Thought I throw up some quick pics of the Carbonio CAI and install I completed yesterday. I also included a photo of the re-positioned smog pump. I will post a more complete review in the next few days.

 

looking good. i love the cf
notice any performance / sound differences?

 

+1 on the cf wing!

 

I love the new sound. I think the box may have saved me from spending money on a new exhaust. My overall impression is better throttle response and possibly a little stronger pull from 30-80 MPH. Its hard to say if its truly stronger or just sounds so much better, which gives the feeling of more HP. I have it paired up with Suncoast headers and an RSS plenum and they seem to match up well. I have some remaining questions and open items with regards to the install process that I am trying to confirm with Carbonio. Once they have answered my questions I will post my overall impressions on fit, finish, overall quality and my overall impressions of performance and value.

 

nice... looks pretty..... how much was it?

 

nice

 

Nice but you still need an exhaust

 

If I'm not mistaken, that kit's around $1500. Looks awesome

 

Do they come with the air pump relocation bracket?
Nice! Love carbon fiber

 

No the kit did not come with the relocation bracket. Luckily my friend had one sent to him with his X51 CAI and I happened to be doing the install at his house. I have a call into Carbonio to see if they have a bracket for the 996 install and it was just forgotten. The bracket is not needed in the 997. I also needed to slightly modify the metal bracket for the hood latch to eliminate a clearance issue. not a big deal just used a hammer to round out the corner.

Thanks all for the kind words.

 

I like it! Little pricey for no gains though

 

I agree. fortunately for me being the first to step up I was cut a little better deal (sorry I agreed not to disclose the price). This made it worth it to me to give it a try. I am just going to leave the engine lid opened when parked in the garage so I see all the carbon when I walk by. It really adds a nice pop to an otherwise bland engine compartment. The car runs really well with it and the sound alone is almost worth the price. I will leave the hp tq debate to others. The throttle response definitely feels better and the car seems to pull stronger at high RPM's, but this may be a placebo effect due to the sound. So far I am very happy with the box. For the money I would also consider the X51 if you don't mind cutting the second hole in the engine lid.