Assuming the pipercross is a foam type I'd keep the Apexi as it offers far better filtration.
Where do you get that from? just asking
foam is normally thought to be better from what ive been reading across the net.
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My brother is an AIS (Air Inductions Systems) designer of over 20yrs and has design air boxes, inlet manifolds and associated ducting for Aston Martin, Ford, Volvo, Jaguar, Range Rover etc... so I have a little insider info if you like.
Cotton filters (K&N, Green cotton, Apexi) offer the best filtration, paper is not far behind and is far cheaper hence all OE filters are paper, Foam offers the worst filtration but good flow, and as for stainless mesh well.... it's only good for straining your tea !