I know this message technically should go in the "AFTERMARKET" forum, but no one really seems to visit there.

As I explained in this post, I'm constantly looking for ways to make the Brick run just a little better and go just a tad faster. As to that end, first up is a camshaft, and then I'll possibly get a new, larger exhaust system. I think a new header is what would follow those modifications.

Just to get terminology straight, let me explain what I think I mean by a header. From what I understand, the header is the first part of the exhaust system, the multi-part tubing that comes from each of the cylinders in the engine and combines those air flows into one larger pipe that leads to the exhaust. The header connects to the header *pipe,* also known as a front pipe (and currently being replaced on my car), and then the exhaust air goes through the rest of the system. Is that correct?

It's my understanding that high-flow is the key to naturally-aspirated power. No tight bends, smooth, as-straight-as-possible tubing, with a large diameter, would seem to be what I want.

What are my options?

I know Unitek sells a header--that's what Sterndogg02 has on his Brick, to the tune of about $250. I don't have the Unitek catalog (yet) to see if that's still available, but I'm a little hesitant, at this point, to order overseas from a company whose primary language is not English, and that probably will require a more unusual payment type (perhaps wire transfer; I prefer credit cards and cash).

Additionally, he said that the Unitek header he has was from the 300-series. As long as I am certain that something will fit my car without modifications, I will purchase it (re: Volvo truck amber turn signal lenses), but I have to be certain before I will commit.

Are there 200-series aftermarket/performance headers? I think I've heard the B23E (or maybe the B230FX) had a different header than my plain B230F, and that the alternate header is part of the reason those cars could put out around 140 naturally-aspirated horsepower. Sadly, I'm in the southern US, quite far from Canada's B23Es and Europe's B230FXs, so I would probably have to order the (preferably new) part from a Volvo parts company.

Does a performance improvement from a header depend on other factors? For example, I would think that with a stock exhaust, most of the benefit of a better header would be lost. Is my order of upgrading my car a reasonable and safe path?
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'89 244 GL -- 105,XXX miles (see profile for info on car)