IX Exhaust Questions

[dubdub]

I have a 1990 auto IX. After doing some reading on here, I am just confirming what I think I have read.

The exhaust manifolds were the same as regular E30s. The next section is the downpipes and catalytic converter, and that is different from non-IX E30s. From the catalytic converter back, the exhausts are the same as any other non-IX E30.

Is this an accurate assessment? If so, what non-OE options do I have?

[101]

^^ Accurate assessment.

I'm curious about what's out there for the mid section as well - besides having to go custom.

[nando]

that's correct.

any mods to the mid section will have to be custom.

[dubdub]

Part of my asking is because I know I will need some exhaust work at some point, but what I'd like to do is get another set of exhaust manifolds and have them coated, solely for the appearance of the engine. I've never understood the engines that people have that are cleaned to show condition, but have these rusted hunks of iron hanging off the side of the engine.

With an auto, as far as I know, all of the aftermarket header options are out... which is fine, this is just a nice daily driver. Very little performance built into it now.

[nando]

why wouldn't headers work with an automatic?

[dubdub]

It was my understanding that most of them came with disclaimers about not fitting automatics... is that incorrect?

[nando]

I've never heard that - don't know why it would matter. the bellhousings are the same size.