Check out our list of cold air intakes for the Chevrolet Corvette C8 ERay and Stingray models. These high-flow intakes are designed to boost horsepower and torque by allowing more cool air into the engine. Cold air intakes are engineered to fit both the standard Corvette C8 Stingray and the hybrid ERay. This is because both models use the LT2 6.2L V8 engine. Be sure to compare the dyno-tested data on these different intakes. You’ll find they are proven to add noticeable power over the stock airbox. We carry a few different vendors that all offer a quality product at different price points.
We’ll compare the top contenders and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision on the best c8 corvette cold air intake. Get ready to unleash your C8 Corvette’s true power with the right cold air intake!
C8 Cold Air Intakes
Many Corvette owners choose to upgrade their engine’s air intake system to a cold air intake. Unlike the factory air intake which pulls hot engine bay air into the engine, an aftermarket cold air intake relocates the air filter outside of the engine compartment so it can draw in cooler, denser outside air instead. This cooler air is more oxygen-rich since cold air is denser, allowing more air molecules to fit inside the engine’s cylinders with each intake stroke.
More air and oxygen mixed with fuel allows more power to be produced when ignited. Corvette engines can gain anywhere from 5-15 additional horsepower from simply upgrading to a more efficient cold air intake system that improves airflow into the engine. This easy and relatively affordable modification helps unleash more of the Corvette’s performance potential from its already powerful LT2 engine
Elite Performer: Corsa Carbon Fiber Closed Box Air Intake
Specifications:
- +14 Horsepower
+13 lb-ft Torque - Enhanced engine bay performance with
- Halltech Hornet and harness fasteners
Pros:
- 100% carbon fiber construction
- Dyno-tested performance gains with dyno proven gains
- Pro Dry DryTech filters with 50,000-mile maintenance interval
Cons:
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Higher price point compared to other factory locations, which may not favor those looking to increase quantity
Rating:
- Performance: 5/5
- Design: 5/5
- Price: 4/5
If maximum performance is what you’re after, the Corsa Carbon Fiber Closed Box Air Intake is a superior choice. With its 100% carbon fiber construction, this intake system is lightweight, durable, and designed to optimize airflow for your C8 Corvette. I was amazed by the performance gains it provided during our testing, with dyno-proven increases of 14 horsepower and 13 lb-ft of torque.
The DryTech filters contribute to these gains, offering a low-maintenance solution with a 50,000-mile service interval. While the price may be higher than other options, the quality and performance make it well worth the investment.
Corsa Trunk Panel
Wanna show off that epic Corsa Carbon Fiber cold air intake? You can buy a very slick trunk panel that is easily installed. This allows people to see the intake when you open up the engine bay. You can even use this to show off another brand’s cold air intake design, should you want to do that.
Budget-Friendly Power Booster: K&N Performance C8 Corvette Cold Air Intake
Specifications:
- High-density polyethylene tube
- Up to 22.28 horsepower increase
- Washable, reusable High-Flow Air Filter™
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Increased horsepower and torque
- Easy installation
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Pro Dry DryTech filters with 50,000-mile maintenance interval
Cons:
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Less premium materials compared to Corsa Carbon Fiber option
Rating:
- Performance: 4/
- Design: 3/5
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Price: 5/5
The K&N Performance C8 Corvette Cold Air Intake is a top pick if you’re after a power boost that doesn’t break the bank. Although not as ‘premium’ as the Corsa Carbon Fiber option, the K&N Performance C8 Corvette Cold Air Intake delivers impressive results for its price. Don’t sleep on this one!
Middleman: aFe Chevrolet Corvette C8 Track Series Carbon Fiber Cold Air Intake System
Specifications:
- Lightweight carbon fiber intake tube
- Up to +12 HP and +10 lbs-ft torque increase
- Dual 4″ 360-degree radial flow air filters
Pros:
- Increased horsepower and torque
- Carbon fiber tube enhances visual appeal
- Captures cool outside air, minimizes warm engine air
- Durable stainless steel clamps and silicone couplings
- Seals to trunk cover to protect filters
Cons:
- Expensive compared to non-carbon fiber options
- Not legal for street use in California
Rating:
- Performance: 5/5
- Design: 5/5
- Price: 3/5
This cold air intake features a lightweight carbon fiber tube and dual 360-degree air filters designed to increase horsepower and torque by channeling cool outside air directly into the engine. It includes premium hardware like stainless steel clamps and silicone bellows for easy installation and durability, though it is not legal for street use in California due to emissions regulations. Dyno testing shows potential gains of up to +12 HP and +10 lbs-ft of torque from this high-flow intake system.
Benefits of Cold Air Intakes For Corvettes
Here are a few key reasons why pulling in cold air is important for your C8 Corvette’s engine performance:
Density – Cold air is more dense than warm air because the molecules are closer together, packing more oxygen per volume. This allows more air/oxygen to enter the engine’s cylinders per intake stroke. More air and fuel means bigger combustion events and more power.
