Lots of vehicles use a duct to get air from outside the engine compartment. You can get the ducting at auto parts stores. Think mid '70s and later, '80s for sure.
While the open element idea seems good, they get dirty quicker due to all the goo thrown at them by the fan, and the PCV needs to function correctly or you will have goo inside the valve covers.
However, there are ways to do the PCV with an open element, and ways to shield the front of the open element. BUT, as you note, no cold air them.