same interval.  

Yes, the conical-style filter in the 57i kit is more open to the elements, and subject to potentially more dirt, but it is also larger and flows substantially more air.

Ok, now the air issue.  The conical (cone shaped) filter in the 57i kit would definitely flow more air than the panel filter.  Yes, the K&N panel filter will flow more air than your factory filter, but the K&N Cone will flow even more air.

Also, your factory intake system is not smooth.  Take a look under your hood and see what the intake setup looks like.  It's probably some black plastic with weird angles and extra little off-shoots for air to travel in.  Good from the factory, ok gas mileage and power, relatively quiet - but not super high-performance.

Now take a look at an image of the 57i setup from K&N.  Nice smooth pieces of tubing for the air to travel in.  It flows more air, and and the air has a smoother path to travel on.  It's a win/win situation for everybody.

Your car is going to sound better and probably get better gas mileage and power no matter which option you choose.

If you are going for performance, and will be upgrading your little car further in the future - get the 57i kit.

If you just want to upgrade and pick up some gas mileage and maybe a little power - get the panel filter and call it a day.

You'll be happy either way.  Good luck.