Best Cold Air Intake for Corvette
Corvette

Best Cold Air Intake for Corvette C5, C6 and C7 – Comparison Charts

For some of you, it may still be a mystery that the first step to improving your Vette’s performance is to replace the cold air intake. Such a simple and requested accessory can enhance a range of performing functions of your vehicle. Starting with throttle response, mileage, and horsepower, all can be improved with the help of a properly-chosen CAI intake.

If you are worried about the improvement affecting your factory warranty, you should put your worries aside since most of the cold air intakes are designed not to interfere with it. So, if you are ready to discover the Best Cold Air Intake for Corvette for your c5 or c6 Corvette – you have come to the right place.

Best Cold Air Intake for C5 Corvette (Updated March, 2024)

Product Product Information View on Amazon
Editor’s Choice

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 50-State Legal: 2001-2004 Chevy Corvette

1) K&N Cold Air Intake Kit

  • Best Features:
    • Simplified item maintenance
    • User-oriented installation
    • Enhanced item longevity
  • Filter Type: Oiled
  • Power Increase: +11.3 HP and 13 lbs x ft Torque
  • Fits Models: 2001-2004 Corvette C5 z06 5.7L

Check Price

Volant 25957C Cool Air Intake

2) Volant Cold Air Intake C5 Corvette

  • Best Features:
    • Easy item access
    • Reusable and washable filter
    • Enhances and sealed lid
  • Filter Type: Oiled
  • Power Increase: n/a
  • Fits Models: 2001-2004 Chevy Corvette C5 z06 5.7L
  • Available Options:1999-2001 Corvette C5 z06 5.7L

Check Price

BBK 1726 Cold Air Intake System - Power Plus Series Performance Kit For C5 Corvette

3) BBK 1726 Cold Air Intake System

  • Best Features:
    • Simplified installation
    • Increased throttle response
    • Enhanced item design
  • Filter Type: Oiled
  • Power Increase: +10-15 HP and 10 lbs x ft Torque
  • Fits Models: 1997-2004 Corvette C5 z06 5.7L

Check Price

Best Cold Air Intake for C5 Corvette Review

1. K&N C5 Corvette Cold Air Intake

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 50-State Legal: 2001-2004 Chevy Corvette

Some brands have been on the market for a while now, so they know perfectly what they are doing and for which purpose. If you ask me, I would name K&N among the primary brands belonging to the category. The fact is that the CIA system that the vendor offers is genuinely a hurricane, so powerful and reliable it is.

To begin with, the item offers as much as 50% improved cold airflow, and that is more than a significant increase. Apart from that, the tube of the system is paired with an oversized filter instead of a regular one. The filter is oiled and reusable. What is more, the brand promises as much as a million-mile warranty. That would be about 10 years, and that is a serious promise if you ask me.

Lastly, the accessory installation should take you no more than an hour and a half with all but basic tools at hand. Besides, the cold air intake is super easy to access and look after when needed. The vendor states that you are not going to need to clean the filter sooner than every 100K miles.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
5
Mileage
5
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
4.8
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Trusted brand quality
Seriously enhanced item longevity
Oversized and oiled filter
Reusable and washable filter
50% improved airflow
Pricier than the others

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

If you are searching for those corvette cold air intake systems which are designed to serve you long and faithfully, while carrying out all the primary functions – K&N is the best brand to think about.

2. Volant C5 Corvette Dual Cold Air Intake

Volant 25957C Cool Air Intake

There are some practical ways that you can enhance the torque of the vehicle. However, if you are looking for the most affordable way, I will certainly recommend you think about investing in the quality CAI. The system offered by Volant deserves our attention not only due to the fact that it is averagely-priced but due to a number of other reasons too.

Firstly, the system is equipped with a high-quality RAM filter. The filter, in its turn, is improved with a large intake duct so that the Vette’s engine gets an enhanced passage to breathe via. Apart from that, the system bends, and general design is oriented at the horsepower improvement as well as throttle response.

