Inlet Manifold

[deezee]

I was working out how to make my inlet manifold and the general consensus would be to follow the angle of the inlet ports, then pop an angle in so the carbs sit with the float level. With an ideal total length from end of trumpet to intake valve being around 300mm. However once I allow for the pipercross airfilter (including the slimmer ones) it goes beyond my bonnet line.

I'd rather not have to cut a hole in my bonnet, next to the engine bonnet bulge, 'cos its going to look exceptionally ugly. Is there an easy / affordable way of lowering the carb position without severely affecting performance? I had a look at a recent Zetec picture posted, but copying this would be a PITA.