Nope it's actually a 2 pieces of BILLET STEEL with MACHINED RUNNERS that are WELDED Together.
You're going to have a hard time finding ANY manifold that has such smooth and straight runners... I got my prototype on ebay... 80$... I don't use it, my setup's done... I just bought it to study the design, and maybe modify it for a future twin scroll setup.
My versions weighs 20lbs and looks a LOT heavier than the production version which probably wights about the same as a cast manifold. A standard cast turbo manifold weighed 17, and an SSAC weighed around 12... We compared them when we did MikeD16z6's new turbo setup.
Compared with a tubular or cast manifold, here's my assesment:
Pro's:
- Precision machined runners and collector make for minimal bends, and maximum velocity to minimize lag.
- No tubing misalignment issues
- No casting imperfections
- very sturdy and very little risk of cracking.
Cons:
- Cost - I bet it's over 400$
- VS. a tubular manifold, this is NOT Equal length so it will flow less at high RPM's. (UNLESS they did a flow analysis and modified the runner diameters to equalize the exhaust pulses which would help reduce the flow issues that they inherently face with a non EL design...)
A lot of you guys make assumptions and jump on bandwagons just by looking at pictures with no actual knowledge... :TD:
Props to those that can think outside the box and come out with truly innovative ideas.