X pipe benefits

Hey Guys, I was wondering if there would be any benefit of installing an x pipe on my car. The engine is a mild build, around 275 horse. It's a 340/373 cube 9.68;1 compression with EQ magnum heads, Hughes cam with 219/228 at .050. I have the HP 340 manifolds and the 340 Accurate 2.25 full dual exhaust with the stock mufflers and stainless tips. I know the exhaust system is really choking the engine down. I was wondering if an x pipe would help with the exhaust flow, maybe a muffler change too.
I really hate the thought of cutting my high dollar exhaust for an x pipe if it's not going to make any noticeable difference in the performance. Headers are a no go too, because I don't want the hassle that go with them.
I have pretty much the same set up with stock manifolds and exhaust. I have to ask.. How do you get 373 cubes? My 340 is 40 over and works out to 346 cubes.