1) To route the cables through the car as they get melted by the downpipe
2) Because by simply extending the shift rod you are efectively lengthening the throw which is no good.
3) because it looks pretty awesome!
Admittedly it does look pretty sweet, I wouldnt put the plasics back though, it looks like a lil rally car with it in hah.
So the main reason being the downpipe is a pain in the ass and melts it, fair shout.
Thanks for clearing that up for me James