A mild steel header can be manufactured for $800. If you don't understand why stainless is a superior material, look to the OEM's. This has nothing to do with horsepower levels or tone. The original question was if a header can be built for $800. Your lack of understanding in fabrication and metalurgy is painfully obvious.
I understood the question. You can make mild steel headers for 800 bucks, BUT THERE'S NO PROFIT! So why do it?
I understand why oem uses stainless, IT DOESN'T RUST OUT.
Lack of understanding in fabrication and metalurgy???? WOW!
How many race cars, hot rods, or street rods have you built lately?
If it's possible to make a mild steel header for 800 bucks, why aren't you making them?