borla has a shortie kit with cross over pipe for $500. would i be better off getting like edlebrock or heddman for half the price? what makes them better beside the name?

 

If you don't want to go with the more expensive mid or long tubes, I think they would be a good buy at that price. But yes, you are paying a little more for the name IMO. What you need to do is check and compare the specs. Look at the gauge of steel, primary diameter, and coated or not. I would also suggest using O.E.M. gaskets with whatever you get. Hope that helps a little.