> Are these really functional as air scoops or are they merely
> cosmetic?
Scoops DO function to channel air.

> I've always questioned whether any horsepower gained by air scoop ram
> effect could overcome the extra aerodynamic drag created by the
> scoop.
No advantage for this specific type of scoop. It merely cools by moving air
into the cavity. They are too far away to add any benefit to the compression
cycle of the engine. The drag of these scoops is negligible.

NASA has a compendium of data available (reams & reams of books) on ducting.
At certain speeds protruding scoops (as these are) become a detriment and
not a benefit. Has to do with the way the leading edge (lip) closes the
effective size of the opening by its' resistance (a wave forms in front).

If you'll notice current race cars (F1, GT, etc.) you'll see the popular
NACA ducts, which are cut outs in the surface of the vehicle. These are the
most efficient type of cooling openings. The laminar flow along the skin is
channeled through the duct at the full range of velocity, without adding
drag.

Looking at your brick in the car park the air scoops recede into the body,
in the NACA style. There's quite a bit of area open to take in air at a
wider range of speed, whereas a scoops' effective area is reduced (smaller
opening).
There IS some speed range where the scoops are more effective than the
standard opening, but it's probably very narrow (by comparison).