Aftermarket suspension

[CarHabit]

I’m researching getting a suspension upgrade. At the same time, I’ll fit new bushes (plus any control arms, bearings, top mounts, etc if they’re looking past their best)

I need to do some research as there’s no try-before-you-buy opportunity with suspension components. The challenge will be that it’s somewhat subjective, significantly influenced by how well setup the new components are and it’s difficult to compare like with like with other peoples’ experience. Nonetheless I’ll give it a go

The brands I’m aware of are
- Bilstein
- Eibach
- KW
- Koni
- H&R
- Exe-tc


Any opinions on the above very welcome. As are other brands you’re aware of or have experience of

The watchwords are: “road compliancy”, “standard ride height”. Not “lowered” or “track”

Thank you

[HustleRussell]

What do you want to achieve with the upgrade?

[anonymous-user]

I would head to the owners forums and ask around. I have tried Ohlins, Intrax and Bilsteins and like them all. But it all depends on useage and budget. Also, make sure you find someone who understands and knows how to set them up.

[GreenV8S]

All those suppliers will have a range of products with different features and prices. The brand alone doesn't tell you how well it will work or whether it represents good value for money to you.

[HM-2]

What car is it? Many marques have smaller specialists (like Birds for BMW) who combine shocks and springs by one of the above, or sometimes a custom designed solution, in order to meet various criteria.

For off-the-sheft products on UK roads, KW Street Comfort take some beating IMO.

[CarHabit]

I’ve got a merc c63 on a ‘14 plate

I’d like to make the suspension more compliant. Comparing the c63 against my 911 ‘T’, the Porsche rides much better over broken road, yet doesn’t wallow. Clearly the Porsche is newer and it’s got better suspension as standard. I’d like the c63 to ride as well

I’m open minded about spending a decent amount on the suspension. I love the car and don’t want to change it anytime soon so happy to pay up to get what I want on an otherwise ace car

What I don’t want is firmness for firmness sake and I don’t particulalry want it lowered

Any advice on where to start?

[anonymous-user]

Intrax can build a set with ARC, this is absolutely brilliant for compliance and control. Bilstein have a few options and are also high quality units. I’d start by contacting those two and see what you think.

For me, the ARC setup is very good, tamed my car (no mean feat) and I was able to talk to the actual engineers about exactly what I wanted, rather than an off the shelf solution.