8 replies to this topic

[087dave]

Hi all , which is better for a stage 1 kit , a cone shaped( K+N) or a replacement air filter element (K+N) to fit in
air box

Thanks

[SA MINI]

I've got a cone on mine & in my honest opinion I would say an air box might be better with k& n element & a few extra intake holes to the air box.
My k&n sucks in a lot of hot air from the manifolds. But does sound lovely with a nice roar when I drive hard. That's the way I like it

[BritishRacingGreen]

depends on your definition of 'better'

the cone will give you more bhp (we're talking 1, maybe 2 more, nothing you're going to feel..) but makes a lot more noise which you'll hear in the cabin. the element filter is much quieter, but doesn't give as good ariflow.

[andy159]

but the modified air box with added air intakes should almost be as good as the cone filter minus the extra noises

[Minilover1.3]

The cone type is VERY LOUD!! So unless u like sore ears or have good soundproofing of your bonnet and bulkhead, id stick to the element in the box. I had both and tested both. The difference in power is def not noticable! But element lot nicer on the ears :)

[racingbob]

if you got the money get the MED one its about £90 but worth it and not noisey

[Cerberus]

I think I found that the cone filter gave more power at the top end, but when I switched back to a standard filter (with standard element and no extra holes at the moment) that I had more torque at the lower end.

Might just be in my imagination though, , was certainly quieter. Cone was deafening at a steady 60mph.

[AVV IT]

depends on your definition of 'better'

the cone will give you more bhp (we're talking 1, maybe 2 more, nothing you're going to feel..) but makes a lot more noise which you'll hear in the cabin. the element filter is much quieter, but doesn't give as good ariflow.

From what I understand the cone filter giving better flow and performance is just a myth, all it actually provides is more noise. I'm pretty sure that there has been a direct comparison test between the two and the element version actually came out marginally on top, with the best flow/performance being achieved by also drilling a series of six 1/2" holes in the front wall of the air filter housing/box. Which may be why the best stage one kits (such as those supplied by Somerford and Minispares), are equipped with the the element filter, as opposed to the cone version that tends to be supplied with the cheap and cheerful kits from the other classic mini suppliers.

Edited by AVV IT, 27 December 2012 - 09:55 PM.

[dave-88_123]

cone filters really need a stub stack to work well otherwise the flow into the carb is compromised a modified airbox and element work well and and give good results