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Thursday, September 25, 2025

Skunk2 Pro Series Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX Intake Manifold (Race Only) SKU: SKK307-06-0500

 

Skunk2 Pro Series Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX Intake Manifold (Race Only) SKU: SKK307-06-0500

Skunk2 Pro Series Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX Intake Manifold (Race Only) SKU: SKK307-06-0500

Skunk2 Pro Series Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX Intake Manifold (Race Only) SKU: SKK307-06-0500

Below is a detailed breakdown / critical appraisal of the claimed and plausible advantages of the Skunk2 Pro Series Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX Intake Manifold (Race Only) — SKU SKK307-06-0500. 

Some claims are manufacturer-driven and should be scrutinized.

Key design claims & advantages

From product descriptions and vendor literature, here are the main features and advantages claimed for this Skunk2 manifold:


Feature / Design Element

Claimed Advantage

Comments / Scrutiny

Larger bore / OEM-length runners + tapered design

Improved airflow (especially at higher RPM) while retaining midrange power

This design philosophy aims to avoid the classic tradeoff of big plenum, short runners which often loses midrange torque. The OEM-length runners help preserve midrange response.

Larger, tapered plenum

Better air charge acceleration and increased volumetric efficiency at high rpm

The plenum acts as a buffer; a well-designed plenum can help reduce pulsation losses and improve high rpm breathing. The tapered shape presumably helps guide flow more smoothly.

Thicker casting / more material for porting

More margin for aggressive porting, structural rigidity

The thicker walls allow safe material removal during porting or matching to head ports without risking structural weakness.

Matched runner exits, hand-finished machining

Reduced flow losses, smoother transitions, better sealing

Matching the manifold ports to the cylinder head reduces turbulence and losses. Hand finish helps reduce sharp edges or mismatch areas.

Wave scavenging / tuning effects

Increased usable power across a broader RPM band (especially in the engine optimal range)

By properly sizing runner lengths, diameters, and plenum volume, one can harness pressure wave effects (intake pulses) to help cylinder filling at chosen RPM ranges.

Bolt-on design (reuse of stock throttle body location / piping)

Simplifies installation; avoids major plumbing changes

Because it retains the factory throttle body location and port positions for many accessories, it lowers the barrier to installation.

Additional vacuum / boost accessory ports (1/8 NPT)

Flexibility for boost controllers, gauges, and vacuum devices

This gives users extra ports for plumbing without needing to tap or adapt elsewhere.

Performance gains claims (e.g. ~33+ whp with matching parts)

Significant top-end gains while retaining usable midrange

Skunk2 themselves promote peak gains as high as 33+ whp when paired with Pro Series Throttle Body.

Manufactured quality: shell molding, 356 aluminum, vacuum tested

Strong, reliable construction; leak resistance

The quality of castings and internal finish helps longevity, consistency, and performance.


Realistic benefits & caveats

While the design is promising, here is what to realistically expect (and what to be cautious of) when using this for a Mitsubishi Evo VII/VIII/IX:

Benefits you may see

  1. Improved high-RPM breathing
    The larger bore, optimized plenum, and tuned runner geometry may allow higher airflow at elevated RPMs, enabling more power near the top end.
  2. Broader usable powerband
    Because they deliberately retained runner length and tapered geometry, the midrange shouldn’t suffer excessively (compared to extreme “race” manifolds). Many users report decent response down low.  
  3. Better gains when combined with supporting mods
    The manifold’s advantage is likely maximized when paired with a matching throttle body, porting, cam / turbo / head flow capacity — it won’t magically double performance by itself.
  4. Tuning flexibility / future modifications
    Thick casting + extra ports + ability to match to bigger throttle bodies or do modifications gives headroom for further upgrades.
  5. Improved component aesthetics / quality
    Better finish, stronger materials, and designed for performance builds, which may outlast stock components under demanding use.

Key caveats and potential drawbacks

  • “Race Only” designation
    The SKU is labeled “Race Only,” meaning it may not be legal for street use in many jurisdictions (emissions / certification). Performance gains may come at the cost of compliance or durability in street conditions.
  • Not a silver bullet — limited by upstream/downstream constraints
    The intake manifold is only one link in the airflow chain. Gains will depend on how well the head, turbo, intercooler, intake piping, and tuning all match.
  • Possible loss of low-end torque if improperly matched / tuned
    If the manifold is too large or optimized for very high rpm, a mismatch could soften response or torque in the lower band.
  • Greater need for careful tuning
    To fully exploit the gains, tuning is crucial. Improper fueling, timing, or boost control can negate advantages or even worsen drivability.
  • Weight, heat soak, and latent thermal effects
    Even though cast aluminum is good, larger castings heat up and retain heat differently, which could influence intake temps under high load.
  • Cost vs. marginal returns
    Depending on how restrictive the stock manifold is, the jump in power might not justify the expense unless the rest of the system is also upgraded.

