Back in the day, people wrapped headers and some of them cracked or rusted out due to moisture. But keep in mind that back then a lot of cars didn't have extensive splash shields like most cars these days. Instead of a full belly pan, you had a couple of small covers in front. Headers were often exposed. So what was a problem back then may not be a problem now.
And I think all aftermarket downpipes for the N54 are stainless so rust isn't that much of an issue. Other than a little surface rust, SS isn't going to rust through. Unless they use a really low grade.
Coatings are good, but I think the wrap does a better job in terms of heat transfer.
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