Actually it is a Mod....You basically are removing a air flow restriction. It's almost the same thing as putting on a true cold air intake. That plus a K&N air filter will make a few extra ponies...not a lot but enough to feel the difference. I personally would NOT suggest going with a Front mount intercooler until your ready for a much bigger Turbo. It'll add to the turbo lag plus if you ever hit ANY thing(car or other items) with the front of your car bye-byer intercooler. just a thought but its YOUR RIDE not mine ...Do it HOW U WANT IT. Best of luck-Big Jay

 

The point in removing the silencer is for a slightly faster spool (250rpm to 500rpm sooner at most). The silencer forces the air to flow thru a maze before it gets to the turbo. It can be considered a mod because most people either modify the silencer or buy an elbow to redirect the air. This way, the air is not comming striaght from the engine bay and still uses the 'ram scoop' item that gets the air from the front of the car.

I would not make the CAI analogy because the true point of one is denser air, not to remove restriction. Plus if you haven't figured it out yet, they're not the best mod for WRX's. :beatentod

 

ROFL :rocks: