Glen, The side pipes do bend down slightly, maybe 1/4" down but not much. The measurements are 4 1/4" at the end of the pipes. You could jack the car up some to get it through inspection and then lower it afterwords
My pipes are very tight like the originals and I actually enjoyed making them. I'm not a big fan of the under-car exhaust. They're just isn't enough body materials to hide the mufflers. I'd post a pic but I still can't figure that one out yet! PM your email address and I can send you the pics that I have. Regards, Matt