So I decided that I liked the idea of replacing the entire AirBox with a cone filter. I am not sure exactly what this would do performance wise, but it’s certainly cleaner and easier to work on. Is it worth doing? I own a ‘97 Protege LX 1.5L. I prefer not to spend $200-300 on an intake system

 

Cleaner is a relative term, you may like a "cleaner look", but as for the air going into your engine, no, "cleaner" does not apply, in fact, the air going into your engine will be many orders of magnitude "dirtier".

 

You can find something really inexpensive that will be a fun And easy DIY project. It will look nice and you will get to hear the air better going through the intake system Aside from that don't expect much else?