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An often-discussed faux pas in car customization is adding visual enhancements that don’t complement actual performance. Issues like oversized wings on Honda Civics and lift kits on heavy-duty trucks fall into this embarrassing category. With 495 horsepower, C8 Chevrolet Corvette owners might seem immune to such missteps, yet they are not. It appears that they are indulging in the same questionable styles as previous generations, as there’s an apparent trend of enthusiasm for fake velocity stacks.
I first noticed this unfortunate trend through a Facebook Marketplace ad showcasing a C8 engine cover that an enterprising seller in Florida has transformed to resemble a set of velocity stacks. These trumpet-shaped tubes are typically found atop high-performance naturally aspirated engines, often paired with independent throttle bodies. When properly tuned, they enhance throttle response and optimize air flow, resulting in a power increase akin to forced induction. Plus, they produce an incredible sound—it’s no wonder someone would want to mimic ITBs and stacks on their ride. Or at least, to trick others into thinking they have them.
However, this is not a customization I consider worth faking, especially given the poor execution visible in some examples. The aforementioned listing features what appears to be an engine cover crafted from a flattened Nerf gun, piled with four dual exhaust tips that lack the flared design of genuine stacks, resembling open headers instead. It seems we’ve stumbled upon the participation trophy of naturally aspirated performance—which undoubtedly ended up with someone who frequently complains about such trophies in their Facebook posts.
Incredibly, this abomination sold, likely fetching close to its listed price of $950. There appears to be a genuine market for these faux parts, as I found at least three other fake independent throttle body engine covers available online. Two of these are produced by a company called March Performance, which offers “retro style stacked injection engine covers,” obtainable from websites like C6Performance.net and C8Motorsports.com (under the same ownership).
These replicas are crafted from aluminum and finished with stainless steel mesh or carbon fiber. One version resembles a faux carburetor air cleaner, while another appears as if it’s connected to an intake manifold that was shrunk in the wash. It’s akin to bringing an AI-generated engine image to physical form. Frankly, I could make a fool of myself at a car show for free; there’s no need for me to pay between $995 and $1,495 for the privilege.
To add insult to injury, I uncovered one more instance on eBay. This listing features stainless steel throttle bodies that are not even attached properly; they are simply taped onto the engine cover, reminiscent of those stick-on AutoZone vents that were so popular years ago. The seller claims this modification “draws crowds,” but likely not the kind of attention you would want.
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