The specs came of a 98-99 3L upper IM that was aluminum.
It has the combined runner (oval shaped) until right at the end where it bolts to the lower IM. There is a divider that makes it into two ports right there at the exit. The 3L lower is almost identical to the 99 SVT lower, except for the fuel rail. As far as better, who can say?
I have mine for sale though if you want to find out...???
I'm also selling the lower IM. That will fit any 2.5L motor and it is equivalent to any of the later SVT lowers.
wamonger