If you mean "normal use" as daily driver, rpm's in the lower spectrum, I would say yes.
When I had my LC setup (2.25" version) I noticed a bit of a difference on the highway, mainly because I'm running up around the 3k mark. In town, you're spending time in the 1500 to 2500 range. The stock manifold and down pipes work better in that range, IMHO.
Depending on where the down pipe is cracked will depend on how hard/easy it is. I would say it is actually easier to repair because you don't have to mess with all the nuts/bolts that connect the manifold to the EGR system and head, just the three that connect the manifold to the down pipes.
Currently, my exhaust is welded front to back. The only places it bolts up is at the manifold. Less to worry about here in the rust belt, but it will be more expensive to replace parts when that comes time. Oh well.
Hope this helps,

Todd <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cyclops.gif" alt="" />