Reduced Risk of Detonation – The denser cold air can handle higher compression ratios and timing advance before abnormal combustion (detonation/knocking) occurs. This allows engines to run more aggressive tune calibrations for maximum power.
Increased Throttle Response – The improved cylinder filling from the higher air density results in faster throttle response and better transient power delivery. The engine can more quickly adjust to changing power demands.
Thermodynamic Efficiency – The cold air brings in more oxygen molecules while minimizing intake air heat. This leads to better thermal efficiency because a cooler air/fuel mixture is more dense when ignited. Lower inlet temperatures keep things cooler all around.
Cold air intakes leverage air density and oxygen content to create bigger power-producing explosions. This allows aggressive engine calibrations while minimizing risks like detonation. For engines like the Corvette LS V8, getting cool outside air instead of hot engine bay air is crucial for big power.
Deciphering Cold Air Intake Specs
The performance of a vehicle is significantly influenced by the specifications of its cold air intake. A solid grasp of these specifications aids in making an informed decision when choosing the suitable intake system for your C8 Corvette. Key factors to consider include:
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Flow capacity
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Air temperature
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Air restriction
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Intake manifold design
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Location and function of the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF Sensor)
All of these factors contribute to the overall performance and air flow of a cold air intake system.
For example, increased horsepower and torque are directly related to the volume of air supplied to the engine. By upgrading to a high-performance cold air intake, you can experience gains of up to 22 horsepower and 16.31 ft-lbs of torque in your C8 Corvette. These improvements result from the optimized design and materials used in aftermarket intake systems, which allow for more efficient airflow and improved combustion.
Filter maintenance is another vital aspect of cold air intake systems. A well-maintained filter not only ensures optimal fuel trims and engine performance but also prolongs the life of your vehicle’s engine. By choosing a cold air intake with a long filter service interval, such as the K&N Performance C8 Corvette Cold Air Intake with its 100,000-mile interval, you can save time and money on maintenance while enjoying the benefits of improved engine performance.
Matching Your C8 Corvette’s Needs
Consideration of your performance goals, budget, and maintenance preferences is key when choosing the appropriate cold air intake for your C8 Corvette.
In the end, your personal needs and priorities are what guide your decision. If you’re seeking top-of-the-line performance and are willing to invest in a higher-priced option, the Corsa Carbon Fiber Closed Box Air Intake may be the perfect choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and are looking for a substantial performance boost without breaking the bank, the K&N Performance C8 Corvette Cold Air Intake might be the ideal solution for you.
Installation Insights For Air Intake Systems
A clear understanding of the installation process of cold air intake systems for the C8 Corvette paves the way for a smoother, more efficient procedure. To ensure your chosen cold air intake system performs optimally and lasts longer, correct installation is indispensable. This is quite the undertaking.
Because of the mid-engine design, this is not an easy install like most cold air intakes are. The rear trunk panels need to be removed completely, which opens up access to the OEM cold air intake.
The most difficult part is going to be installing the left and right intake boots, because of the tight area.
When installing any of these intake systems, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary precautions. Here are some steps to ensure proper installation:
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Secure the Mass Airflow Sensor in the designated location so you can avoid the dreaded check engine light (CEL).
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Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
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Double-check your work to make sure everything is properly installed. Drive your corvette around the block before installing the trunk paneling. This will save you some time should you need to address something else.
Following these steps can help prevent any issues that may arise from incorrect installation.
With the right tools and attention to detail, upgrading your C8 Corvette’s cold air intake system with a direct cai replacement can be a rewarding and performance-enhancing experience.
Corvette C8 ERay and Stingray Cold Air Intake Questions
How does a cold air intake improve performance?
Cold air intakes allow cooler, denser air to enter the engine, resulting in more power and better throttle response.
Will a cold air intake void my warranty with Chevrolet?
Generally no, as long as the cold air intake doesn’t cause any check engine lights or malfunctions in engine performance. It’s best to verify with your Corvette dealer just to be sure, though.
What’s the difference between a short ram and true cold air intake?
Short ram intakes pull hotter air from near the engine, while these cold air intakes draw air from outside the engine via your air intake scoops on the sides of your C8.
How difficult is it to install a cold air intake on a C8 Corvette?
Since the C8 Corvette requires the complete removal of the trunk insert and stock intake box, it’s recommended you let a local, certified, Corvette tech team take this task on.
Do I need a tune with a cold air intake?
It depends. More restrictive intakes may require a tune to realize full gains. Loosely-sealed filters may also benefit from a tune. Please note that tuning will void your Chevrolet warranty.
Will installing a cold air intake make the LT2 engine sound any different?
Sound varies based on materials used. Most add a subtle raspy/inductive tone at wide open throttle.
Is a cold air intake worth the cost?
Cold air intakes are quite expensive for the Corvette C8 Stingray and ERay models. However, a lot of drivers really love this modification to the engine.