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Air Filters and Intakes
And internal combustion engine generates power by taking in air, combining it with the proper amount of fuel, and then burning this mixture. Resulting gases from the burning air and fuel push down the pistons, which in turn rotate the crankshaft, translating into the powering of the car's wheels. With the this extremely simplified model of the car's engine, it would make sense that the more air added to the process, the more gases will be produced, and consequently more power.
An aftermarket air intake exists to allow more air to be drawn into the engine. Most stock air intake systems are fine for their intended purpose, but when you try to get more horsepower, they simply cannot flow enough air. Think of trying to suck a Pepsi through a stir straw (stock intake), and then through a McDonald's straw (aftermarket intake) and you’ll get the general idea.
There are plenty of different air intake designs. They range from simple drop in filters using the stock airbox to complete intake systems. Drop in filters are cheap and can compliment limited mods just fine. Complete air intake systems are more expensive but will generally allow more air into the engine.
Another item to consider this how good the stock intake system is. An Acura NSX air intake does not need much improvement; a mid 80's Toyota will. Generally, we have seen the best results from so-called "Cold air" intakes that draw in air from outside the engine compartment. Of course, these are usually more expensive and more susceptible wet whether.
Source:
Super Street Magazine, November 1998 pg 51