OK - I am sure this has been discussed 200,000 times, but it is buying time for me How much better is a CAI than just a new filter, is it worth, and what luck have you all had with the different brands? Thanks!

 

place racing cai is the best...i dont think anyone else has a cai for the maxima. i know theres a couple of different intakes available, but none come close to what the cai can do. its $220..

 

They both are filters just one has new piping that connects to the intake manifold. Also by positioning the filter away from the engine it provides nice cold air for you car to breathe. Trust me a pop charger gets hot.

 

OK,
Think about this. When your outside running around in the middle of the summer, where would you go to get cooled off? Either the shade or inside to the air conditioning. Same with the engine, it gets hot after a few min no matter the time of the year. By having the cone under the hood its just recirculating more hot air into the motor. If you go CAI, the cone is totally isolated in the fender and can breath fresh cool, dry air. This will make the motor overall breath alot better and perform better too. Not to mention it looks insane and sound close to a super charger from the outside. I get that all the time from the Hon-Duh boys.
I had the Stillen kit and to be honest looks really good under the hood, but it doesnt do a thing, i actually noticed that it takes away power Now with the CAI i have the power back plus some at low and top end... As for water,never had a problem yet (knock on wood!) I just turn the car off when i bring it to the car wash. Also try to avoid those big lakes on the sides of the road when its raining out. Thats really the only down side to it. One cool nite i took off my stock fog light and let the air rush right to the cone, kinda like Ram Air. The engine actually was running cooler than normal that nite.