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The Honda Prelude has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts for its sporty design and performance capabilities. In this article, we will explore the performance testing of the Honda Prelude when equipped with an AEM Cold Air Intake and an Invidia Exhaust system. We will analyze the gains in horsepower, torque, and overall driving experience.
Understanding the Components
Before diving into the performance testing results, it is essential to understand the components being utilized in this modification. The AEM Cold Air Intake and Invidia Exhaust are popular choices among Honda Prelude owners looking to enhance their vehicle’s performance.
AEM Cold Air Intake
The AEM Cold Air Intake is designed to increase airflow to the engine, which can lead to improved combustion efficiency. By drawing cooler air from outside the engine bay, it replaces the factory air intake system, providing several benefits:
- Increased horsepower and torque.
- Improved throttle response.
- Enhanced engine sound.
Invidia Exhaust System
The Invidia Exhaust system complements the AEM Cold Air Intake by improving exhaust flow. This system is engineered to reduce back pressure and enhance the overall exhaust note, providing a sportier sound. Key benefits include:
- Increased horsepower and torque.
- Weight reduction compared to stock exhaust.
- Improved aesthetics and sound quality.
Performance Testing Methodology
To accurately measure the performance gains from the AEM Cold Air Intake and Invidia Exhaust, a controlled testing environment was established. The following steps were taken during the testing process:
- Baseline testing was conducted on a stock Honda Prelude.
- The AEM Cold Air Intake was installed, followed by a new round of testing.
- The Invidia Exhaust was then added, and final performance testing was conducted.
Baseline Performance Results
Before any modifications, the stock Honda Prelude delivered the following performance metrics:
- Horsepower: 140 hp at 6,300 RPM
- Torque: 130 lb-ft at 5,200 RPM
Results After AEM Cold Air Intake Installation
After installing the AEM Cold Air Intake, the performance metrics showed a noticeable improvement:
- Horsepower: 155 hp at 6,300 RPM
- Torque: 140 lb-ft at 5,200 RPM
This upgrade resulted in a gain of 15 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque, highlighting the effectiveness of the cold air intake in enhancing engine performance.
Results After Invidia Exhaust Installation
Following the addition of the Invidia Exhaust system, further performance improvements were recorded:
- Horsepower: 165 hp at 6,300 RPM
- Torque: 150 lb-ft at 5,200 RPM
The Invidia Exhaust provided an additional gain of 10 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque, bringing the total gains to 25 horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque from the stock configuration.
Driving Experience and Other Considerations
With both modifications installed, the driving experience of the Honda Prelude transformed significantly. Drivers reported:
- Improved acceleration and responsiveness.
- A more aggressive and enjoyable engine sound.
- A noticeable increase in overall performance during both daily driving and spirited driving conditions.
However, it is important to consider potential downsides, such as:
- Increased engine noise may not be suitable for all drivers.
- Potential impact on fuel economy, especially during aggressive driving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the performance testing of the Honda Prelude with the AEM Cold Air Intake and Invidia Exhaust has demonstrated significant gains in horsepower and torque. With a total increase of 25 horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque, these modifications not only enhance performance but also improve the overall driving experience. For Honda Prelude enthusiasts looking to boost their vehicle’s capabilities, these upgrades are a worthy investment.