94 e320 Wagon Exhaust alternatives to OEM

[Bob Weir]

What alternatives are there to OEM?

Situation:
Muffler [a] mounted parallel to and behind bumper on wagon. Mine is good.
Muffler [b] [mid ships] is rusted out where pipe enters it from rear. I doubt it's fixable.
CAT is probably OEM. Longevity is questionable, especially innee and outee pipes.
PA state emissions require all emissions components be installed, but no actual emissions test for pre 96 and only ONE muffler is required.
Friendly & creative muffler / exhaust shop has pipe bender and can custom make almost anything, prices are very reasonable.

Questions
1] Can I use a non OEM CAT? Catalog pictures show much shorter CAT and longer piping than mine. If so, any recommendations?
2] What adverse / beneficial affect [if any] will elimination of mid ships muffler have?
A louder exhaust note is acceptable. As in "mid life crises" and missing my BLMC toys of yester year.

All suggestions / comments are appreciated.

If I left out any data, I'm sure you'll let me know. Spring is here in the NE US - gotta love it!!!