Springs vs coilovers

Spooky_Neo · Sep 25, 2009, 07:06 AM

We all know coilovers are better compared to springs. I'm a daily driver all the time, but I like to push my car. I'm planning getting it on the track next summer to have some fun with it and learn more about driving technique.

Since May, I have the Tein S-Tech mixed with the OEM struts. I saw a great difference in the driving, and the car looks better*. I was very pleased and I still am.

The reason why I'm starting this thread is because I might have a very good deal on used Tein Basic Coilovers, and someone is willing to buy my S-Tech. So I could swap for nearly brand new struts and springs, compared to my 55k km struts. I don't think that my current struts are done, but I'm wondering if the Coilovers will help my ride to be more confortable. This is the only negative point about the S-Tech, they are stiff. If I get the same driving experience with a coilover + the ride is more confortable, that would be great.

One thing I do like about the coilovers, is that they are ajustable. Could be really useful here in Quebec during winter. I could raise up my ride for winter and lower it for summer.

So, how comfortable are the coilovers compare to the the S-Tech ? And how long will the coilovers last compared to the OEM struts and springs ?

Thanks !

Neo

MadPatter · Sep 27, 2009, 05:58 PM

Coilovers will be stiffer than the S-tech springs, especially if you're planning to get the Tein Basic Dampers. Also, keep in mind that every time you raise and lower the car your alignment is thrown off. You'll need to get an alignment done every time you change the ride height.

If you're going for comfort though, stick with lowering springs or get a much better set of coilovers than the Basic Dampers.

Spooky_Neo · Sep 27, 2009, 08:30 PM

What do you suggest as coilovers ? There isn't much for our car...the only 2 others I got in mind are BC Racing and Megan.

rongdoer · Oct 2, 2009, 11:47 AM

you may as well stick with just springs if you dont plan on getting the coilovers set up properly, and even then, a track set-up isn't a dd setup. To say that coilovers are better then springs is probably like saying trucks are better then cars.

Joyrider · Oct 3, 2009, 07:56 AM

I do own BC coilovers (inverted) and the ride is more comfortable then OEM suspension..... for sure big bumps are stiffer but the overall ride quality is better.

MadPatter · Oct 4, 2009, 02:45 PM

BC was my plan as well, until I ended up deciding to go back to school. Now that I'm a student, price plays a larger role, and I wanted to go to a smoother ride. I have KYB struts (RA setup) w/Swift springs on their way to my place in a few days, and will have them installed shortly after. Oh, and currently I'm riding on Megans. I'll let you know how it is if you want.

sway311 · Oct 28, 2009, 02:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MadPatter

keep in mind that every time you raise and lower the car your alignment is thrown off. You'll need to get an alignment done every time you change the ride height.

i've always thought that u wont need an alignment when u adjust the coilover since ur just moving upward & downward, but its good to know

lancerguy0208 · Nov 15, 2009, 04:20 PM

Coilovers all the way. You can customize the handling, ride height, and ride quality aspects with coilovers. An alignment is recommended with any suspension upgrade that results in a change of ride height because it throws the geometry off.