1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Dean is on target about making sure you know what you're getting, as I learned with my 1995 Jetta GLX. The stock suspension tuning was, to be charitable, like a Buick. (Some have made analogies to lifeboats and buses.) I live in downtown Philly, so I didn't want a punishing ride, just a major float reduction. I therefore called the nearest Neuspeed dealer to get their SoftSport springs, which are designed to improve handling without too much ride penalty. The dealer, for some reason, talked me out of them, saying that new G2 springs from Germany were "better," even considering the tough Philly roads.
So, we bought them. They were so tight that they overpowered the stock shocks, and would send my head into the headliner over even moderate bumps. I felt like I was riding a pogo stick. This led me to buy Bilstein shocks with a rebound rate that could handle the springs. This improved matters considerably, but the ride was still fairly harsh, and my back hurt after extended drives. (This is one reason I bought a 9-5 Aero last year.) The handling dynamics were fantastic, but at far too great a ride penalty. (Bouncing around over undulations isn't great for handling either!)
Well, these brutal springs have now overpowered the rear Bilsteins, which are leaking. I think they are also responsible for two tire failures. I have therefore finally ordered the SoftSports, with new Bilsteins for the rear (the HDs), so the set up should work properly. In then end, we will have spent over $1,500 on springs, shocks, tires, and installation on a car that's worth only about $6,000.
The point is that you can pay serious money for suspension modifications, and end up worse off. You should try to test whatever you consider, and examine the return policy carefully. The Aero suspension, in my view, strikes a fine ride/handling balance, even on rough roads. I wouldn't want it much tighter, but some body roll reduction would be nice.
Good luck!
posted by 147.31...
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