I liked my 2" Proparts headers on my '69 Dart but I think on my next car if I'm gonna run tubes through the fenderwells, may as well run them all through there so an engine diaper will fit easier.
Might be nice to have a couple of pieces of steel welded somewhere to prevent the steering from going lock to lock and hitting the tire.
Best bet is coilover front suspension and custom under-chassis headers but that can get expensive.