Additionally, the system is spiced up with a larger shield so that more heat is deflected while the engine is running. It goes without saying that the filter is reusable and easy to wash. The connectors are made of silicone, and that means that they are very flexible while also super heat-resistant.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.8
Mileage
4.9
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Enhanced and high-grade filter
Customized design to fit the vehicle
User-oriented and fast installation
Affordable price for improved quality
None found so far

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

When you are willing to save up on the purchase while not losing all the crucial quality features, you should pick carefully. Luckily, the review of the Volant CAI will guide you in the right direction!

3. BBK Cold Air Intake for Corvette C5

BBK 1726 Cold Air Intake System - Power Plus Series Performance Kit For C5 Corvette

Very often, the new vehicle update is postponed due to the fact that there are no means to be spent on a professional mechanic. If you are willing to try yourself at installing a CAI on your own, then the BBK system is the best to start with. The truth is that you can succeed with the installation in a matter of minutes so effortless and user-oriented it is.

That is not where all the advantages suggested by the brand end. The fact is that the BBK system is the one designed to grant your Vette up to 15 horsepower boost. If you run a powerful vehicle, that is more than enough to take it to the next level. Even if that is not enough, you can always pair it with some other power adders, think about throttle bodies or performance exhaust, for instance.

The filter the system comes packed with conic-shaped, washable, and extremely high-flow. The heat shield adds up to the colder air delivery so that your engine is ‘breathing’ well all the time.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.9
Mileage
5
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
4.8
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Simplified and effortless installation
Significant horsepower boost
Durable and reusable filter
Dyno-tested filter
No tuning necessary
None discovered so far

Best Cold Air Intake for Corvette

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

In case all you need is up to 15 horsepower boost, the chances are that BBK cold air intake system is the one to satisfy your needs perfectly.

Best Cold Air Intake for C6 Corvette (Updated March, 2024)

Product Product Information View on Amazon
Editor’s Choice

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 2006-2007 Chevy Corvette

1) K&N Cold Air Intake Kit

  • Best Features:
    • Improved towing function
    • Enhanced item longevity
    • Simplified maintenance
  • Power Increase: +50% Airflow
  • Fits Models:
    2006-2007 Chevy Corvette C6 6.0L
    2006-2013 Chevy Corvette C6 6.2L

6.0L

6.2L

Vararam 2005-2007 C6 Corvette Snake Charmer Cold Air Intake

2) Vararam Snake Charmer Cold Air Intake Kit

  • Best Features:
    • No tuning required
    • Top-notch drivability
    • User-oriented installation
  • Power Increase: +39-42 hp (+8-10 mph on top speed)
  • Fits Models:
    2005-2007 Chevy Corvette C6 6.0L
    2006-2013 Chevy Corvette C6 6.2L
    2008-2013 Chevy Corvette C6 7.0L

6.0L

6.2L

7.0L

Airaid 251-218 SynthaMax Dry Filter Intake

3) Airaid 251-218 SynthaMax Cold Air Intake System

  • Best Features:
    • Highly improved performance
    • Supreme mileage boost
    • Simple and straightforward installation
  • Power Increase: n/a
  • Fits Models:
    2005-2007 Chevy Corvette C6 6.0L
    2008-2010 Chevy Corvette C6 6.2L

6.0L

6.2L

Corsa Part 44108 Air Intake Carbon Fiber Chevy Corvette C6

4) Corsa 44108 Air Intake

  • Best Features:
    • Enhanced fuel economy
    • Extremely lightweight
    • Improved item sturdiness
  • Power Increase: 21hp, 30lbs of torque
  • Fits Models:
    2006-2013 Chevy Corvette C6 6.2L
    2008-2013 Chevy Corvette C6 7.0L

Check Price

Best Cold Air Intake for C6 Corvette Review

1. K&N Cold Air Intake for C6 Corvette

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 2006-2007 Chevy Corvette

Everyone who has given the K&N cold air intake systems a try will undoubtedly agree that the manufacturer has reached another level of perfection when working on the system. It is true that it is certainly not the cheapest CAI system on the market however, the reputation proceeds it. When you are in need of a reliable and durable system that is super easy to look after, simple to install, and lifetime lasting – K&N is there for you.

