What are your opinions on the Steeda or C&L intakes the don't require a tune? I will be getting a tune eventually just can't decide which one.
I understand the CAI without a tune won't give me any significant gains but want to get started somewhere.

 

Most cold air intake offer little, if any gain. Those not requiring a tune are more on the "nothing" side of the scale. For what it's worth, your car already has a cold air intake, Ford did a decent job with the intakes on the newer Mustangs. Not much room for performance improvement unless serious power adders are installed, unless you're just going for the look.

 

The stock box is a CAI.

 

I know this,
I guess what I'm asking is which one would be better for when I eventually do get a tune, would just be for looks and sound for now.

 

The more mods you do, the better an aftermarket CAI will perform. I think a CAI is worth it since it flows better and it allows the motor to breath better enhancing the sound. If you're going to mod it, you have to start somewhere.

 

Airaid is highly recommended. Only intake that has a 85mm tube straight to you intake manifold. Rest of the others cut down at the throttle body.

 

Waste of money even with a tune. The stock one is a true CAI. Track testing has shown zero gains. If you want to start somewhere start with a tune.

 

Thanks for the input guys, I started with appearance mods and I think I'm happy with what I've done, now time to start with the go faster stuff.
Cautious about tuning though, don't have any experience with it, and want to make sure I go the right direction.

 

Most of the power will come from the tune with some gains from the CAI ... the combo is a great choice for optimizing horsepower & torque.

If you purchase the no tune CAI ... then you can run it with a tune down the road ... you are getting the best of both worlds!

You can read about our CAI here:

http://www.steeda.com/blog/2012/03/m...-intake-truth/

You will be very happy with the engineering, design & manufacturing that went into our CAI! Also ... it is made right here in the U.S.A!

Let me know if I can help assist with a discount code or put you in contact with a Steeda sales professional?

Best Regards,

TJ