I agree. My experience proves what you said, you just put it down in words.
My experience with a lower restriction intake ( I have 2 ) is better throttle response, which means improved acceleration. But there is no direct correlation with improved FE, IMO. If anything, it harms FE - at least with the lovely feeling of "right-foot-itis" - the power is fun.
Used wisely, one can briskly reach cruising speed, which can contribute to a FE improvement. Again, wisely using the performance capabilities of a vehicle to best FE advantage.
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