I have always been partial to chrome plating. I think there is nothing that comes near the eye-catching shine that chrome offers. Yes they will yellow slightly toward the header end, but I have had mine in use for a little over a year now and they still look great. The discoloration is really a "goldish" tint on the four individual pipes before they connect to one. If they get too dark there are products you can purchase that remove some of the discoloration.
Personally, I think the color change gives the side pipes some character. As far as rust, no problem there either. My car is garaged and I keep the pipes waxed and clean.
BTW, my side pipes were chromed before they were shipped to me by Shell Valley.
