Hi
Got a 2002 320 C class. It was imported from the US, I live in Lebanon, the regulations for emissions are there but not very strict. I hear a rattling sound from under the passeger side. So I took the car to an exhaust shop, he showed me the source, in the rear of the car there are two round catalytic converters, the one on the passenger side is making the noice. He told me that the OEM part is very expensive and I have two other choices.

1- He can remove it and put a steel pipe in it's place, but he did not recommend it.
2- I can use a locally manufactured catalyst in it's place, it would still meet emission regulations and it wont affect the car. Price is acceptable.

I know that the MB part replacement is VERY expensive, and I am thinking about going with choice no 2. Would this affect the car power ? And would it affect fuel consumption ?

Thanks
________
HotHotGirls