323i exhaust

[xavier]

Can someone explain why the 323i E30 exhaust splits in two after the down pipe and then comes back together at the back box? Also if the exhaust manifold is on the right hand side why does the exhaust exit the back of the car on the left hand side?
Also I have the early exhaust manifold with the crap little pipes that lead back into the intake. I know they are meant to reduce emissions, but as they burnt out and fell off 20 years ago they do nothing but attempt to kill me with CO fumes. I had my son weld up the holes they had left . Has anyone tried fitting the later manifold? It does not have the silly emission holes and has a four bolt (and thus more effective) connection to the exhaust downpipe. After tarting up and skimming the original manifold it is still not great. I feel like replacing everything from the motor back. I have later 325i E30 (4 stud)exhaust manifold in the shed.

[SGP]

I'm guessing the exhaust pipe comes out on the off-side because in Germany etc. the pipe would be further away from the sidewalk, ( less chance of poisoning pedestrians )
Not familiar with the 323i exhaust system but I'm sure an upgrade would be straightforward.