Intercooler choice. Does a more expensive intercooler actually make your car "faster"

[Anees]

Hi guys,

 

With my Aristo, I plan to get to BPU and I would like an intercooler too (for both looks and performance).

 

I am considering the Greddy Type-LS Intercooler that is around £380- £390 delivered. It is a good quality 2 row intercooler.

 

Alternatively I can spend more money can get something like a Blitz intercooler (still 2 row) but this is closer to £600!

 

Now what are the advantage and disadvantages of getting a cheaper intercooler (all be it quality one) over a more expensive one. Basically will the extra money be worth it?

 

What areas of day to day driving will I regret not having spent the extra?

 

I don't really plan to go single at some stage, probably just BPU++

 

Thanks,

Anees

[Gaz6002]

An intercooler alone won't give you any extra power, you will need something to raise the boost a little to compensate for the pressure loss created by the denser air.

[Anees]

I mean say both cars are running 1.2bar BPU etc, one has a cheaper Greddy LS and the other a Blitz intercooler........ any real difference???

[RobSheffield]

No

 

But...

 

 

Ease of fitting, durability, looks, kit 'completeness' etc etc etc

[Gaz6002]

I mean say both cars are running 1.2bar BPU etc, one has a cheaper Greddy LS and the other a Blitz intercooler........ any real difference???

 

Doubtful at that boost level unless one is leaking.

[Anees]

I assume a 3-row is a waste of time at this level then?

[Gaz6002]

I assume a 3-row is a waste of time at this level then?

 

Yup but some get a 3 row to future-proof. Up to you. A 2 row is good up to a mid-sized single turbo

[snake]

where can you buy the greddy Ls for £380?

[Anees]

Are certrain intercoolers more resistant to heat soak? Is this where a 3-row is more benefical?

 

Both Greddy and Blitz seem to be good brand names.

 

Greddy Type LS

http://www.rhdjapan.com/jdm-low/Trust-GReddy-Spec-LS-FMIC-Intercooler-Kit-JZS161-JZA80-2JZ-GTE-54134#

 

HKS Type S

http://www.rhdjapan.com/jdm-low/HKS-Type-S-Intercooler-Kit-14196

 

Don't think there will be much in it regarding fitment.

Edited October 7, 2008 by Anees (see edit history)

[BigDino]

I've got the Greddy LS from Gaz at Envy (free plug) :-) and its a very good kit and easy to fit with plenty of room at the front for the crash bar to go back on etc.

 

Gaz does the Greddy kit which comes with new P/S cooler and bottle etc, good kit and cheap.

[bonus_2000]

I always thought that the more expensive intercoolers had a better core design than some of the cheaper ones. The better the core design, the better the air is going to be cooled, and the denser the inlet charge surely? Obviously if you are going for a branded one, you are safe anyway as they are all pretty good. I used to have an XS Power type intercooler, and changed for a Greddy 4 row when I went single, and of you looked down the end of the intercooler there was quite a difference.