Hi all,
I just got the Comptech intake/icebox and 4-2-1 header installed a few weeks ago in addition to the Comptech catback exhaust. Car is a 1999 black gsr. I thought maybe this "review" would be a helpful addition to the forum.
My opinion of the comptech i/h/e system has been overwhelmingly positive so far. I currently drive the car 160 miles/day for my daily commute to work, and I noticed quite a difference after I had the system installed. Comptech lists a 20 whp gain via a dynochart (
http://www.comptechusa.com/images/dy...sr_ice_box.pdf), and they may not be too far off their claims. I personally haven't dynoed my car but the butt (or money if you will) dyno definitely confirms a noticeable power increase. The sound is also really awesome; these are the only components I've changed out on the car (minus suspension) and I really love the sound the comptech I/H/E system makes. The intake is really only loud at higher rpm's, well past the vtec engagement point. The thinner header piping allows you to hear some engine whine at idle. And for people interested in getting a "quiet" exhaust, comptech's cat back exhaust is definitely NOT for you, although it is still quieter than most aftermarket exhausts out there. Comptech fit and finish is top class.
What is the only bad thing about comptech's I/H/E? Well for one thing I think the price is certainly restrictive. All in all I paid about $1200 for the icebox, intake, header, and catback exhaust.
Why spend the extra money? Comptech claims their system gives more of a smooth power gain. The only ultimate advantage comptech has is with their icebox design. It functions as a cold-air intake but doesn't have the danger of hydrolocking. AEM does make a bypass valve BUT the bypass valve reduces the power gains on the AEM CAI (something they don't really like to mention). It's still tough to justify the additional cost but the fact that comptech parts don't void warranty should reflect on the quality of their products.
Well I hope that was a useful review.
Shingoblade