Conclusion

The Skunk2 Pro Series Intake Manifold (SKK307-06-0500) is a high-quality aftermarket manifold with thoughtful design features aimed at improving performance, especially at higher RPMs, while trying to preserve midrange behavior. 

Its thicker casting, well-finished port matching, flexible upgradeability, and extra ports for accessories make it a strong option for serious builds.

That said, the real-world benefits will heavily depend on how the rest of your engine and induction system is spec’d and tuned. 

If you have supporting mods (higher capacity turbo, strong head flow, tuned ECU), this manifold can be a compelling upgrade. For a more mild or stock setup, gains may be modest.


BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders - BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4

 

BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders - BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4

BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders - BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4

BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders - BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4

BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders - BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4


Here are several advantages of upgrading to BP Design Carbon Fiber Front Fenders for the BMW G80 M3 & G82/G83 M4:

Performance & Functional Advantages

  1. Weight Reduction
    Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than the factory steel/aluminum fenders. Less unsprung mass and reduced front-end weight improves acceleration, braking, and especially handling responsiveness.  
  2. Improved Aerodynamics
    These fenders are often designed to better manage airflow around the wheel wells, reducing drag or directing airflow more favorably. This helps at higher speeds, enhances stability, and can even aid cooling.  
  3. Enhanced Cooling / Heat Dissipation
    Depending on the design (some with vents or optimized contours), carbon fiber fenders can help reduce buildup of heat in the wheel well and engine bay or reduce turbulent air under the hood, which assists cooling of brakes, suspension components, etc.  

Aesthetic & Styling Advantages

  1. Aggressive, Race-inspired Look
    Carbon fiber parts, especially genuine pre-preg or dry carbon with quality finishing, add visual appeal. The weave and gloss finish give a premium, performance-oriented look that OEM steel typically can’t match.  
  2. OEM+ Fitment
    These fenders are engineered to fit the G80/G82/G83 lines closely, which means less modification is required, better alignment, and clean integration with the rest of the body.  

Durability & Long-Term Benefits

  1. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
    Carbon fiber has a strong structural strength relative to its weight. This means that while being lighter, it still maintains rigidity and resistance to certain stresses. Good brands will use premium carbon (e.g. pre-preg or dry carbon) and incorporate UV-protectant clear coats to help resist yellowing or degradation.  
  2. Potential Increase in Resale / Show Value
    For enthusiasts or collectors, well-finished carbon components are seen as premium upgrades. If they’re well-maintained, they can add to the car’s appeal. This is especially true if the rest of the build is coherent (wheels, aero, engine mods, etc.).

Trade-offs & Considerations (for balance)

While there are many advantages, it’s also good to be aware of possible downsides, so you can decide if this mod is worth it for your goals:

  • Cost is high, particularly genuine carbon fiber.
  • Carbon can be more brittle under certain impacts (rocks, minor collisions).
  • Must ensure proper finish (clear coat, UV protection) to avoid yellowing or fading.
  • Installation may need more precision; sometimes professional fitting is recommended. 


DM Style Carbon Fiber Body Kit - Lamborghini Huracan LP 610

 

DM Style Carbon Fiber Body Kit - Lamborghini Huracan LP 610

DM Style Carbon Fiber Body Kit - Lamborghini Huracan LP 610

DM Style Carbon Fiber Body Kit - Lamborghini Huracan LP 610


Here are several advantages of installing a DM Style Carbon Fiber Body Kit on a Lamborghini Huracán LP610. 

Some are general carbon-fiber benefits, others are specific to a kit like the DM Style. If you want, I can also give you the trade-offs.

