Header Sizing Questions - Opinions?

[86Cutlass383SR]

First of all, if this a beaten horse already I'm sorry. But I'll ask anyway.

I just recently had a new 383 built and was pondering if my current headers would be good or if I needed to upgrade what I have, or if I'd really see much differance in upgrading.

I presently have the Hedman 1 5/8" shorty headers. Total length is unknown. Will probably be running 2.5" true duals all the way out to rear bumper.

My engine: 383 with 10-1 compression, AFR 190 (older non-Eliminator unported) with 2.02/1.60, 230/236 .540"/.534" 113* lsa (Comp 280 XFI hyd roller on 1.5 instead of the recommended 1.6) Cam oper range 2000-5000 per Comp Cams. Daily driver with no more than 6000 rpm, more likely 5700-5800 max rpm.

Induction will be TPI based with Accel SuperRam base, runners and plenum, 58mm tb, 30# injectors with adj press regulator, modified MAF and custom chip.

It'll be lucky to even see a chassis dyno in it's lifetime but estimates are between 450-500 hp and torque. Most it's life will be between 2000-4000 rpm cruising down the highway.

Driveline will be 3.42 gears and Aftermarket T56 (.62 6th gear) and 25.7" tire.

Stock weight body (86 Cutlass)

I noticed alot of Schoenfeld's headers don't fit the stock a/c box which I'll retain. Must also fit mechanical clutch linkage.

Would moving up to a long tube header really be beneficial for my usage? Better to go with 1 5/8" or 1 3/4"? I imagine the 1 5/8" but I may be wrong.

I would really need to keep these under the $400 level. If I can get coated for that price, fine. Size, fitment, and function is more priorty than a *purty* finish.

Here's a few long tubes I've been looking at. If anyone has had any experience with these either good or bad, please comment !!!

Hooker Headers 2451 1 5/8" x 30" length painted $159.95 coated $369.95
Patriot Exhaust H8047 1 5/8" x ??? painted $156.95 coated $305.95
Dynatech 01-22000 - Dynatech Stock Clip Headers (?) 1 3/4" x ??? painted $276.95
PaceSetter Performance 72C2100 1 5/8" coated $363.39

Would it be worth going from 1 5/8" shorty headers to 1 5/8" long tubes for a daily-driven cruiser with a bit of playful driving thrown in on occasion?

Any and all thoughts/opinions appreciated. If any vendors deal with any of these, PM me.