First of all, glad to find a huge group of peeps with apparently the same interest, and a lot more than I have.

1) Looking to start modifying my '03 CL-S 6spd for performance, its starting to feel a little slower. Advice on cold air intake / exhaust / headers? Is each worth it, notice anything with each / any?

2) Just got new tires (Avon M500) from Tire Rack on same rims, had local place install and balance. Have since had a 1-2 mpg drop in mileage and the car seems to feel like its dragging. Anyone have similar problem after departing from stock tires or after balancing?

Much appreciated.

 

Welcome . Expect to spend a lot of time here.

As for mods....The only headers currently available for the 6 speed are Comptechs. They're pricy, but worth it. Check out www.comptechusa.com.

There are 2 different intake. AEM makes a cold air intake. This one has a nice low growl, especially in VTEC. The Icebox that Comptech makes look more stock and there is only a slightly louder sound. I had both and I like the Icebox a lot more.

There are a couple different exhaust systems out there.

If you're completely stock, I would consider a drop ASAP. Comptech or H&R sport seems to be the popular non-coilover choices.

Good luck, and enjoy. Post some pics of the ride.

 

As for mods....The only headers currently available for the 6 speed are Comptechs. They're pricy, but worth it. Check out www.comptechusa.com.

There are 2 different intake. AEM makes a cold air intake. This one has a nice low growl, especially in VTEC. The Icebox that Comptech makes look more stock and there is only a slightly louder sound. I had both and I like the Icebox a lot more.

Did you notice a performance difference with either? Drawbacks? I don't think I am interested in a huge sound difference, more performance. Just a little something is prolly all I need.

 

For the most part....

Sound = AEM > Comptech

Performance = Comptech > AEM

The actual difference in performance between the two is very small, but the Comptech is noticeably quieter.

 

Correct. The other thing I like about the Comptech is that it is easier to maintain, since the filter is inside the engine compartment. You don't have to go under the car to remove the filter as with the AEM. And I almost hydrolocked my engine once and didn't want to deal with it again. The AEM is inches from the ground. A little water and you could be fawked. The Comptech is safer from this standpoint.

 

I have had the AEM for a long time and no problems, i think it is worth it to get the AEM, the sound is incredible!!!!!

 

Honda Civic AEM intake noise in a $30k Acura =

Performance and safety > sound

 

The sound of the AEM is totally different from any Civic. You should know that Steve. AEM sounds definitely mean, I have no complaints about it.

 

I know I just prefer to pass people before they hear me coming

 

I know I just prefer to pass people before they hear me coming

LMAO mr. steve

 

The tires could be stickier and will need a few thousand miles to wear a little and then you'll get back up to mileage. I dropped a few MPG when I got my 3rd set of tires and after a few thousand (15k) I am now up to the 26-32mpg mark again.

 

also check the inflation...if they are under or over inflated your mileage will lower

 

Tomorrow morining i'm off on a 500mile round trip, i SHOULD be able to make it all on a full tank. i've a 01 CLS

 

When i fly by my friends they dont know how to describe the sound of our cars, the only thing they say is that it sounds indredible. You can always tell when a 4 banger goes by but AEM on our car sounds nothing like a car.

 

To each their own... I just don't like the sucking and slurping sounds it makes at low speeds plus the fear of hydrolock.

Safety & Performance > Noise

 

I'm with you Steve. But also remember - we went SC because of being Performance Minded.