Key Advantages

  1. Weight Reduction
    Carbon fiber is much lighter than traditional materials (steel, aluminum, etc.). By replacing heavier OEM body panels (bumper lips, side skirts, diffusers, wings) with carbon fiber, you reduce unsprung and overall vehicle weight, which helps improve acceleration, handling, braking.  
  2. Improved Aerodynamics & Downforce
    The DM Style kit typically includes aerodynamic components — front splitter / lip, side skirts, rear diffuser, and large rear wing. These are designed to reduce drag and increase downforce at high speeds, which enhances stability and grip during cornering or at high speeds.  
  3. Aesthetic Enhancement / Aggressive Styling
    The visual impact is significant. A carbon fiber “weave” finish adds a premium, high-performance look. The DM Style kit tends to give the Huracán a more aggressive, muscular stance and makes it stand out more. This is not just about looks — in the car enthusiast world, appearance also contributes to perceived value.  
  4. Durability / Resistance to Corrosion
    Carbon fiber is resistant to rust and corrosion (unlike steel). It holds up well against moisture, road salts, etc. Also, when properly finished (clear coat, UV protection), it resists fading and degradation from sunlight. This contributes to longer life of the body components.  
  5. Better Material Strength-to-Weight Ratio
    Even though carbon fiber is light, it is very strong, especially in tension. The parts can handle aerodynamic stress (air pressure, vibration) better without flexing as much, which helps maintain the designed shape under load (important for wings, splitters, etc).  
  6. Higher Perceived Value / Exclusivity
    Upgrading with a well-made carbon fiber body kit (especially from a recognized “style” like DM) adds to the prestige of the car. It may increase desirability in car shows or among collectors = you might retain more resale value (assuming quality installation).  
  7. Customization
    The DM kit allows customizing how aggressive the appearance and aero is: you can opt to have the wing, diffuser, lip pieces, etc. This flexibility means you can balance between street use and occasional track use. The kit’s parts are meant to work together so the look is coherent.  

Monday, September 22, 2025

POWER CRAFT FULL TITAN HYBRID EXHAUST MUFFLER SYSTEM BLACK UPPER TAIL FOR LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR SVJ ULTIMAE P-LA1040104-BKUPT

 

POWER CRAFT FULL TITAN HYBRID EXHAUST MUFFLER SYSTEM BLACK UPPER TAIL FOR LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR SVJ ULTIMAE P-LA1040104-BKUPT

POWER CRAFT FULL TITAN HYBRID EXHAUST MUFFLER SYSTEM BLACK UPPER TAIL FOR LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR SVJ ULTIMAE P-LA1040104-BKUPT

Here’s the POWER CRAFT FULL TITAN HYBRID EXHAUST MUFFLER SYSTEM BLACK UPPER TAIL (model P-LA1040104-BKUPT) for the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ / Ultimae, along with some things to consider (cost, specs, fitment). 

What it is?

  • It’s a full-titanium hybrid exhaust muffler system with a black upper tail.  
  • The system uses SUS #442 to SUS #304 stainless steel in sections (for parts not titanium).  
  • Spec dimensions: around 50Φ / 60Φ (i.e. piping diameters) for parts of the system.  
  • Accessories include a remote control kit for the exhaust valves.  
  • It retains the genuine catalyst (“with genuine catalyst / rear muffler only”) in its base version. Some versions offer a “racing straight catalyzer” which bypasses or changes the catalytic set-up.  

Price & market availability

  • In Japan (Power Craft official pricing): the Full Titan version (genuine catalyst, rear muffler only) is listed as ¥1,430,000 JPY.  
  • Be aware: higher cost if you choose the Racing Straight Catalyzer version, or change tail types, etc.  

Fitment & options

  • Designed to fit Lamborghini Aventador SVJ / Ultimae (especially LP770-4 / LP780-4 variants).  
  • There are four tail styles available:
    1. Black Upper Tail
    2. Blue Tail
    3. Matt Black Tail
    4. Titan / Matt Titan Tail
      (Plus genuine tail versions).  
  • You’ll need to choose the tail style you want. The “Black Upper Tail” version is more expensive, due to special finish.  


SURFACE TRANSFORMS KOENIGSEGG CCXR FRONT DISCS SKU: ST-A-1175

 

SURFACE TRANSFORMS KOENIGSEGG CCXR FRONT DISCS SKU: ST-A-1175

SURFACE TRANSFORMS KOENIGSEGG CCXR FRONT DISCS SKU: ST-A-1175

Here are the advantages of the Surface Transforms Koenigsegg CCXR Front Discs (SKU: ST-A-1175), based on specs and claims by Surface Transforms and their dealers. Key Advantages

