I have a question about all the CAIs out there.. assuming all pipes are the same diameter, mendrel bent, and brand names being irrelevant. What are the differences between the polished aluminium intake pipes and the powder coated pipes? The polished pipes look nicer, but how cold will the intake air be, since aluminium conducts heat pretty well and the pipes are placed right next to a hot engine?
Powder coated steel pipes are a tiny bit heavier and not as good looking IMO, but are coated with heat resistant paint.
From a performance standpoint, I would think the powder coated pipes do a better job at keeping the air cold, but the Polished pipes seem to be more popular. Why?
