BMW Repair: Red Hot Exhaust on 1986 325es, highway speeds, catalytic converter

Question
While following my 1986 325es, I noticed the exhaust system began to glow "red hot," from what appeared to be the catalytic converter (cat), through the middle pipe, and into the muffler.  1) What would cause this?  2) Do you think the cat was "fried" in the process?  Incidentally, after stopping and letting the exhaust cool down, the problem did not occur, even at similar highway speeds.

Answer
Austin,
 Techincally this is how the system is supposed to work.  The matrix of holes gets red hot to help ignite unburnt fuel and keep your emmissions cleaner.

 I dont know that I've seen one glow red hot like that though....

 You could have a clogged cat, and it might be time for replacement.

 Take a look at this... it will explain:
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/catalytic-converter2.htm

 Good luck,
 Josh