[on soapbox]

I also want to add:
A bigger MAF makes it harder to get accurate readings at idle. That effects
smog, smoothness, MPG, etc.
People are more than welcome to design a 300mm MAF and intake that is super accurate over the
full range from idle to 1000HP, and is super cheap. Until they do, maybe they shouldn't bash the MAF design choices.
Engineers have to design for the
real world. Many forum posters and ricers seem to design for their own mega screwed up perception of reality.
Also, the analysis and verification tools available from the
design start of the EFI 5.0 (~84) to the sn95 upgrade (~92) are very different. And, the analysis and verification tools available today (2010) are
much different than they were in 92.
Air flow patterns
vary a lot depending on temp, air pressure, amount, etc. The differences between a Fox MAF and an sn95 may look "minor", but they have a huge impact on the air flow pattern.
So, cost, and available air flow analysis where major reasons for a 55mm MAF in a Fox.
[off soapbox]
