The next mod I'm considering is adding a new intake system to my G - as I see it, there are two different approaches I can take:

1) The popular approach (so it seems) is to purchase a Z-tube ($73) in combination w/ the new JWT Popcharger ($113), or

2) Buy an all in one intake system, like the K&N Typhoon ($230) and be done with it...

But my question is, which one will not only yield the most horsepower gain, but which one is going to be more practical in everyday driving (reliability)? Also, I really like it when you can actually tell that you have an aftermarket intake - so which one is also going to sound the best? Thanks for the comments/advice/answers in advance...

'03 G35 coupe - BS/Willow cloth

 

I haven't heard the K&N so I don't have an opinion about it, but I do have the z/pop combo and it made a big difference in sound and overall feel of the performance. It sounds like a real sports car now, very deep and loud past 4k but very mild when not at WOT. Very much worth what I paid, I would do it over again and not consider anything else. I was impressed with the quality and fitment of the pop charger, I installed it myself and it was very easy and came out very clean. My biased vote is for the z/pop. I'm sure there is a lot who would agree with me.

 

Another vote for z-tube/pop-charger!
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Dr. Jim
2003 DesertPlatinum/Graphite G35C 6MT
Aero/Prem/Nav/HyperGround/XMSat/BSM/Tint/ClearBra/CG/NismoChromeShifter/RacePedals/Z-tube/JWTPopCharger

 

both are good. i actually really like the K&N, but just that it doesnt hvae a heat shield. that really turned me off to it.

G35S 6MT
Technosquare ECU
350Z Springs & Struts
6-wire ground kit

 

why not just get a z-tube and a drop in k&n panel filter. i personally think the pop caharger (dinky heat shield) and all other cai's are over rated for our cars. our cars actually come stock with a ram air style of intake, so i just stuck with it but made it better.
just my $0.02.

 

antrock: when you did the drop in k&n filter....are there any differences in sound???

 

I had the Z tube with K&N drop in and replaced it with the PopCharger this weekend... I didn't feel a difference in power but the sound makes it worth it. Go with the Pop Charger/Z tube if you're really looking to make your G sound mean...The Z tube is what's going to give you the power increase.

 

I like the z-tube/K&N drop mod. I can feel the difference. The sound changed (more growl) over 4K but it is still not extemely loud. That is what I was looking for. If you are looking for sound the pop-charger will give you more of that.

2003.5 5AT
Premium Package
Tire/Wheel Package
K&N Filter, Z-Tube, EGK

 

I have been leaning toward the z tube w/ a KN drop in filter. Like someone already said, the stock air intake is already drawing some cold air. So you can make it better and still look stock.
All of these choices only add a few HP. I guess the popcharger adds more sound though.
One option I have been alerted to by Grubbs is that they are coming out with an air intake sytem that replaces the filter, tube, and MAS air flow part and I believe they said it will all be polished aluminum and really look good. I may wait to see what that is all about.

 

Not looking stock is fun too. The sound is worth the price. It may save you from wanting an exhaust.

03.5 5AT-S (Black-Willow-Premium-Sport-Aero-GroundingGear™-Silverstars-PIAA-PopCharger-Z Tube)