One of the primary functions of such a system is to protect the engine and keep it cool and going at its highest. All that is certainly provided by the vendor. Nevertheless, the list of advantages is not that limited since the piece is properly-design and a pleasure to work with.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
5
Mileage
4.9
Easy to Install
5
Value for Money
4.7
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Ultimate horsepower gain
Unbelievable engine purr
Enhanced item design
100K filter longevity before each cleaning
Supreme quality comes for a price

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

Those of you who are interested in the accessory that is to be installed in about an hour and to last a lifetime should pay particular attention to what K&N has to offer.

2. Vararam Cold Air Intake C6 Corvette

Vararam 2005-2007 C6 Corvette Snake Charmer Cold Air Intake

Some drivers are not ready to invest into a CAI system without it being adequately tested. Vararam has been reluctant to introduce their Snakecharmer for almost a year until they decided that it is ready to see the world. What makes their intake system special is the unique build that is different from the majority. The fact is that the developers emphasized not the peak pressure the item produces but the time it takes to get to that peak. Thus, the faster response enhances drivability, torque, and general vehicle performance.

It needs to be stated that the system has been built for ramming. Such a direction has affected the aero package as well as the shape of the system in its peculiar way. The filter the system features is also special. It is regularly washable, but it is enhanced with deeper pleats than usual filters feature. Those pleats are also numerous, while the peaks and valleys of the system are open so that the flow capacity is improved.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
5
Mileage
5
Easy to Install
4.8
Value for Money
4.9
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Customized system design
Extensive testing has been conducted
Customized and improved filter
Tremendously enhanced system effect
This is no regular CAI you are used to
The cost is slightly higher than the average

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

If you are looking for a pro cold intake system for your Vette, Vararam has definitely taken the system design and capacity to the new level of perfection.

3. Airraid C6 Corvette Cold Air Intake

Airaid 251-218 SynthaMax Dry Filter Intake

Airraid cold air intakes are aimed at maximized engine performance and all the main features related are related to the purpose. To start with, the system is updated with the cold air dam, which can be easily sealed into the hood. Such an approach ensures that there is a slim chance of engine heat to getting into the intake. Thus, only cool air is to run through the system.

When it comes to the filter, the vendor offers you a chance to choose between a dry or oiled one depending upon your needs. Apart from that, the variety of finishes the filters come in is quite impressive – they are three. Not only the customizable design deserves the attention but the material that the filters are made of. The thing is that double-layered synthetic filters are destined to filter the air that gets in the engine twice as good. Lastly, the filters are reusable, and they are utterly easy to maintain properly. In the majority of cases, all that you need is to wash and rinse them.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.7
Mileage
4.8
Easy to Install
4.8
Value for Money
4.9
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
High-quality filter either dry or oiled
Simple and hassle-free installation
Washable and durable filters
Great customizable design
Some users claim it to be a little longer than needed

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

When you care about your engine more than about anything else but pricy vendors would blow a hole in your pocket, Airraid is an excellent alternative.

4. Corsa C6 Corvette Cold Air Intake

Corsa Part 44108 Air Intake Carbon Fiber Chevy Corvette C6

If the weight of the item is of high importance to you, then Corsa has something in store for you. Their Corvette cold air intake is designed to provide maximum performance while being the lightest possible. In case you wonder what makes it different from the stock intake system, the shape would be to name the primary function. The shape of the intake is not that restrictive so that the horsepower as well as torque increase.