  1. Reduced Weight / Lower Unsprung Mass
    • Four of these carbon-ceramic discs weigh about 20 kg, which is about 40% of what four standard iron discs weigh. This is a large saving.  
    • Lower unsprung weight improves handling, responsiveness, suspension performance, and ride quality. It reduces inertia of rotating parts.  
  2. Improved Heat Management and Thermal Conductivity
    • The discs use a proprietary carbon-ceramic material called CCST. It is made using continuous carbon fibre interwoven in a 3D matrix, rather than chopped / discontinuous fibre.  
    • This leads to higher heat conductivity, allowing better dissipation of heat during heavy braking, thus reducing the operating temperature of the braking system. Lower temperature reduces risk of fade.  
  3. Longer Lifespan / Durability
    • Because of the material & construction, these discs are much more resistant to wear, thermal degradation, etc.  
    • Surface Transforms offers a refurbishment service: the discs can be refurbished up to three times. This extends usable life significantly.  
    • For many users, the discs may last the lifetime of the car under typical road + track usage.  
  4. Performance Improvement (Braking Feel, Modulation, Fade Resistance)
    • Strong initial bite, better modulation and control under heavy braking (especially useful on the track) are claimed.  
    • Cooler running discs → less thermal fading.  
  5. Reduced Brake Dust and Cleaner Operation
    • Carbon-ceramic materials tend to produce much less brake dust than conventional iron discs, both because they wear more slowly and because the wear particles are different.  
    • Less corrosion / oxidation vs iron discs.  
  6. Strength, Structural Integrity
    • The continuous carbon 3D matrix gives a stronger, more durable disc under thermal & mechanical stresses.  
  7. Better Maintaining Performance Over Repeated Use
    • Because of the durability, less risk of warping, cracking or distortion under repeated or high-stress (track/spirited driving) conditions.
    • Refurbishment helps maintain flatness, tolerances, performance over time.  
  8. Cost Efficiency Over Long Term (for High Use Cases)
    • Although the upfront cost is high, over time with refurbishment and longer lifespan the cost per mile / per braking event can be lower.  
    • Also the reduction in replacement frequency vs standard or even OEM carbon-ceramic may make these economical for someone using the car heavily.


VR PERFORMANCE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R MK7 | 7.5 VALVETRONIC EXHAUST SYSTEM SKU: VR-VWMK7R-170S

 

VR PERFORMANCE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R MK7 | 7.5 VALVETRONIC EXHAUST SYSTEM SKU: VR-VWMK7R-170S

VR PERFORMANCE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R MK7 | 7.5 VALVETRONIC EXHAUST SYSTEM SKU: VR-VWMK7R-170S

Here are some technical advantages of the VR Performance Valvetronic Exhaust System (SKU: VR-VWMK7R-170S) for the Volkswagen Golf R MK7 / 7.5, based on its specs and design. 

Key Technical Advantages

  1. Increased Flow & Reduced Restriction
    • The system uses 2.5-inch (≈63.5 mm) mandrel-bent tubing which is larger than many stock exhaust systems. This larger diameter helps reduce backpressure, allowing exhaust gases to exit more freely.  
    • Mandrel bending ensures smooth curves (no sharp kinks), which preserves exhaust gas velocity and minimizes turbulence.  
  2. Sound Modulation (Valvetronic Functionality)
    • It includes integrated valves (valvetronic) which allow switching between quieter / more refined exhaust modes (valves closed) and loud / aggressive ones (valves open) on the fly. This gives flexibility: quieter for normal driving, louder when pushing.  
    • Because of this, you can tailor exhaust tone & volume per driving conditions (e.g. daily driving vs spirited drives) without needing to change the exhaust itself.  
  3. High-Quality Materials & Durability
    • Constructed from 304 stainless steel tubing, which has good resistance to heat, corrosion, and fatigue, resulting in better longevity compared to cheaper materials.  
    • Lightweight design (~52 lb total) helps reduce weight over stock, which contributes (albeit modestly) to better vehicle dynamics (less mass, better handling) and less stress on supporting mounts.  
  4. Fitment & OEM-Like Integration
    • Designed using 3D scanning and CAD modelling to ensure the exhaust system matches and fits correctly to the Golf R MK7 / 7.5 chassis and bodywork without the need for modification. This reduces installation complications and helps maintain build quality.  
    • “No modification is required for installation” according to the product description.  
  5. Performance & Efficiency Gains
    • By reducing restriction, improving flow, the engine can expel exhaust gases more efficiently. This can help with turbo spool, reduce exhaust gas temperatures, and improve overall thermal efficiency.
    • Better flow can also help reduce pumping losses and improve torque in certain RPM ranges (especially high RPMs) where stock exhaust becomes restrictive.
  6. Weight Savings
    • As noted, lighter construction (52 lb) compared to many heavier stock units or competing exhaust systems. Lower weight helps in several ways: reduces unsprung / rotating mass (if parts are nearer wheels or tips), helps acceleration, braking, and fuel efficiency (slightly).  
  7. User-Experience & Customizability
    • Quiet mode (valves closed) helps in avoiding noise regulation issues, reduces drone on highway cruising, more comfortable for daily commuting.
    • Sport / loud mode (valves open) gives that aggressive exhaust note more appealing for performance driving.
    • Because of this, the system is more versatile than a fixed loud exhaust.