The intake changeover looked the same with both ECUs. One thing I didn't notice was if there was a pre-cat on the MP3. That would account for a good bit of exhaust restriction.

Keith

 

Thanks for the info Keith and the MP3 does have a monolith Catalyst just like the P5

 

The exhausts are the same with the exception of the RB muffler on the MP3. The difference on the intake is that there is no VTC (variable tumble control) on the MP3 intake. Hence, only one solenoid on the upper intake plenum on the MP3 instead of the two that all the other cars have. The lower intakes look the same, but since there is no VTC there is no extra restriction in the intakes. I don't know if they just plugged the holes for the VTC or if they cast the lower manifold and just didn't machine it as far as the ES/LX/P5 manifold. I'm going to have the intake off my ES in the next month or so and I'll see what kind of intrusion the VTC makes into the inlet. I'm guessing that removing it would solve a couple problems. It might remove an intake restriction, and it would get rid of that nasty cold start noise.

If the timing control is worth 3 HP, and the RB muffler is worth 2-3HP, then the intake manifold might be the last bit.

 

I think you are right...

I remember reading somewehre that the MP3 picked up 10 hp from the stock ES by a re-programmed ECU, a claimed high flow exhaust, and a re engineered Intake Manifold. I think that was from a Sport Compact Car, that came out before the release of the MP3.

 

Can't wait till my kit arrives in a couple of weeks.