Re: Sport Suspension (archive)

The sport suspension consists of stiffer springs, struts, and shocks and fatter sway bars. I recently switched my 95 318ti over to the sport springs, struts, and shocks at about 92k miles. I got everything new from a BMW dealer with a 25% discount. It cost just over $800 for the springs and shocks/struts. I also replaced the rear upper shock mounts and upper strut bearings. I also replaced the front bump stops since they are shorter on the sport suspension. The sport suspension is about a half inch lower than non-sport. I chose to do this upgrade because I did not like the floaty feeling on the highway and the body roll in the corners was getting scary. With the sport suspension the car is not as floaty, but you will feel the small bumps a little more but I don't consider it harsh. The body roll has been tamed quite a bit, even without changing the sway bars. I am still using the 15 inch wheels. The shocks weren't completely gone, but they seemed a bit less controlled than they were when new. The difference between sport and non-sport is quite noticable.

Changing to larger wheels and tires with the non-sport suspension is not a good idea. You will just end up with more tire than the suspension can handle. Tramlining will most likely be a problem. The larger wheels and tires will be heavier than the original ones and the suspension won't be able to control the additional weight.

What exactly don't you like about the handling? Is it the body roll? You might want to consider finding a set of used sport sway bars. This should help the body roll a bit. You might also try to find some used springs, but the part number for the springs depends on the option package on the car. I have been told this is to compensate for the difference in weight and is only done to keep the ride height constant between cars with different option packages. The dealer uses a "spring table" on their computer where they input the options and get back a spring part number.

: I have a 1996 328iA with 71K miles. It did not come with the sport package and has the 15 inch wheels. What does the sport suspension consist of, and where is the best place to purchase the parts. How many miles before the OEM shocks wear out. I do not want a harsh ride, just better handling. Will just changing to larger wheels and tires help or the suspension pieces. I am on a limited budget and prefer to change one thing at a time. Thanks

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