It needs to be mentioned that the CAI from Corsa has been created to work well with the exhaust system from the brand. Should you choose to pick both the performance of the vehicle will be taken to the whole new level. It is said that the horsepower increase will reach up to 21 while the torque up to 30. Besides, with such a boost, the engine will remain 10% cooler.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.9
Mileage
4.9
Easy to Install
5
Value for Money
4.5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
Enhance designs
Unbelievable conjunction with Corsa exhaust system
Elegant and modern design
Improved fuel economy and overall vehicle response
The high cost of the item
Needs to be reoiled every 20K miles

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

The Corsa CAI is proved to be among the premium systems on the market. The performance boost that the accessory is designed to provide is truly supreme.

Best Cold Air Intake C7 Corvette (Updated March, 2024)

Product Product Information View on Amazon
Editor’s Choice

aFe Power 52-74202-1 Momentum Performance Intake System (Non CARB Compliant, Dry, 3-Layer Filter

1) aFe PwerCold Air Intake for C7 Corvette

  • Best Features:
    • Insane horsepower boost
    • Installation is a breeze
    • No-removal filter expectation
  • Power Increase: 46 horsepower and 39 lbs of torque
  • Fits Models: 2015-2019 Chevy Corvette C7 6.2L

Check Price

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower

2) K&N Cold Air Intake Kit for C7 Corvette

  • Best Features:
    • Precise and professional build
    • Enhance engine sound
    • High-quality engine protection
  • Power Increase: +50% Airflow
  • Fits Models: 2014-2019 Chevy Corvette C7 6.2L

Check Price

Best Cold Air Intake C7 Corvette Review

1. aFe Power Cold Air Intake for C7 Corvette

aFe Power 52-74202-1 Momentum Performance Intake System (Non CARB Compliant, Dry, 3-Layer Filter

I am not going to lie to you, aFe intake systems are my absolute favorites. The truth is that the price that the brand offers is significantly higher than average, but the system’s feature set is worth it. To start with, the aftermarket intake outflows the stock one by 25%. However, the design is so well-patented that the piece fits into the stock item location seamlessly. The housing is mounted on the fender so that it gets the coolest air possible. Due to the cool airflow, the maximum horsepower than the system offers is up to 46, and that is far more than most systems can offer.

The design is highly innovative so that in order to access and check the filter state, all you need to do is look through the clear sight window. Apart from that, the system is equipped with a CAD-produced intake tube. The tube assists in gaining the best power gains.

The filter in the system is possibly the largest in the industry. Such a design results in flawless performance and intense filtration.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
5
Mileage
5
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
4.7
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Enhanced one-piece housing
Improved high-quality 5-layer filter
Hassle-free installation
CAD-designed intake tube
The item is a pricey one

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

If you ask me what is the best cold air intake for the C7 Corvette on the aftermarket these days, I will say it that aFe holds the first place deservingly.

2. K&N C7 Corvette Cold Air Intake

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower

It seems that K&N has treated every Vette engine as if it were alive. Why am I saying this? Simply because they know if your engine can’t ‘breathe,’ you can’t expect it to work to its fullest. Thus, the elimination of all possible airflow obstructions is the key to enhance the vehicle’s performance. It is true that if there is not enough power provided into the engine, even the most potent one will lose in its potency. The way the vendor chose to deal with the issue was the complete filter substitution for a far more effective one.

The filter K&N offers is claimed to serve as long as 10 years, and it requires cleaning only after 100K miles in use. The recent tests prove that the airflow is improved by up to 50% when compared to stock intake systems. It should be added that the K&N intake system can help in towing too. The acceleration, as well as uphill performance, is well-enhanced.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.9
Mileage
4.9
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Simple and effortless installation
Easy-going maintenance process
High-improved towing capacity
Lovely engine sound for those who value the power
None found

Verdict
colduser
colduser
Ask Question

Some users trust the most devoted Vette aftermarket brands, and if you belong to the category, then a K&N intake system should be on your list.

Conclusion

Even though most cold air systems are designed to carry one simple function – supply cold air into the engine, many brands have taken the thing to the next level. Whether it is a horsepower boost, engine protection, lifetime warranty, or a range of other perks that you are interested in, these cold air intake comparisons will surely shed some light on the matter.

Add Comment

Click here to post a comment