Bar & Plate vs. Tube & Fin Intercoolers

[rooSTer]

I wrote this awhile back, figured I share it here. Will be updating this thread when more options are available.

Tube and Fin Intercooler

Pros

• Generally weighs about half as much as a bar and plate core of similar dimensions
• Generally less expensive
• Generally less flow restriction within the core than bar and plate designs
• Allows better flow to the rear of the core and to a radiator

Cons

• Offers less heat rejection than bar and plate
• Generally have more fins which means they're more likely to be damaged by rocks/debris which cuts down on cooling efficiency
• Charge air entry extends beyond core wall making it more difficult for air to enter the core cleanly

Bar and Plate Intercooler

Pros

• Generally has greater heat rejection than tube and fin design
• Generally has more varying shapes and sizes
• Less likely to be damaged by rocks and debris
• Charge air entry sits flush with core allowing for cleaner entry

Cons

• Weighs about twice as much as a similarly size tube and fin core
• More expensive
• Blocks more airflow to radiators, etc. which may be behind it
• Those with turbulators have greater flow resistance to charge air